What NYS Insurance Companies Cover Licensed Creative Art Therapy?

Lets explore which NYS insurance providers cover licensed creative art therapy, the importance of verifying individual policies, and how to make sure your sessions are covered.

What is Licensed Creative Art Therapy (LCAT)?

Licensed Creative Art Therapy (LCAT) is a form of therapy that uses artistic mediums like drawing, painting, music, and dance to help individuals express emotions, explore personal issues, and foster healing. Creative art therapists are licensed professionals in New York State (NYS), and they provide invaluable support for individuals dealing with mental health issues, trauma, stress, and more. However, for many potential clients, the primary question is: "Which insurance companies in New York State cover creative art therapy?"

Which insurance companies in New York State cover creative art therapy

Several insurance providers in New York State may cover creative art therapy services as part of their mental health benefits. Here's a list of some companies known for their mental health coverage that may include LCAT:

1. Aetna

Aetna offers mental health coverage, which often includes therapies provided by licensed creative art therapists. Coverage may vary based on whether the therapist is in-network or out-of-network.

2. BlueCross BlueShield (Empire BCBS)

Empire BCBS provides comprehensive mental health benefits, and creative art therapy can fall under their mental health services if provided by an in-network licensed therapist. Policyholders should verify coverage based on their specific plan.

3. Cigna

Cigna covers a wide range of mental health services, and creative art therapy may be included. Coverage typically depends on the specific plan and the network status of the therapist.

4. UnitedHealthcare (UHC)

UHC covers behavioral health services, including therapy provided by licensed creative art therapists. Telehealth options may also be available, depending on the plan.

5. Fidelis Care

Fidelis Care, part of the NY State of Health Marketplace, includes mental health services in many of its plans. Creative art therapy may be covered, but policyholders should confirm the details with their plan.

6. MVP Health Care

MVP Health Care offers mental health benefits, and creative art therapy may be covered if provided by an in-network therapist. It's important to check plan details to confirm this coverage.

7. Oscar Health

Oscar Health provides mental health coverage, and therapy sessions with licensed creative art therapists may be included. Oscar members should verify with their plan whether LCAT services are part of their coverage.

Understanding Creative Art Therapy Coverage

Before delving into specific insurance companies, it’s essential to understand that coverage for creative art therapy falls under mental health services. With the advent of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) and the Affordable Care Act (ACA), many insurance companies are required to provide mental health services on par with physical health services. This applies to New York State, where licensed creative art therapy is recognized as a mental health profession.

However, insurance coverage for LCAT services may vary based on the type of plan (e.g., HMO, PPO), the specific insurance provider, and the policyholder's benefits.

Verifying Creative Art Therapy Coverage: Steps to Take

While many NYS insurance companies provide coverage for LCAT services, it is crucial to verify whether creative art therapy is included in your specific plan. Follow these steps:

1. Check Your Policy: Review your insurance policy documents, paying close attention to the section on mental health services. Look for terms like "behavioral health" or "mental health benefits."
2. Call the Insurance Provider: Contact your insurance company directly and ask whether your policy covers sessions with a licensed creative art therapist.
3. In-Network vs. Out-of-Network: Ensure that your chosen therapist is part of your insurer’s network. In-network services typically cost less than out-of-network services.
4. Get Pre-Authorization: Some insurance plans may require pre-authorization for mental health services. Make sure to secure any necessary approvals before starting therapy.

What to Do If Creative Art Therapy Isn't Covered

If you discover that your insurance plan doesn’t cover licensed creative art therapy, there are still options:

1. Out-of-Pocket Payment: While paying out of pocket can be costly, some therapists offer sliding scale fees based on income.
2. Look for Grants or Sliding Scale Therapists: Some therapists offer reduced rates or work with organizations that provide grants to help cover therapy costs.
3. Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA): If you have an HSA or FSA, you may be able to use these funds to pay for creative art therapy sessions.

FAQs: NYS Insurance Coverage for Licensed Creative Art Therapy

What is Licensed Creative Art Therapy (LCAT)? 

Licensed Creative Art Therapy (LCAT) is a form of therapy that uses various artistic mediums, such as drawing, painting, music, dance, or drama, to help individuals express emotions, work through trauma, and address mental health issues. It is conducted by a licensed creative art therapist who is certified to practice in New York State.

Does my insurance cover Licensed Creative Art Therapy in New York State? 

Many insurance providers in New York State offer mental health coverage, which can include LCAT services. Coverage typically depends on the specific insurance plan you have, whether the therapist is in-network, and the details of your mental health benefits. It is recommended to review your policy or contact your insurance provider directly to confirm coverage.

Which insurance companies in New York State cover creative art therapy? 

Several NYS insurance companies may cover licensed creative art therapy as part of their mental health services, including:

1. Aetna
2. BlueCross BlueShield (Empire BCBS)
3. Cigna
4. UnitedHealthcare (UHC)
5. Fidelis Care
6. MVP Health Care
7. Oscar Health

Be sure to verify coverage with your specific plan.

How can I confirm if my plan covers creative art therapy? 

To confirm if your insurance plan covers creative art therapy:

1. Review your policy documents, focusing on mental health services.
2. Call your insurance provider and ask about coverage for sessions with a licensed creative art therapist.
3. Check whether the therapist is in-network for your insurance company.

What if my insurance doesn’t cover creative art therapy?

If your insurance plan doesn’t cover creative art therapy, you have options:

1. Pay out of pocket: Some therapists offer sliding scale fees based on income.
2. Use an HSA/FSA: Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) may allow you to pay for therapy.
3. Search for therapists offering grants or reduced rates for those without insurance coverage.

Is pre-authorization required for creative art therapy sessions? 

Some insurance plans may require pre-authorization before covering mental health services, including creative art therapy. Check with your insurance provider to determine if pre-authorization is necessary for your plan.

Can I see an out-of-network therapist for creative art therapy? 

Many insurance companies allow you to see out-of-network therapists but may reimburse you at a lower rate, meaning you’ll pay more out of pocket. Contact your insurance provider to understand your options for out-of-network coverage and associated costs.

Are telehealth creative art therapy sessions covered by insurance? 

Some insurance plans may cover telehealth sessions for creative art therapy, particularly in light of the increased use of remote therapy options. Verify with your insurance provider whether telehealth therapy sessions are included in your coverage.

How much does creative art therapy cost without insurance? 

The cost of creative art therapy without insurance varies depending on the therapist’s fees, location, and session length. On average, sessions can range from $75 to $200 per session. However, many therapists offer sliding scale fees or payment plans.

Can children receive creative art therapy under insurance coverage? 

Yes, children can benefit from creative art therapy, and insurance plans that cover mental health services often extend these benefits to child therapy sessions. Be sure to confirm with your insurance provider whether children's creative art therapy is included in your plan.

Conclusion

Creative art therapy can be a powerful tool for mental health and personal growth, and many NYS insurance companies recognize its value by covering it under their mental health benefits. If you’re considering licensed creative art therapy, it’s essential to review your specific insurance policy and verify coverage directly with your provider. Whether through in-network therapists or out-of-network options, access to creative art therapy is possible with the right insurance plan and a little bit of research.

By taking the time to explore your coverage options, you can focus on getting the creative support you need for your mental health journey.