About Insurance
There are two types of insurance common in the US today: (1) general indemnity insurance and (2) managed care (HMO's, PPO's, etc.) Nearly all managed care panels are represented by one or more professionals. To check on whether a particular therapy provider will be covered for payment, you should telephone your insurance company. The phone number is printed on your insurance card. At times, there is a separate number for mental health coverage. You usually do not need to go through your primary care physician.
NOTE: Many managed care panels offer "out-of-network" benefits, allowing you to choose your own therapist. Be sure to ask about this when you call your insurance company.