Do you want longer-term therapy, weekly sessions, and/or sessions over school breaks? Do you want to see a therapist with a certain specialty or identity? There are many reasons to connect to off-campus therapy. Here's how to start!
All enrolled students have health insurance. You must either the (administered by Aetna) or another form of insurance. It is common for parents of students to opt out of OSHIP without their students' knowledge. If you're not sure of your insurance carrier, reach out to Emmons at emmons@oxy.edu. If you need help understanding your insurance, visit our Navigating Care at Oxy page.
Do you have the means to pay for therapy out of pocket, or will you need it to be fully or partially covered by insurance? To find out more about your health insurance benefits, call the 800 number on the back of your insurance card or log in to your insurance's web portal to see your plan details. Request/search for your Explanation of Health Benefits (sometimes called Behavioral Health Benefits). You'll want to know: 1) How many appointments am I eligible for? 2) What mental health services are included? 3) If I choose to go on mental health medication, are my prescriptions covered? 4) Is there a copay, and how much is it? 5) Do I have out-of-network benefits? 6) How do I submit a claim and how much will my insurance cover if I have to pay out of pocket?
There are pros and cons to both telehealth and in-person therapy sessions. Some therapists offer both. There are not many in-person therapy options walking distance from campus. Consider if you have the means or time to get off campus for in-person sessions, or if you can access private space for telehealth sessions. If you need to book a private space, email emmons@oxy.edu to enquire about booking space. You may also consider whether you want to see your therapist over school and summer breaks, if your therapist is licenced in the state you'll reside when you're not at school, and if your local therapist will offer telehealth if needed.