Find a Medicare Therapist
Medically reviewed by Gabriela Asturias, MD on June 24, 2024Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage now cover more mental-health professionals than ever—psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical social workers, and, as of 2024, licensed professional counselors and marriage-and-family therapists. In this guide you will learn how to find therapists that take Medicare, understand today’s Medicare mental health coverage, and connect with virtual or in-home options while you wait.
How Medicare Mental-Health Coverage Works
| Part | What It Covers | Typical Cost* |
|---|---|---|
| Part A | Inpatient psychiatric hospital or general hospital stays | Standard Part A inpatient costs |
| Part B | Outpatient therapy, diagnostic testing, medication management | 20 % of Medicare-approved amount after the Part B deductible ($257 in 2025). |
| Part D | Prescription drugs (antidepressants, mood stabilizers) | Plan-specific copay/coinsurance |
| Medicare Advantage (Part C) | Must cover everything A & B cover; many add $0 teletherapy copays | Varies by plan |
*Medigap policies or Medicaid (for dual-eligibles) can pay the 20 % Part B coinsurance.
Key Coverage Facts:
- Unlimited medically necessary visits. Medicare sets no annual cap on outpatient therapy sessions.
- Expanded provider list. Since January 1, 2024, Medicare pays licensed counselors and marriage-and-family therapists directly, alongside psychologists and clinical social workers.
- Telehealth through at least CY 2025. Congress extended pandemic-era telehealth flexibilities; all Part B-eligible clinicians may keep treating patients from any location through September 30, 2025. Starting October 1, 2025, most telehealth will again require you to be in a medical facility—unless new legislation intervenes.
Medicare Mental-Health Provider Types
| Provider Type | Typical Role |
|---|---|
| Medicare Therapist / Counselor (LPCC, LMFT, LCSW) | Weekly talk therapy, coping skills, family sessions |
| Medicare Psychologist (PhD, PsyD) | Psychological testing, trauma-focused or specialty modalities |
| Medicare Psychiatrist (MD/DO) | Diagnosis, medication management, complex cases |
Real-Life Use Case: How Walter Found a Therapist That Accepts Medicare
Walter, a 68-year-old semi-retired truck driver in Columbus, noticed creeping anxiety and insomnia. Here’s how he moved from symptoms to treatment in 15 days:
Day 1 — Annual Wellness Visit Walter tells his primary-care doctor about his mood. The doctor adds a brief depression screening (free once per year).
Day 1 — Referral & Directory The doctor prints a list of therapists that take Medicare within 20 miles and reminds Walter that referral paperwork isn’t required—but can speed scheduling.
Day 2 — Phone Calls Walter calls three names. Two have openings next month; one, Susan Lee, LPCC, offers a telehealth slot in 13 days.
Day 13 — First Session After meeting his deductible earlier in the year, Walter pays 20 % of the Medicare-approved rate—$30.80 for a 45-minute visit.
Day 14 — Medication Check Susan suggests a low-dose SSRI. Walter schedules a 30-minute video consult with a Medicare psychiatrist through his Part D plan’s telehealth partner.
Step-by-Step: Booking Outpatient Therapy Under Medicare
Verify Your Coverage: Original Medicare: no networks—see any clinician who “accepts assignment.” Medicare Advantage: use the plan’s online directory to avoid out-of-network costs.
Run the Medicare.gov Care Finder (or your MA plan’s portal). Enter your ZIP code, select “mental health,” then filter for language, specialty, telehealth, or wheelchair access if needed.
Confirm the Clinician Accepts Medicare. Look for “Participating” (takes assignment) or “Non-participating” (can charge up to 15 % more). For the lowest cost, make sure to stick to participating whenever possible.
Check the Cost. Expect 20 % coinsurance after the deductible—or less if you have a Medigap policy, Medicaid, or a zero-dollar Advantage copay.
Schedule Your First Visit. Ask about paperwork, telehealth setup, and cancellation policy.
Bridge the Gap While You Wait. Use free Part B services—yearly depression screening, alcohol-misuse counseling—or tap Advantage-plan perks like SilverSneakers Mindful Movement classes.
Find care for Medicare
Remember, recovery is possible. With early intervention, a supportive network, and the right professional care, you can overcome the challenges of Medicare and build a fulfilling life. We are here to help you find care.
