Where do I start?
When should I expect to feel better?
Everyone’s mental health journey is different, and so is the time each person may take to feel better. Don’t worry if it takes you longer than someone else, or if you only use our services for a few months! What’s more important is that you are finding the care just right for you. That much to say, therapy can be an eye-opening, vulnerable experience for many, but all of this is just a part of the process of growing into a happier, healthier self. To make this process easier, some of our profeSome readersHow does confidentiality work?
Other than your provider, nobody has the right to information about your meetings, and attending meetings does not have to be disclosed to anyone, keeping your journey private and safe. If you or someone else wants access to your treatment or records, you will have to sign a release of information form first, which your provider will give and help you fill out. It is important to note, however, that there are few instances in which your provider will be legally obligated to break this confidenFew readersWho can prescribe medications?
Providers with prescribing certifications are: Psychiatrists Psychiatric nurses Clinical nurse specialists Primary care physicians Physician assistants Providers who are certified to prescribe medications may vary by state. For more assistance, please feel free to reach out to our Support Team at support@miresource.com.Few readersWhat should I say when contacting a provider by phone?
With several hundred providers — and even more clients just like you — be prepared to leave a voicemail. Make sure to include: Your name Your phone number and/or email address (repeat these slowly for clarity) Your payment options Times they can call you back A voicemail may look something like this: “Hi, my name is Name . I found your profile on MiResource and am interested in learning more about you and your practice. I plan to pay with payment method , but I’d love to speak wFew readersI’m under the age of 18, do I need parental consent to receive therapy?
Parental consent to therapy varies by state. To access a review of state laws regarding parental consent for therapy and other mental health treatment, visit the National Library of Medicine. For more assistance, feel free to reach out to our Support Team at support@miresource.com.Few readersWhat should I expect in my first session?
In your first session — commonly known as the intake session — your provider may start by going over forms with you, including confidentiality, cancellation or rescheduling policies, payment, and your history with mental health. Your provider should walk you through each step carefully so you fully understand all information before receiving treatment. After reviewing the forms, your provider will begin by asking questions about you, including: What made you seek treatment? What symptomsFew readersHow do I know if I should change providers?
Finding a provider that is supportive, trusting, and helps you reach your goals is a vital part of your successful mental health journey. While we host many qualified professionals for you to connect with, finding a good fit immediately doesn’t always happen. To determine if your provider best supports you, ask yourself these questions: Do I feel supported? Am I being heard and understood? Is my provider reliable? Am I progressing toward my goals? Am I given the tools to navigaFew readersIs remote therapy just as effective as face-to-face therapy?
Yes. Studies show no major differences between the two approaches, with both having success rates to similar degrees. That said, the success of your mental health journey through therapy is highly unique and dependent on the relationship between you and your provider, regardless of whether that is in-person or remote. For more assistance, please feel free to reach out to our Support Team at support@miresource.com.Few readersHow do I know if I need to see someone for my mental health?
Although everyone may struggle with their mental health at some point in their lives and overcome these hardships by utilizing their adapted coping strategies, this approach may not work as a long term solution. It is at this point where you may feel the need to get the help of a professional who is certified in strengthening your skills and ability to cope with overwhelming issues while offering new perspectives. For more assistance, feel free to reach out to our Support Team at support@miFew readersWho should I go to if I am looking for talk therapy?
Talk therapy — or psychotherapy — is a therapeutic technique derived from the conversations you have with your therapist. These therapists are trained in approaches related, but not limited, to: Marriage and family therapy Counseling Social work Psychiatry For more assistance, please feel free to reach out to our Support Team at support@miresource.com.Few readersHow long will I be in treatment?
Just as each person’s mental health journey is different, so is the treatment’s length of time. Ultimately, your treatment length is your own decision, although factors such as type of treatment, severity of concerns, comfortability with your provider, how often you meet, and other life events can greatly impact your time in therapy. Make sure to speak with your provider on your expectations on treatment length for the best approximation. And remember, even when you feel supported enough to taFew readersDo I need a diagnosis to receive care?
You do not need a medical diagnosis to receive care for therapeutic services. However, you can find out if your concerns meet the criteria for a diagnosis by speaking with any licensed mental health provider. For more assistance, please feel free to reach out to our Support Team at support@miresource.com.Few readersWhat should I write when contacting a provider by email?
