Is Navi really free?
Yes, 100% free! We're here to help you navigate the mental health system—no hidden costs, no catches. We make it easier for you to find care, and our partners pay us when we make a successful match.
Aetna, CVS Health, and Aetna Behavioral Health
Aetna is part of CVS Health, and mental health benefits are usually administered under Aetna Behavioral Health — so a therapist's paperwork or your portal may say "Aetna Behavioral Health" even though it is the same plan on your card.
Aetna also includes many products (PPO, HMO, EPO, POS, high-deductible). Whether a therapist can see you depends on your exact plan, your state, and whether that clinician is accepting new clients under that contract.
A navigator verifies your specific plan and whether a provider is accepting that coverage. Navi does not guarantee that every product from a named insurer, or every clinic, is in-network.
Aetna plan types and what they mean for therapy
PPO and Open Choice plans usually let you see any licensed therapist, often include some out-of-network benefit, and rarely need a referral. EPO and many HMO plans (for example Aetna Select) usually cover in-network providers only, and an HMO may expect a primary care referral. High-deductible plans may mean you pay the full session rate until the deductible is met.
Tell the navigator exactly which Aetna plan you have; they verify the details rather than assuming.
Frequently asked questions
- Is Aetna the same as CVS Health or Aetna Behavioral Health?
- Aetna is part of CVS Health, and its mental health benefits are usually administered as Aetna Behavioral Health. You still use your Aetna plan and member ID — the different names refer to the same coverage.
- What insurances do you accept?
- We work with all insurances—Medicaid, Medicare, commercial plans, and even out-of-pocket options. Our navigators will help you understand your coverage and find in-network providers.
- Is Navi really free?
- Yes, 100% free! We're here to help you navigate the mental health system—no hidden costs, no catches. We make it easier for you to find care, and our partners pay us when we make a successful match.
Ready to get matched?
Call 888-505-NAVI (6284). Navigation is free for callers. Partner practices receive matched patients. For emergencies call 911; for a crisis call or text 988.
Navi is not a crisis service and does not provide clinical care. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. For a mental health crisis, call or text 988.