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.
Navi Practices answers
PPO, HMO, EPO, POS: how your plan type affects finding a therapist
Your plan type decides who you can see and what you pay. PPO and POS plans usually let you see any licensed therapist (and often some out-of-network benefit); HMO and EPO plans usually cover in-network providers only, and an HMO may want a referral. Call Navi at 888-505-NAVI (6284) and a navigator checks your plan type and finds a therapist who fits. This is general information, not insurance advice.
The four common plan types
PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): see any licensed therapist, usually no referral, and often some out-of-network reimbursement. The most flexible for therapy.
HMO (Health Maintenance Organization): covers in-network providers only and may require a referral from a primary care provider.
EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization): in-network only, but usually no referral needed.
POS (Point of Service): a hybrid — in-network like an HMO, but with some out-of-network benefit, often if you get a referral.
Other terms you may see
HDHP (High-Deductible Health Plan): a lower premium with a higher deductible, often paired with an HSA; you may pay the full session rate until the deductible is met. Medicaid and Medicare are government programs with their own rules, and Navi works with both.
Whatever the acronym, the questions are the same: is the therapist in-network, do you need a referral, and what will you pay? Navi verifies those before you are matched.
How Navi uses your plan type
Tell the navigator your insurer and plan type — it is usually printed on your card. They use it to search for therapists who are in-network and accepting clients, and to flag when a referral may be needed. Navi is not an insurer and does not guarantee benefits.
Frequently asked questions
- Which plan type is easiest for finding a therapist?
- PPO and POS plans are usually the most flexible because they often cover out-of-network care and rarely require a referral. HMO and EPO plans can still work well — you simply need an in-network therapist, and an HMO may want a referral.
- Do I need a referral to see a therapist?
- Usually not with PPO, EPO, or POS plans. Some HMO plans ask for a referral from your primary care provider. A navigator can tell you what your plan expects and help either way.
- 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.
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.