Understanding Your TRICARE Benefits Doesn't Have to Be Complicated.

Whether you have TRICARE Prime, Select, Reserve Select, Young Adult, or TRICARE for Life, this guide will help you understand referrals, copays, coverage, and how to get started with therapy.

Transparent, Direct Billing

We bill TRICARE directly whenever possible. Before your first appointment, we'll review your benefits, explain any expected costs, and answer your questions, so you know what to expect before treatment begins.

We verify your benefits.

We confirm your coverage before treatment begins.

We bill TRICARE directly

We handle claims so you don't have to.

No surprise bills

You'll understand any expected costs before your first appointment.

TRICARE Therapy Benefits Explained

TRICARE Prime

TRICARE Select

Typical Costs

  • Active duty service members generally begin through the military referral pathway.

  • Most dependents can seek outpatient mental health care without a referral.

  • Covered outpatient therapy generally has no copay when plan rules are followed.

  • Offers more flexibility when choosing a provider.

  • Generally does not require a referral for outpatient mental health care.

  • Usually includes a per-session copay.

  • Copays vary by beneficiary category and plan.

  • Verify your benefits before your first appointment.

  • We can help you understand the next step.

Prime, Select, Referrals & Copays.

It can feel like learning a new language. If you've ever tried to understand your TRICARE mental health benefits, you're not alone. Here's a simple guide to Prime, Select, referrals, and common out-of-pocket costs so you can get started with confidence.

Typical Out-of-Pocket Cost

Most military families pay far less than they expect. We'll verify your exact benefits before your first appointment.

TRICARE Prime

$0

Most covered outpatient mental health visits

Usually no copay when plan requirements are met.

Active Duty require a referral

TRICARE Select

~$39

Typical in-network outpatient visit

Most beneficiaries do not need a referral.

TRICARE Retirees

~$52

Typical in-network outpatient visit

Costs vary slightly by plan.

What Can Therapy Help With?

Many people come to therapy to get support with everyday challenges, not because they are in crisis.

  • Stress, anxiety, and worry

  • Depression and low mood

  • Relationship or family challenges

  • Life transitions and adjustment

  • Trauma, grief, and loss

  • Burnout and emotional overload

Why Telehealth Works So Well

For military families, telehealth can make consistent care more manageable.

  • Convenient, flexible scheduling

  • Private and secure appointments from home

  • Access to care wherever military life takes you

  • Less driving and less time away from family

TRICARE Young Adult

Coverage for eligible young adults who have aged out of a parent's TRICARE plan.

TRICARE Reserve Select

Coverage for Selected Reserve members and eligible family members.

TRICARE for Life

Works alongside Medicare for eligible beneficiaries.

PCS & Moving?

Telehealth often allows military families to continue therapy after relocating.

Other TRICARE Plans We Support

Whether you're Active Duty, Reserve, National Guard, retired, or a military family member, we can help you understand your TRICARE benefits and access care.

You Deserve Support. We're Here for You.

No matter what you are navigating, you do not have to figure it out alone.

Head Strong & Ready is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supporting the mental fitness of our military community.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational purposes only and is not a guarantee of TRICARE coverage or benefits. Referral requirements, copays, covered services, and eligibility vary by beneficiary status and plan. Always verify your individual benefits with TRICARE before receiving care.