Does Medicare Cover Online Therapy?

Original Medicare Part B covers outpatient mental health services, and that includes telehealth sessions delivered by phone or video. Covered services include individual therapy with a licensed therapist, group therapy, and psychiatric evaluations. To bill Medicare, your therapist must be enrolled with Medicare as a participating provider.

Total Life therapists are enrolled with Medicare and handle all billing on your behalf. You never need to file a claim or navigate the paperwork. We confirm your exact coverage before your first session so there are no surprises.

Medicare Part B pays 80 percent of the Medicare-approved amount for covered mental health services after you meet your annual Part B deductible. In 2026, that deductible is $240. Once it is met, Medicare pays 80 percent and you are responsible for the remaining 20 percent.

If you have a Medigap supplemental plan, it typically covers the remaining 20 percent, meaning your out-of-pocket cost is $0. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, your copay is often $0 or a low fixed amount per session. Most Total Life patients pay nothing out of pocket.

Yes. Following permanent telehealth expansions, Medicare covers audio-only (phone) sessions for mental health services. You do not need a smartphone, a computer, or any video capability. A standard phone call is sufficient. This removes one of the biggest barriers for older adults who are not comfortable with video technology or who have limited mobility.

All Total Life therapists are available by phone. You can choose phone or video for every session, and you can switch between them at any time.

The fastest way to find a Medicare-enrolled therapist is through Total Life. You answer a few questions about what you are looking for, we verify your Medicare or insurance plan at no cost, and you are matched with a licensed therapist within 48 hours. There is no directory to search, no phone tag, and no waiting weeks for an opening.

For a full overview of how to navigate therapist options and what questions to ask, see our guide: Find a Licensed Therapist That Accepts Medicare.

Most Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans cover outpatient mental health therapy, often with a $0 or low copay per session. Coverage details vary by plan and carrier. To confirm your exact benefits, check your plan's Summary of Benefits or call the member services number on your insurance card.

Total Life accepts most Medicare Advantage plans, including Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna HealthSpring, Magellan, and SCAN. We verify your specific plan before your first session.