How to Find an Aetna Therapist (A Simple Guide to Using Your Aetna MentalHealth Benefits)

Written By AJ Wagner

If you’re searching for an Aetna therapist or trying to understand how to use your Aetna mental health benefits, you’re in the right place. Many people want therapy but aren’t sure how to navigate their insurance plan or where to find a therapist who is in-network with Aetna. The good news: it’s easier than it seems — and following a few steps can help you find the right Aetna-covered therapist quickly.

Below is a simple guide to help you start therapy with someone who fits your needs and accepts your insurance.

1. Check Your Aetna Mental Health Benefits

Before scheduling with a therapist, it helps to know your coverage. With Aetna plans, you’ll want to check:

  • Your mental health copay or coinsurance

  • Whether you have a therapy deductible

  • If virtual therapy / telehealth is covered (most Aetna plans do!)

  • Whether you need a referral for therapy

You can review your benefits on your Aetna member portal or by calling the number on your card. Ask specifically about behavioral health, therapy, and online counseling coverage.

2. Use Aetna’s Provider Directory to Find In-Network Therapists

Aetna has an online directory that lists:

  • Aetna in-network therapists

  • Aetna telehealth providers

  • Licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs)

  • Aetna counselors for anxiety, depression, and trauma

It’s a helpful tool — just keep in mind directories aren’t always fully up to date, so it’s smart to reach out to therapists directly as well.

3. Search for Therapists Who Explicitly Accept Aetna Insurance

You can also find Aetna therapists on platforms like:

  • Psychology Today

  • Alma

  • Headway

  • TherapyDen

  • GoodTherapy

Use keywords like:

  • Aetna therapist near me

  • Aetna telehealth counselor

  • Aetna couples therapist

  • Aetna online therapy

  • Aetna EMDR therapist

  • Aetna anxiety therapist

This improves your chances of connecting with someone who matches your style and needs.

4. Choose a Therapist Who Specializes in Your Concerns

Your therapy experience is most effective when you choose someone with experience in what you need support with. Look for:

  • Anxiety therapists

  • Depression counselors

  • Couples therapy / relationship therapy

  • Trauma-informed therapists

  • Teen therapy

  • LGBTQ+ affirming therapists

A great Aetna therapist will help you feel safe, supported, and understood.

5. Consider Aetna-Covered Telehealth Therapy

Aetna covers virtual therapy with many providers, which is a great option if you want flexible scheduling, more privacy, less commute time, and access to a broader range of therapists. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a licensed therapist who fits your needs, especially in California, where telehealth is widely used.

6. Schedule a Consultation With an Aetna Therapist

Most Aetna therapists offer a free 15-minute consultation. This is a chance to:

  • Ask about their approach

  • Discuss your goals

  • See if the fit feels right

  • Understand session frequency and structure

Trust your instincts; feeling comfortable matters more than anything else.

If you’re looking for an Aetna therapist, I can help. I am an in-network Aetna provider, offering virtual therapy for individuals and couples. I specialize in:

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Trauma

  • Couples counseling

  • Stress + life transitions

  • Teen mental health

If you want support, I’m happy to answer questions, or schedule your first session. You deserve support and you deserve to feel better.

AJ Wagner
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