The Nexus Teen Academy editorial and clinical team is dedicated to providing informative and accurate content to help families who are struggling with adolescent behavioral health problems. The editorial team works directly with the clinical team to ensure information is accurate and up-to-date.
To do this, our team uses the following editorial guidelines:
We generally only cite government and peer-reviewed studies
Scientific claims and data are backed by qualified sources
Content is updated to ensure we are citing the most up-to-date data and information
Clinically reviewed by Executive Director Hannah Carr-Unquera, LPC
Executive Director Hannah Carr-Unquera, LPC
Hannah graduated from Arizona State University with her Bachelor’s in Psychology and Master’s in Counseling and is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona. She began her work as a therapist 12 years ago in South Phoenix with an intensive outpatient program for teens and their families. She joined Nexus in the residential program as the clinical director, eventually being promoted to the executive director, creating and building the clinical program structure and a strong culture focused on redirecting the trajectory of young lives.
The Nexus Teen Academy Editorial Staff is composed of writers, editors, and clinical reviewers with many years of experience writing about mental health and behavioral health treatment. Our team utilizes peer-reviewed, clinical studies from sources like SAMHSA to ensure we provide the most accurate and current information.
Art therapy for adolescents offers a creative outlet where teens can express themselves without the pressure of finding the “right” words. But an important question often arises: does insurance cover art therapy? The answer can be complicated, but let’s get a better understanding
At Nexus Teen Academy, we provide an easy process to help you verify your teenager’s treatment insurance coverage. In this article, we will discuss what you need to know about insurance coverage to make an informed decision for your teen.
If you need immediate help with your teenager, consider contacting our team today. Let us help you and your teen navigate the complex world of mental health.
Does Health Insurance Cover Art Therapy?
Mental health services, including therapy offerings like art therapy, have gained increased recognition in insurance policies over the years. Despite being considered a complementary therapy, art therapy offers vast benefits. It is perfect for teenagers who do not like sharing their thoughts verbally, as it encourages expression without speaking directly. This has made many insurance providers list it under mental health treatment services.
The Basics of Insurance Coverage for Mental Health Services
Most insurance plans, including private insurance, Medicaid, and Medicare, provide some form of mental health coverage. However, the extent of coverage varies depending on the provider and plan specifics.
Private Insurance Plans: They often include mental health services in their coverage. However, the type and level of coverage can differ based on whether the plan is an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) or PPO (Preferred Provider Organization).
Medicaid: This is a state and federally funded program. It offers mental health benefits, but eligibility and services depend on the state’s specific Medicaid policies.
Medicare: It is designed for individuals over 65 and certain disabled individuals. It also covers mental health services, though restrictions apply.
The Impact of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA)
Due to the rise of mental health treatment centers, The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) has been initiated. This program ensures that mental health benefits are on par with medical and surgical benefits in most insurance plans. However, this does not guarantee coverage for all types of therapy, including teen art therapy. It may be considered a complementary treatment rather than a primary one, therefore affecting its eligibility.
Factors That Affect Insurance Coverage for Art Therapy
Several factors determine whether an insurance plan will cover art therapy. This may include therapist credentials, state laws, and art therapy treatment classification.
Whether the Therapist is Licensed and Credentialed
One of the most significant factor is whether the therapist is licensed and credentialed. Many insurance companies only cover services provided by licensed professionals. Some states offer specific licensing for art therapists, which can increase the likelihood of coverage. If you enroll your teenager at our teen mental health treatment center, you will not have to worry about our staff’s credentials. Our licensed and experienced team makes us a convenient partner for your teenager art therapy coverage.
State-specific Insurance Laws and Policies
State-specific insurance laws and policies also impact coverage. Some states mandate mental health coverage, including various forms of therapy. Others, however, do not explicitly recognize art therapy.
Whether Art Therapy is Classified as a Primary or Complementary Treatment
Another key factor is whether art therapy is classified as a primary or complementary treatment. Insurance providers often cover traditional psychotherapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). However, they may consider art therapy as a complementary service rather than a standalone treatment. This can limit their coverage to your teenager’s treatment, regardless of the positive impacts on your teenager’s mental health.
