Understanding Insurance for Online Counseling in Nebraska: What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever tried to understand your insurance benefits, you’re not alone. For many people, the fine print around mental health coverage can feel confusing, overwhelming, or even discouraging.

The good news? In Nebraska, many insurance plans now cover online counseling (also called telehealth) just like in-person visits. That means getting the support you need may be more accessible—and more affordable—than you think.

At Blue Elephant Counseling, we believe that understanding your options is part of reducing barriers to care. Let’s break it down.

💻 Online Counseling and Insurance: The Basics

Online counseling allows you to meet with a licensed Nebraska counselor through secure video sessions from the comfort of your home. Over the past several years, insurance companies have expanded coverage for telehealth, including mental health services.

Today, many clients are surprised to learn that their online counseling sessions are covered at the same rate as in-person therapy.

👉 If you’re new to telehealth, you can learn more here:
Is Online Counseling Really Effective?

🧾 Does My Insurance Cover Online Counseling?

Coverage varies by plan, but most major insurers in Nebraska now include online mental health services.

Common plans that often provide telehealth coverage include:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield

• Nebraska Total Care

• UnitedHealthcare

• Other employer-based and marketplace plans

That said, every policy is different. Even within the same insurance company, coverage can vary depending on your specific plan.

🔍 How to Check Your Benefits

If insurance feels intimidating, start with these simple steps:

1. Look for Telehealth or Virtual Visit Coverage

Review your plan documents or online portal for terms like:

• Telehealth

• Virtual visits

• Online mental health services

2. Call the Number on Your Insurance Card

Ask:

• “Does my plan cover online or telehealth counseling?”

• “Are mental health services covered virtually?”

• “What are my copay or deductible responsibilities?”

3. Ask for Help

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Many online counseling providers—including Blue Elephant Counseling—can verify benefits for you and explain what’s covered before your first appointment.

👉 Learn more about our services here:
About Blue Elephant Counseling

💵 What About Out-of-Pocket Costs?

In many cases:

• Copays for online counseling are the same as in-person sessions

• Deductibles apply the same way they would in an office visit

However, costs depend on your individual plan. Some clients have low copays, while others may need to meet a deductible first. Asking ahead of time helps avoid surprises and allows you to plan with confidence.

For clients who are uninsured or underinsured, we also offer low-cost and free options through our counseling intern program, helping make care accessible to more Nebraskans.

🐘 Getting Started with Online Counseling in Nebraska

Starting counseling shouldn’t feel like another stressor. At Blue Elephant Counseling, our team works to make the process as clear and supportive as possible—from verifying insurance to scheduling your first session.

Online counseling offers:

• Privacy from your own home

• Flexible scheduling

• Access to trauma-informed care anywhere in Nebraska

• No long drives or waiting rooms

👉 Ready to take the next step?
Schedule an appointment here

Understanding insurance for online counseling doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With expanded telehealth coverage across Nebraska, getting support is more accessible than ever.

If you’ve been putting off counseling because of insurance questions or cost concerns, now may be a good time to revisit your options.

Let’s talk about it. You deserve care that fits your life.