Does Medicare Cover Hypnotherapy?

For years, there has been a lot of doubt about hypnotherapy’s effectiveness. While it is true that hypnotherapy does not work for everyone, it can still be effective for people who are suffering from stress, anxiety, and pain.

It is not invasive and is a safe therapy that helps. So a common question many people have is, “does Medicare cover hypnotherapy?” In this article, we answer the question in clear, plain English. You will also find the average costs of hypnotherapy, as well as other helpful info.

Does Medicare Cover Hypnotherapy?

The short answer is yes; Medicare will cover the cost of hypnotherapy. But not 100% of the time. As is often the case with Medicare, certain conditions have to be met in order for Medicare to pay for your hypnotherapy. Below we look at what these are so you know what to expect.

Original Medicare (Medicare Part A and Part B) covers hypnotherapy if they consider it medically necessary. This could be to treat a medical condition including psychological ones.

To get coverage you will need a prescription from a doctor. It should state your medical condition and/or why hypnotherapy is medically necessary. Some of the “medically necessary” conditions include chronic pain, anxiety, and somatoform.

Medicare Advantage plans (Medicare Part C) may also cover hypnotherapy. They cover everything Original Medicare covers and some additional benefits.

How Much Does Hypnotherapy Cost?

The first session of hypnotherapy usually includes initial consultation. Initial consultation along with hypnotherapy may cost between $100 to $300. However, some hypnotherapy does not charge initial consultation. Follow-up visits may cost $75 to $300.

What Is Hypnotherapy?

It is a therapy that uses hypnosis and is performed by clinical hypnotherapists. The hypnosis method is like being lost or absorbed in a book, music, movie, and even one’s own self-thoughts. As a result, patients can see through themselves and use that to help change or regain control of themselves.

When To Use Hypnotherapy

Hypnotherapy is used to treat or even solve a patient’s condition, both medical and psychological. Some of the conditions that it treats are:

Phobias
Anxiety
Substance addiction
Tobacco addiction
Digestive disorders
Chronic pain
Somatoform
Sexual dysfunction

The method also helps with personal problems like sleep issues and relationship issues.

How Does Hypnotherapy Work?

It is often performed in a calm environment. With the help of your therapist, it will help you go into a more relaxed and focused state, not asleep. While in your relaxed state, your therapist will ask you to think about experiences and situations that you think will help you change the way you think and act more positively.

Your therapist will also give you some options or suggestions that you think may help you. You may choose whether you will take the suggestion or not.

Hypnosis can be effective. However, cognitive-behavioral therapy is still the recommended first option . At least when it comes to helping in coping with stress, anxiety, and pain.

Note: Medicare coverage changes all the time. And your specific coverage may vary from plan to plan for Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans. Always be sure to double check with your health care provider and/or Medicare insurance provider about what your plan covers and what it does not.