Types of Insurance Plans That May Cover Art Therapy
Several types of insurance plans may provide coverage for art therapy, despite their coverage, the extent of service covered varies. Types of insurance that may cover art therapy include:
Employer-sponsored Health Insurance: Some employer-sponsored plans include mental health services. Depending on whether the insurance provider recognizes art therapy as a valid treatment, they may choose to provide coverage.
Private Insurance Plans: Unlike government-funded insurance like Medicaid, private insurance plans are offered by self-insured employers. Their coverage depends on whether the plan includes mental health benefits. Teen art therapy needs to be listed among the mental health care services covered for insurance to work.
Medicaid and State-funded Programs: Medicaid may cover art therapy if it is deemed medically necessary. However, their coverage may differ depending on your policy and state.
School-based Therapy Programs and Special Education Services: School-based therapy programs include services like Individualized Education Program (IEP). If your teenager meets the criteria, they may qualify for art therapy if it is deemed beneficial for their mental health and development.
How to Check If Your Insurance Covers Art Therapy
To determine whether your insurance provider covers teen art therapy, follow these steps:
Contact Your Insurance Provider: Call the customer service number on your insurance card and inquire about coverage for teen art therapy. Ensure you call at the right time and day of the week. Wednesday and Thursday are usually considered best for optimal contact rates.
Ask the Right Questions: Call prepared with the right questions to make the process easier and more efficient. Some of the questions you should ask are whether teen art therapy is covered and what the next process is if it’s not. If it is, let your provider clarify the cost covered and any copays or deductibles for teen art therapy services. If it is not covered, ask for the relevant documents you need for an insurance appeal.
Check Provider Networks: If your plan requires in-network providers, ensure that any art therapist you wish to see is within the network.
At Nexus Teen Academy, we offer parents an easy way to verify their insurance. Filling a couple of forms is all you need to ensure your teenagers get access to comprehensive and tailored treatment.
What to Do If Art Therapy Is Not Covered
If your insurance doesn’t cover art therapy, there are still ways to make it accessible. Many therapists offer out-of-pocket payment options. You will be required to pay for things like deductibles and any costs for health care not covered by your insurance provider. Depending on your income, you can work with your therapists to accept sliding scale fees. These fees are usually determined by how much you make to ensure treatment remains accessible and affordable to most parents.
You can also consider getting funding for nonprofits or organizations dealing with teen mental health. Some nonprofits and mental health organizations offer grants or subsidized therapy programs. Schools, community, and religious centers may offer free or low-cost art therapy sessions for students or community members. Additionally, you can check with local universities that offer therapy programs, their graduate students often provide services at a reduced rate under supervision.
If you still can’t afford therapy for your teenager, even after weighing all of the options, consider self-guided art therapy techniques. There are a lot of resources online that your teenager can use to practice various art therapy activities. They can join groups or art communities focused on bettering teenagers’ mental health. While these communities do not replace professional art therapy, attempting art therapy ideas at home can still offer emotional and creative support.
How to Advocate for Art Therapy Coverage
Most insurance providers cover wide treatment options, including creative and experiential therapies like psychodrama. However, not all insurance does, and yours could be one of them. Instead of giving up on the treatment option, you can take steps to appeal for art therapy coverage. Consider advocating for your teen’s art coverage by:
Request an Exception or Appeal: If your insurance denies coverage, you can file an appeal or request an exception. This process often requires documentation from a licensed healthcare provider, and at Nexus, we can help you with the relevant documentation.
Get a Referral from a Doctor or Licensed Therapist: Consider getting a doctor’s referral stating that art therapy is necessary for your teenager’s condition. This can increase the chances of your insurance provider approving your request.
Write a Letter of Medical Necessity: Your therapist or doctor can draft a letter detailing why art therapy is crucial to your teenager’s treatment. They can also detail how the therapy would benefit your teenager compared to other traditional therapies.
