What is a deductible, and does it apply to therapy?

A: A deductible is the amount you pay for covered services before the plan begins paying under its terms. Some services may be covered before you meet it. Whether outpatient therapy is one of them depends on your plan.

Worked example: plan A: $25 therapy copay, deductible waived → $25 from day one. Plan B: $2,000 deductible, $110 negotiated session rate → you pay $110/session for ~18 sessions, then coinsurance.

Do this: call the member line and ask exactly: "Is outpatient mental health subject to my deductible, or copay-only?" Write down the answer and the date.

Sources: CMS health-insurance terms and HealthCare.gov Summary of Benefits and Coverage.