Mental Health and Psychiatric Coverage Under COBRA

  1. Knowledge Base
  2. Starting COBRA
  3. Covered Service: Psychiatric Visits
I have regular appointments with my psychologist. Is behavioral health covered under COBRA?

Yes. COBRA continuation coverage includes the same benefits as the health plan you had with your employer. Under the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA), large group health plans for employers with 50 or more employees must provide mental health and substance use disorder benefits that are no more restrictive than benefits for medical and surgical care.

This means COBRA coverage will include mental health services at the same level as your original plan.

Examples of Mental Health Services Covered by COBRA

  • Individual therapy and counseling sessions
  • Psychiatric evaluations and medication management
  • Group therapy programs
  • Inpatient mental health treatment
  • Outpatient substance use disorder treatment
  • Telehealth mental health appointments

Enroll on Time

You have 60 days from the date you lose employer-sponsored health insurance to elect COBRA coverage. Enrolling within this period ensures there is no gap in your mental health or other health benefits.