Teen Art Therapy at Nexus Teen Academy
At Nexus Teen Academy, we have a team of professional and licensed mental health providers ready to attend to your teenager’s needs. Our treatment center offers art therapy sessions to ensure your teenager gets the best tailored and comprehensive treatment without breaking the bank.
We also offer a streamlined process of verifying whether your insurance covers teen art therapy treatment. This process is free of charge, making us your number one choice for affordable, tailored, and comprehensive treatment.
If you are considering enrolling your teen in art therapy, pleasecontact us. Book an appointment with our team to learn how art therapy can help them process their emotions and learn positive coping skills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What types of insurance plans are more likely to cover art therapy?
Insurance plans that cover mental health services, such as PPOs and some HMOs, are more likely to include art therapy, especially if provided by a licensed therapist.
Can I get reimbursed for out-of-pocket art therapy expenses?
You may get reimbursed if your plan covers art therapy. Check with your provider for eligibility and required documentation.
Does insurance cover online art therapy sessions?
Some insurers cover online art therapy if a licensed provider conducts it and meets telehealth guidelines.
Can I use a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for art therapy?
If deemed a qualified medical expense, HSA and FSA funds can be used for art therapy.
Executive Director Hannah Carr-Unquera, LPC and Nexus Teen Academy
Five honest questions. You’ll get a clear read on where things stand, and a licensed counselor can walk you through the next step. Private, no obligation.
Your reading
Here’s where things stand
If your teen is in immediate danger, call or text 988 or 911 now.
Does Insurance cover Art Therapy?
FACT CHECKED
The Nexus Teen Academy editorial and clinical team is dedicated to providing informative and accurate content to help families who are struggling with adolescent behavioral health problems. The editorial team works directly with the clinical team to ensure information is accurate and up-to-date.
To do this, our team uses the following editorial guidelines:
Clinically reviewed by Executive Director Hannah Carr-Unquera, LPC
Executive Director Hannah Carr-Unquera, LPC
Hannah graduated from Arizona State University with her Bachelor’s in Psychology and Master’s in Counseling and is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona. She began her work as a therapist 12 years ago in South Phoenix with an intensive outpatient program for teens and their families. She joined Nexus in the residential program as the clinical director, eventually being promoted to the executive director, creating and building the clinical program structure and a strong culture focused on redirecting the trajectory of young lives.
Published By Nexus Teen Academy
Nexus Teen Academy
The Nexus Teen Academy Editorial Staff is composed of writers, editors, and clinical reviewers with many years of experience writing about mental health and behavioral health treatment. Our team utilizes peer-reviewed, clinical studies from sources like SAMHSA to ensure we provide the most accurate and current information.
Published On May 10, 2025
Table of Contents
Art therapy for adolescents offers a creative outlet where teens can express themselves without the pressure of finding the “right” words. But an important question often arises: does insurance cover art therapy? The answer can be complicated, but let’s get a better understanding
At Nexus Teen Academy, we provide an easy process to help you verify your teenager’s treatment insurance coverage. In this article, we will discuss what you need to know about insurance coverage to make an informed decision for your teen.
If you need immediate help with your teenager, consider contacting our team today. Let us help you and your teen navigate the complex world of mental health.
Does Health Insurance Cover Art Therapy?
Mental health services, including therapy offerings like art therapy, have gained increased recognition in insurance policies over the years. Despite being considered a complementary therapy, art therapy offers vast benefits. It is perfect for teenagers who do not like sharing their thoughts verbally, as it encourages expression without speaking directly. This has made many insurance providers list it under mental health treatment services.
The Basics of Insurance Coverage for Mental Health Services
Most insurance plans, including private insurance, Medicaid, and Medicare, provide some form of mental health coverage. However, the extent of coverage varies depending on the provider and plan specifics.
The Impact of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA)
Due to the rise of mental health treatment centers, The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) has been initiated. This program ensures that mental health benefits are on par with medical and surgical benefits in most insurance plans. However, this does not guarantee coverage for all types of therapy, including teen art therapy. It may be considered a complementary treatment rather than a primary one, therefore affecting its eligibility.