When emailing a provider, make sure to include details such as: Your name Your phone number Your payment options An email to a provider may look something like this:Few readersIf I decided to use remote therapy, are the sites or apps secure?
Remote therapy should always be confidential due to their intake of personal information. Make sure to only use sites that comply with the Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act (HIPAA) and that allow you to verify your therapist’s identity. Although each platform may differ, each should generally allow you to message or text your provider, as well as speak on the phone or video conference for meetings. For more assistance, please feel free to reach out to our Support Team at sFew readersShould I start with therapy or medication first?
As both methods prove effective for treating mental health concerns, what comes first for you all depends on what your provider recommends based on the specific concern you need help with, as some respond better to medications. However, many concerns respond well to only therapy too! Therapy is available for people who not only want to get better, but want to learn coping skills they can use in their everyday lives. Every situation is unique, and so is yours, so don’t feel like your treatment haFew readersShould I do in-person or remote care?
Congratulations! You are making your way through the first steps into your healing journey, and the initial one: picking physical or virtual care. While both show similarly positive effects, it is important you are able to attend your sessions and feel comfortable where you are when speaking with your provider. You may want to consider in-person care if: It helps you to pick up on body language and nonverbal cues when communicating You like office settings You would be enjoy setting asFew readers
General Insurance Terms
Types of Health Insurance Plans
Within the healthcare umbrella for insurance plans accessible to you, there are nine options available for you to utilize, each offering different benefits based upon your needs. We know, it can be daunting trying to figure out exactly which one to use. However, if receiving therapeutic care is new to you, figuring out what insurance plan works for you is an important part of the process. We recommend you look over the below options before and during your first session to affirm clarity on whichSome readersPayment assistance terms
Along with the many types of health insurance plans, there are also terms we recommend you come acquainted with during your process, as many of them could help you cover costs in some cases. You can also speak with your provider about which of these you would like to be a part of. Charity Care Programs Ensure that eligible and uninsured people can receive medical care, even if they cannot pay individually Only available for reasonable and necessary medical services for diagnoFew readersTypes of mental health providers
Caregiver Family members, as well as specially trained caregivers, who provide care through in-home assistance, community programs, and residential facilities to support everyday living. They allow for patients who need long-term care to be able to live in their homes and participate in their community. These individuals include, but are not limited to: family members, friends, social workers, teachers, psychologists, psychiatrists and mentors. Case Manager A mental health provider appFew readersWho offers insurance?
Although some providers may take a payment upfront, paying without any financial aid can add up to some nasty amounts! With insurance, you may encounter drastically lower prices for in-network providers, allowing you access to more sustainable treatment plans over time. During your first few sessions, we encourage you to speak with your provider about payment options, however you will be prompted by this question even during your initial search for your provider, as many accept different kinds oFew readersInsurance Terms you may want to know about
Signing with an insurance company and plan can be stressful! That’s why we at MiResource want to make sure you understand exactly what you are getting yourself into. Make sure to look for these terms when you start looking into insurance options; we encourage you to speak with your provider if there is something you need additional clarification on. Insurance Government or private agency agrees to pay part or all of a medical service You pay a monthly fee called a premiumFew readersQuestions to keep in mind when learning about your insurance benefits
Before locking down on an insurance plan, make sure you are asking yourself these questions: Does my insurance company cover mental health care services? Will I need a referral from my primary care physician to get insurance to cover my treatment? Do I need a precertification from my insurance company to receive mental health care? How many sessions per year does my health insurance cover? What is the coverage amount per therapy session? Will I have a deductible, copay or coinsurFew readersPaying Out-of-Pocket
With insurance, many services are accessible at discounted prices. However, you may need to pay high deductibles and/or premiums on top of copays or coinsurance that come out-of-pocket already. So what if you want to pay entirely out-of-pocket instead? For individuals who want to go this route instead, there are several options. Here are four: Out-of-Pocket You cover the full of cost of your care Payment goes directly to your provider Some providers only accept this kFew readers
Paying for My Care
Do I have to notify my insurance company when I move to a different address or state?
Depending on where you move, your insurance policy may change. If you move to a different state, it is very important that you notify your insurance company because you may need to switch to a new plan or a different company. You can follow these steps to update your address online. You can also call your insurance and talk to a representative. If you move within your state, your plan won’t change, it is only important for you to update your address in case you ever receive mail from your insuraSome readersIf I pay out of pocket, how do I get my insurance to reimburse this cost?
