How to Use Your Aetna Benefits for Therapy in Los Angeles

If you have Aetna insurance and you're looking for a therapist in Los Angeles, you're in luck. Elite Psychology Group is in-network with Aetna, serving clients throughout LA County from Santa Monica to Pasadena.

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Here's what you need to know about using your Aetna mental health benefits in Los Angeles.

What Does Aetna Cover for Therapy in Los Angeles?

Aetna covers individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, and psychological testing. Most plans include:

Your Cost:

• Copay: $10-$50 per session (fixed amount)
• Coinsurance: Varies based on plan after deductible
• Deductible: Amount you pay before insurance coverage begins

Mental health services are essential health benefits under the ACA, meaning Aetna covers them at the same level as physical health services.

Step 1: Verify Your Aetna Coverage

Call Aetna (number on your card) and ask:

• What's my copay/coinsurance for therapy?
• Have I met my deductible?
• How many sessions are covered?
• Do I need prior authorization?

Or let us verify for you. Give us your insurance info and we'll confirm your exact coverage before your first session—no surprises.

Step 2: Choose an Aetna In-Network Therapist in LA

Elite Psychology Group accepts most Aetna plans including:

• Aetna PPO
• Aetna HMO
• Aetna Open Access
• Aetna Medicare Advantage

Why In-Network Saves You Money:Out-of-network therapists cost 2-3x more and require you to file claims yourself. In-network providers like us bill Aetna directly and charge only your copay.

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Finding Your Therapist:All our Los Angeles therapistss are licensed in California or being supervised and accuring hours towards licensure and specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship therapy, and life transitions. Browse our provider bios to find the right fit.

Step 3: Schedule Your First Session

What to Bring:

• Aetna insurance card
• Photo ID
• Payment for copay

Your first session is 50-60 minutes. We'll collect insurance info and your copay up front, then you can focus on what matters—your mental health.

How Billing Works

1. You attend your session and pay your copay
2. We bill Aetna directly
3. Aetna processes the claim (2-4 weeks)
4. You receive an Explanation of Benefits showing coverage

No surprise bills. To bill insurance, we provide a diagnosis code—standard practice we'll discuss with you. Your sessions remain confidential under HIPAA.

Common Questions About Aetna Therapy in LA

Do I need a referral?Most Aetna plans don't require a referral. Some HMO plans might—we can verify.

What if I haven't met my deductible?You'll pay the full session rate until you reach it, then only your copay.

Does Aetna cover telehealth?Yes, at the same rate as in-person sessions.

Can I switch therapists?Absolutely. We can connect you with another team member if the first isn't the right fit.

When to Consider Private Pay

Some clients choose to pay out-of-pocket for:

• Complete privacy (no diagnosis in medical records)
• Longer or more frequent sessions
• Specialized services like executive coaching

We can discuss sliding scale options or out-of-network reimbursement if cost is a concern.

Maximize Your Aetna Benefits

Employee Assistance Program: Many Aetna plans include additional EAP sessions and crisis support.

Preventive Care: You don't need to be in crisis. Use therapy for stress management and personal growth.

Family Coverage: Family members on your plan have mental health benefits too.

Ready to Start Therapy with Aetna in LA?

Get started in 3 steps:

1. Contact us for a free consultation
2. We'll verify your Aetna benefits
3. Schedule with one of our LA psychologists

Elite Psychology Group accepts Aetna insurance throughout Los Angeles County and California. We offer therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and more—both in-person and via telehealth.

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Contact Elite Psychology Group today to use your Aetna benefits.

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