Factors That Affect Insurance Coverage for Art Therapy
Several factors determine whether an insurance plan will cover art therapy. This may include therapist credentials, state laws, and art therapy treatment classification.
Whether the Therapist is Licensed and Credentialed
One of the most significant factor is whether the therapist is licensed and credentialed. Many insurance companies only cover services provided by licensed professionals. Some states offer specific licensing for art therapists, which can increase the likelihood of coverage. If you enroll your teenager at our teen mental health treatment center, you will not have to worry about our staff’s credentials. Our licensed and experienced team makes us a convenient partner for your teenager art therapy coverage.
State-specific Insurance Laws and Policies
State-specific insurance laws and policies also impact coverage. Some states mandate mental health coverage, including various forms of therapy. Others, however, do not explicitly recognize art therapy.
Whether Art Therapy is Classified as a Primary or Complementary Treatment
Another key factor is whether art therapy is classified as a primary or complementary treatment. Insurance providers often cover traditional psychotherapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). However, they may consider art therapy as a complementary service rather than a standalone treatment. This can limit their coverage to your teenager’s treatment, regardless of the positive impacts on your teenager’s mental health.
Types of Insurance Plans That May Cover Art Therapy
Several types of insurance plans may provide coverage for art therapy, despite their coverage, the extent of service covered varies. Types of insurance that may cover art therapy include:
How to Check If Your Insurance Covers Art Therapy
To determine whether your insurance provider covers teen art therapy, follow these steps:
At Nexus Teen Academy, we offer parents an easy way to verify their insurance. Filling a couple of forms is all you need to ensure your teenagers get access to comprehensive and tailored treatment.
What to Do If Art Therapy Is Not Covered
If your insurance doesn’t cover art therapy, there are still ways to make it accessible. Many therapists offer out-of-pocket payment options. You will be required to pay for things like deductibles and any costs for health care not covered by your insurance provider. Depending on your income, you can work with your therapists to accept sliding scale fees. These fees are usually determined by how much you make to ensure treatment remains accessible and affordable to most parents.
You can also consider getting funding for nonprofits or organizations dealing with teen mental health. Some nonprofits and mental health organizations offer grants or subsidized therapy programs. Schools, community, and religious centers may offer free or low-cost art therapy sessions for students or community members. Additionally, you can check with local universities that offer therapy programs, their graduate students often provide services at a reduced rate under supervision.
If you still can’t afford therapy for your teenager, even after weighing all of the options, consider self-guided art therapy techniques. There are a lot of resources online that your teenager can use to practice various art therapy activities. They can join groups or art communities focused on bettering teenagers’ mental health. While these communities do not replace professional art therapy, attempting art therapy ideas at home can still offer emotional and creative support.
How to Advocate for Art Therapy Coverage
Most insurance providers cover wide treatment options, including creative and experiential therapies like psychodrama. However, not all insurance does, and yours could be one of them. Instead of giving up on the treatment option, you can take steps to appeal for art therapy coverage. Consider advocating for your teen’s art coverage by:
Teen Art Therapy at Nexus Teen Academy
At Nexus Teen Academy, we have a team of professional and licensed mental health providers ready to attend to your teenager’s needs. Our treatment center offers art therapy sessions to ensure your teenager gets the best tailored and comprehensive treatment without breaking the bank.
We also offer a streamlined process of verifying whether your insurance covers teen art therapy treatment. This process is free of charge, making us your number one choice for affordable, tailored, and comprehensive treatment.
If you are considering enrolling your teen in art therapy, please contact us. Book an appointment with our team to learn how art therapy can help them process their emotions and learn positive coping skills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Insurance plans that cover mental health services, such as PPOs and some HMOs, are more likely to include art therapy, especially if provided by a licensed therapist.
You may get reimbursed if your plan covers art therapy. Check with your provider for eligibility and required documentation.
Some insurers cover online art therapy if a licensed provider conducts it and meets telehealth guidelines.
If deemed a qualified medical expense, HSA and FSA funds can be used for art therapy.