Insurance coverage for couples therapy can vary widely depending on your individual plan, insurance provider, and the reason for seeking therapy. In general, insurance is more likely to cover couples therapy if it is considered “medically necessary” — that is, if one of the partners has a diagnosed mental health condition that the therapy is intended to treat.
When couples therapy is covered by insurance:
There is a mental health diagnosis. For example, if one partner is dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or another behavioral health issue, and the couples therapy is focused on addressing how that condition impacts the relationship.
The therapy is billed under a valid CPT code, such as:
- 90847: Family or couples therapy with the patient present
- 90846: Family therapy without the patient present
The provider is in-network with your insurance, and the therapist is licensed and credentialed.
When couples therapy is not covered:
- If you’re seeking therapy only for communication issues, conflict resolution, or relationship enrichment without a diagnosable condition.
- If the therapy is not considered part of a larger mental health treatment plan.
- If the therapist is out-of-network or not recognized by your insurance company.
How to find out if your plan covers couples therapy:
- Call your insurance provider and ask:
- “Do you cover couples or family therapy sessions?”
- “Is CPT code 90847 covered under my plan?”
- “Do I need a mental health diagnosis for coverage?”
2. Check your insurance portal for behavioral or mental health benefits.
3. Ask your therapist or clinic to help with insurance verification — many clinics will check your benefits before your first session.
Key Takeaway
Insurance may cover couples therapy if it’s part of a mental health treatment plan and meets medical necessity guidelines. Always verify with your insurance provider or therapist before beginning sessions.