First, make sure your insurance covers these services. You want to make sure that the services that you are interested in getting reimbursed are within your benefits by checking your EOB. Furthermore, consider if these services are in-network or out-of-network. Some insurances will only cover in-network services, so it is important to check if your insurance also covers services from out-of-network providers. You can find this information on your insurance’s website or by calling and talkinSome readersCan I go to a mental health provider without clarifying with my insurance company that they will cover the cost?
Not all health insurance companies require pre-certification or a referral before seeing a mental health provider. However, there are many plans that do require you to have precertification or a referral from your PCP. Thus, it is important to check what benefits your insurance covers beforehand. For more assistance, please feel free to reach out to our Support Team at support@miresource.com.Few readersIn which cases is no payment needed?
Services for which no payment is needed are typically available from non-profits or charitable organizations that have therapists, psychologists, or psychiatrists who donate their time and see patients for no cost. Many colleges or universities offer services to students through a Counseling Center or Health Center that are covered by the fees they have already paid to the university. Additionally, there are free mental health apps that can serve as tools for therapy. For more assistance, pleasFew readersWhat is payment assistance?
If you need help paying for your mental healthcare, you can receive assistance to pay for your medical bills or render services for little to no cost. Various government and non-profit programs provide payment assistance that helps pay for an individual's healthcare. Some types include: ATR voucher, charity care programs, Federal or any government funding for substance abuse programs, grants from Nonprofit and Government Agencies, IHS/Tribal/Urban (ITU) funds, local assistance programs, state weFew readersHow do I get precertification for a service?
In most cases, your provider or hospital will request precertifications. In the event that you have to request it, you can request this online, via Fax, or by talking to a representative. Requests are prioritized based on medical necessity. Healthcare procedures, medications or services on the precertification list of your insurance plan can require you to notify or get a coverage determination. In the case of notification, you just have to file a form to record the healthcare service or proceduFew readersWhat is the difference between a Copay and Coinsurance?
Copays are flat-fees that you pay during a visit to a health provider or for prescription medications. Coinsurances are similar to copays, but instead of a flat-fee, you pay a percentage of the cost of service or prescription. For example, a 20% coinsurance for a $200 bill means you would pay $40. Each insurance plan will have an out-of-pocket maximum and that number will be the absolute maximum you will have to contribute annually and this includes copays and coinsurance fees along with deducFew readersWhat does it mean if a provider offers a sliding scale?
A provider that has a sliding scale offers a flexible fee system that varies with income. This means that the lower your income, the lower the fee you have to pay for your session. The amount you pay should not be reflected on the quality of care you receive and the time you have with the provider. Most times providers don’t even know how much you pay because their office personnel handle it separately. For more assistance, please feel free to reach out to our Support Team at support@miresourcFew readersWill my parents know I'm going to a mental health provider if I am on their insurance plan?
Mental health providers are required, by law, to keep your information confidential. However, if you are on your parent's insurance plan or if they receive your medical bills and statements, they might see some information (like the type of service and date) from the bill. Changing the address for the bills and statements or, if on their insurance, paying out-of-pocket for the full cost of the mental health service would ensure this information is kept private from your parents. For more assistFew readersWhat does it mean for a healthcare provider to be out-of-network?
Healthcare providers who are out-of-network are usually not covered by your health insurance policy. You will usually have to pay out-of-pocket for out-of-network providers. This payment is much higher than it would be if you had gone to an in-network provider. However, if your insurance company is a PPO or a POS, depending on their policy, the insurance would pay for some of the costs of out-of-network providers. For more assistance, please feel free to reach out to our Support Team at suppoFew readersDoes it matter what I use to pay for my services?
The method of payment you use to pay for your services depends on where you go for your mental healthcare. Most providers take debit/credit cards, cash, or check. Some mental health providers will allow you to use other modes of payment such as PayPal. You can also take out a loan in order to pay for your medical bills. For more assistance, please feel free to reach out to our Support Team at support@miresource.com.Few readersWill insurance cover all of my medications’ costs completely?
The amount you pay for medications is based on your insurance. Some medications have a copay, some are completely covered and some are not covered at all. There are several categories of medication: preferred, non-preferred, generic and name-brand. Each insurance plan has a Prescription Drug List (PDL), which includes preferred medications. Preferred medications have the best overall value, which is determined by your insurance and based on its effectiveness and safety. Within the PDL there areFew readersAre there any disadvantages of paying out-of-pocket?
