Does Cigna Cover CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)?
How Cigna covers CBT through Evernorth Behavioral Health — typical copays, the verification script, and using myCigna for claims and benefits checks.
The Short Answer
Yes, Cigna covers CBT. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is covered by every standard Cigna commercial plan under outpatient mental health benefits. Cigna's behavioral health network is administered through Evernorth Behavioral Health, with one of the largest behavioral networks in the country (300,000+ providers).
CBT sessions bill as standard psychotherapy (90834 or 90837). There is no CBT-specific code, benefit, or prior authorization.
Key Takeaways
- Cigna covers CBT under outpatient mental health; administered through Evernorth Behavioral Health.
- In-network copays typically $20–$50 per session.
- Use myCigna.com for benefits verification, provider search, and claim submission.
- Prior authorization is not required for standard outpatient CBT.
- Out-of-network PPO coverage is available; HMO plans generally do not cover OON.
What Cigna Covers for CBT
CPT codes
| CPT Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 90791 | Intake / diagnostic evaluation |
| 90834 | 45-minute psychotherapy |
| 90837 | 60-minute psychotherapy |
| 90853 | Group psychotherapy (CBT groups) |
Covered conditions
Cigna covers CBT for diagnosed anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, insomnia, chronic pain, eating disorders, and substance use.
Session count
Most Cigna commercial plans do not cap outpatient therapy sessions. Coverage continues as medically necessary.
In-Network vs. Out-of-Network CBT
In-network
- Cigna provider search — filter by Behavioral Health
- Evernorth operates the BH network; the directory is integrated
- Copay: $20–$50 per session on most plans
Out-of-network
- Cash-pay rates: $100–$250 per session
- PPO plans reimburse 50–80% of allowed amount after OON deductible
- HMO plans: no OON coverage
- Submit superbills via myCigna.com or the myCigna app
Prior Authorization
Cigna does not require prior authorization for standard outpatient CBT. Prior auth applies only to IOP, PHP, residential, psychological testing, and ABA.
How to Verify Your Cigna CBT Coverage
Call member services at 1-800-244-6224 or the number on your ID card, and ask for behavioral health benefits.
Script
- "What is my copay for in-network individual psychotherapy, CPT 90834?"
- "Is 90837 reimbursed at the same rate?"
- "Do I have a separate mental health deductible?"
- "Is prior authorization required for outpatient therapy?"
- "Do I have out-of-network benefits, and what is the allowed amount for 90834?"
- "Are telehealth CBT sessions reimbursed at the same rate as in-person?"
- "Is my BH managed by Evernorth or by a carve-out?"
Write down the reference number.
Typical Out-of-Pocket Costs for a 12-Session CBT Course
| Scenario | Per Session | 12-Session Course |
|---|---|---|
| In-network, $30 copay | $30 | $360 |
| In-network, $50 copay | $50 | $600 |
| HDHP before deductible | ~$100–$150 | $1,200–$1,800 |
| OON PPO, 70% reimbursement | ~$50–$90 post-reimbursement | $2,000+ (year 1 OON deductible) |
| Cash pay | $150–$250 | $1,800–$3,000 |
See CBT therapy cost for the private-pay view.
What to Do If Cigna Denies a CBT Claim
- Get the denial EOB in writing.
- Ask your therapist to peer-review with Evernorth.
- File a first-level appeal within 180 days via myCigna.
- Cite MHPAEA parity if the denial appears modality- or diagnosis-specific.
- External review is available after internal appeals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cigna cover CBT-I for insomnia or CBT-CP for chronic pain? Yes. These variants bill as standard psychotherapy; coverage follows the underlying diagnosis.
Does Cigna cover online CBT? Yes — telehealth psychotherapy is covered at the same rate as in-person on most Cigna plans.
Does Cigna cover Talkspace or similar online platforms? Some Cigna employer plans include Talkspace through benefits add-ons. Verify on myCigna.
Is my plan's BH managed by Evernorth? Most Cigna commercial plans route BH through Evernorth. The BH phone on your card will tell you.