Key Takeaways

• In 2025, Medicare expands mental health services with broader provider access, permanent telehealth options, and new cost protections.

• You may now receive therapy from a wider range of professionals, including mental health counselors and marriage and family therapists, under Medicare Part B.

Therapy Is No Longer Out of Reach Under Medicare

Mental health treatment is not a luxury. It is a necessity, especially as you age and face life’s many transitions. Medicare recognizes this more clearly in 2025 than ever before. If you’ve been putting off therapy because you weren’t sure what Medicare would cover or feared high costs, now may be the time to reconsider.

Let’s walk through what’s changed, what you’re entitled to, and how you can take your first step toward better emotional and mental well-being.

Medicare Covers More Mental Health Services Than You May Realize

Medicare provides mental health coverage through multiple parts:

• Part A helps cover inpatient psychiatric hospital stays.

• Part B helps cover outpatient services like counseling, therapy, and evaluations.

• Part D helps cover prescription drugs, including those for mental health conditions.

Here’s how each part supports your access to care:

Inpatient Care Under Part A

Medicare Part A covers inpatient mental health treatment in either a general hospital or a psychiatric hospital. However, psychiatric hospital care is limited to 190 lifetime days. You’ll also be responsible for the usual Part A deductible and daily coinsurance after 60 days.

Outpatient Care Under Part B

Part B is your gateway to therapy, counseling, and many outpatient treatments. In 2025, you can expect the following services to be covered:

• Individual and group therapy sessions

• Diagnostic evaluations

• Medication management

• Partial hospitalization programs (PHP)

• Intensive outpatient programs (IOP)

• Telehealth-based therapy sessions

• Preventive depression screenings once a year

You typically pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after meeting the Part B deductible, which is $257 in 2025.

Prescription Drug Support Under Part D

Mental health treatment often includes medication. Part D plans help cover drugs prescribed by your doctor or psychiatrist. In 2025, there is a $2,000 annual cap on out-of-pocket drug costs, which helps control expenses for those managing chronic conditions.

New in 2025: Licensed Counselors and Therapists Now Covered

A major development in 2025 is the inclusion of licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs) and licensed mental health counselors (MHCs) as eligible Medicare providers. These professionals often serve as the backbone of outpatient mental health care, and their inclusion fills a longstanding gap in Medicare services.

You are now allowed to receive therapy sessions from these qualified professionals under Part B, just like you would with a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist. This change improves access, particularly in rural or underserved areas where other mental health professionals may be scarce.

Permanent Telehealth Access for Mental Health Services

Medicare’s temporary expansion of telehealth during the COVID-19 public health emergency has become permanent for mental health services. You can now receive:

• Therapy sessions over video calls

• Some services over audio-only calls if video is not feasible

• Evaluations, medication management, and follow-ups virtually

One requirement begins on October 1, 2025: You must see your mental health provider in person at least once every 12 months to continue receiving telehealth-based services, unless you qualify for an exception based on hardship or distance.

Telehealth remains a lifeline for many, especially those with mobility issues or transportation barriers.

What About Intensive Support? Options Beyond Traditional Therapy

Medicare also supports more structured programs for those needing higher levels of care:

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)

These programs provide hospital-level therapy during the day while allowing you to return home at night. Covered services may include:

• Individual and group therapy

• Family counseling

• Activity therapies

• Medication management

Part B covers these services, and you pay coinsurance after meeting the deductible.

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)

IOPs offer a step down from PHP. You typically attend therapy multiple times per week but maintain your daily routine otherwise. In 2025, IOPs are fully recognized and covered under Medicare Part B.

These programs are ideal if you need more support than weekly sessions but don’t require inpatient hospitalization.

Preventive Screenings Are Available, Too

If you aren’t sure whether you’re dealing with a mental health condition, Medicare allows you to get screened without needing a formal diagnosis:

• Annual depression screening: Covered once every 12 months with no out-of-pocket cost if performed in a primary care setting.

• Substance use assessment: Covered under Part B as part of behavioral counseling.

These screenings are designed to identify symptoms early and connect you with appropriate services.

What You Will Pay in 2025

Understanding costs is critical before beginning any care. While Medicare provides broad coverage, you’re still responsible for some expenses.

Here’s what to expect:

• Part B premium: $185 per month (standard amount in 2025)

• Annual Part B deductible: $257

• Coinsurance for outpatient services: 20% of the Medicare-approved amount

• Part D prescription drug cap: $2,000 per year

Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer lower cost-sharing, but specifics vary and must be reviewed individually. You should also verify whether your chosen provider accepts Medicare assignment.

Finding a Mental Health Provider Who Accepts Medicare

One challenge many face is finding a therapist or counselor who participates in Medicare. Here are tips to help you find one:

• Use Medicare’s online Physician Compare tool to search for mental health providers in your area.

• Contact local community health centers or behavioral health clinics.

• Ask your primary care doctor for a referral.

• Consider telehealth options if local providers are unavailable.

Remember: In 2025, your provider can include psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, clinical social workers, LMFTs, and MHCs.

If You’re New to Therapy, Here’s What to Expect

Starting therapy can feel intimidating. But understanding the process helps ease concerns.

1. Initial evaluation: Your therapist will ask about your medical history, symptoms, and goals.

2. Diagnosis and treatment plan: You’ll work together to identify areas of concern and strategies to address them.

3. Regular sessions: Typically once per week, but it may vary based on your needs and treatment plan.

4. Medication (if needed): A psychiatrist or your primary doctor may prescribe medications, which are covered under Part D.

The goal of therapy is to help you manage symptoms, improve coping skills, and enhance your overall quality of life.

Your Rights Under Medicare Mental Health Coverage

You have specific protections when receiving mental health services under Medicare:

• Access to covered services: You’re entitled to receive all medically necessary mental health services.

• Privacy protections: Your therapy sessions are confidential, just like any other medical treatment.

• Appeal rights: If Medicare denies a service or claim, you can file an appeal.

• Non-discrimination: Providers may not deny care based on your age, mental health diagnosis, or Medicare status.

These rights help ensure fair, consistent treatment no matter where you seek care.

How to Get Started

Ready to take the first step?

• Check your coverage: Review your Medicare Summary Notice or plan documents.

• Find a provider: Use Medicare’s search tools or speak with your doctor.

• Schedule an evaluation: This first appointment will help you build a path toward better mental health.

• Keep records: Track your appointments, services received, and any costs you incur.

Taking the first step can be the hardest part. But once you begin, you’ll likely find therapy a valuable part of your health journey.

There’s No Better Time to Start Therapy Than Now

Medicare has made meaningful progress in making mental health care more accessible, more affordable, and more comprehensive in 2025. Whether you’ve been dealing with long-standing issues or are just beginning to notice signs of depression, anxiety, or stress, you now have real options.

Don’t wait. Connect with the support you need today. Speak with a licensed agent listed on this website to explore your coverage, review provider availability, and ensure you make the most of the mental health services Medicare now offers.