Given that the biggest obstacle is an immediate expense, some mental health providers or centers offer reduced rates based on income or family size. To learn more about this, check out our Payment Assistance section. Mental Health Providers are free to set their own rates and offer a sliding scale when paying out-of-pocket. This can lead to paying even less than with insurance depending on where you fit in the sliding scale, duration of treatment, and details of the insurance plan. It is helpfulFew readersWho can receive payment assistance?
Qualifications for payment assistance are often based on income and need, according to the Federal Poverty Guideline. Payment assistance is for people who do not have insurance or who have insurance that does not cover their mental healthcare needs. For more assistance, please feel free to reach out to our Support Team at support@miresource.com.Few readersWhat if my insurance does not have any in-network providers in my area?
If your insurance does not have any in-network providers in your area you will have to go to an out-of-network provider. For more assistance, please feel free to reach out to our Support Team at support@miresource.com.Few readersIs there anything I can do to get my medication covered, if my insurance plan refused to cover it?
You can file for a drug exemption request. Generally, the process requires your doctor to write an explanation as to why the drug is appropriate for your medical condition. You must wait for the exception to be approved or denied. However, it is important to check with your insurance on their process for requesting a drug exemption because this varies by plan. For more assistance, please feel free to reach out to our Support Team at support@miresource.com.Few readersWhat are the first steps to pay with insurance?
Confused about how to pay for mental healthcare with your insurance? First, learn more about your coverage by following these steps: 1. Find your insurance card 2. Call your insurance company. The phone number is likely on the back of your card and may be listed under "behavioral health service" or "customer call". You can also go to our Insurance Company Directory to find your insurance company number. Keep in mind that some insurance companies are open 24/7 and others are only avFew readersIf I have insurance, how much will my appointments cost?
While appointments at your campus counselling centre can be covered completely, once they refer you to a provider outside of the campus centre, those appointments will either be covered by your insurance or you will have to pay out-of-pocket. The cost depends on the type of insurance plan you have and if your doctor is in-network or out-of-network. Usually, all you have to pay when you’re going to a provider covered by your insurance company is a set amount of money called a copay (around $15-35Few readersWhat are some of the advantages I have when I use insurance?
Insurance greatly reduces the amount of money you pay upfront for your doctor’s visits or medications. All insurance plans cover your healthcare from providers within their network, and some also cover out-of-network. Doctors in your insurance company’s network can give you services for little to no out-of-pocket costs. If your insurance has prescription benefits, it will also cover all or some of the medications that you need to get from the pharmacy. For example, a $300 prescription might costFew readersAre there any disadvantages to using insurance?
The disadvantages of using insurance depend on the type of insurance plan that you have. Unfortunately, your insurance won’t cover the cost of a visit with just any doctor. The most common disadvantage of using insurance is this network limitation, where most insurance companies–but not all–limit your coverage to in-network providers. Moreover, some insurance companies require you to get a referral from your primary care physician before you can go to specialists. Insurance companies may even lFew readersIf I have a mental illness diagnosis, can my insurance classify this as a preexisting condition and change my benefits?
You cannot be charged more or be refused coverage because you have a preexisting condition. Once you have insurance, the company cannot refuse to cover treatment on the basis of it being a preexisting condition. For more assistance, please feel free to reach out to our Support Team at support@miresource.com.Few readersWhat are some advantages of paying out-of-pocket?
An important consideration is the flexibility of paying out-of-pocket. You are not constrained to meet certain requirements (such as a referral from your primary care provider or condition/treatment coverage limits) to obtain care or have to fill out paperwork to get prior approval for care. You also have more freedom to choose the duration, focus, frequency, and treatment modality best suited to your needs. For more assistance, please feel free to reach out to our Support Team at support@mireFew readersHow do I know if my insurance covers mental healthcare?
To learn more about your insurance company’s policies, you can look at the website or call to talk to a representative. It’s important to know that some insurance companies outsource part of their mental health coverage to other companies. Again, you can look at the website or call to talk to a representative to find out if your insurance company outsources your mental health coverage. For more assistance, please feel free to reach out to our Support Team at support@miresource.com (mailto:suFew readers
Caring for you while you connect
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