Does CareFirst Insurance Cover Online Therapy in Maryland?
- Flow Therapy
- Dec 22, 2025
- 3 min read
If you have CareFirst insurance and you are thinking about starting therapy, one of the first questions you might have is simple and important: Does CareFirst cover online therapy in Maryland?
The short answer is yes, many CareFirst plans do cover online therapy, including virtual therapy sessions with licensed providers in Maryland. However, coverage can look a little different depending on your specific plan, which is why understanding the basics ahead of time can make getting started much easier.
This guide breaks it down in plain language so you know what to expect and how to move forward with confidence.
Is Online Therapy Covered by CareFirst in Maryland?
CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield generally provides coverage for mental health services, including telehealth and online therapy, when services are delivered by a licensed provider and are considered medically necessary.
Since online therapy is now widely accepted as an effective form of mental health care, many CareFirst plans treat virtual therapy the same way they treat in-person therapy.
This means that for many Maryland residents, online therapy sessions may be covered just like traditional office visits.
That said, coverage details depend on your individual CareFirst plan.
What Types of Therapy Are Usually Covered?
CareFirst plans often cover online therapy for concerns such as:
Anxiety and stress
Depression and mood concerns
Trauma and emotional regulation
Life transitions and burnout
Child and adolescent mental health
Ongoing therapy and short-term support
Coverage typically applies to therapy provided by licensed clinicians, including licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers, psychologists, and other credentialed mental health providers.
What Can Affect Your CareFirst Coverage?
Even when online therapy is covered, a few factors can affect what you pay out of pocket:
Your Specific Plan
Some CareFirst plans require a copay for each session, while others apply therapy services toward a deductible before coverage kicks in.
Copays and Deductibles
Depending on your plan, you may have:
A set copay per session
A deductible that must be met first
Coinsurance after the deductible
Network Status
Seeing an in-network provider typically results in lower out-of-pocket costs. Some plans also offer out-of-network benefits, which may allow for partial reimbursement.
Because plan details vary, it is always a good idea to confirm benefits directly with CareFirst before your first appointment.
How to Check If Your CareFirst Plan Covers Online Therapy
If you want clarity before booking, here are a few simple steps you can take:
Log into your CareFirst member portal and review your mental health benefits.
Call the number on the back of your insurance card and ask about outpatient mental health or behavioral health services.
Ask specifically about coverage for virtual or telehealth therapy in Maryland.
Confirm whether your plan has a copay, deductible, or session limits.
Taking these steps ahead of time can help you avoid surprises and feel more prepared.
Why Many Maryland Clients Choose Online Therapy With CareFirst
Online therapy has become a popular option for many CareFirst members in Maryland because it offers flexibility without sacrificing quality of care.
Some of the benefits include:
Attending therapy from home or another private space
Fewer scheduling barriers
No commute time
Greater consistency with sessions
Access to licensed Maryland therapists statewide
For children, teens, and adults alike, virtual therapy can be an effective and convenient way to get support.
What If I Prefer to Self-Pay Instead?
Even if you have CareFirst insurance, some people choose self-pay therapy instead.
Clients may prefer self-pay for reasons such as:
Wanting more flexibility
Avoiding insurance limitations
Keeping therapy off their insurance record
Continuing care without interruptions
Self-pay is always an option, and many clients choose it intentionally, even when insurance is available.
Online Therapy in Maryland With CareFirst
Flow Therapy provides online therapy in Maryland for children, teens, and adults. We accept many CareFirst insurance plans and also offer self-pay options for clients who prefer flexibility.
All therapy services are provided virtually using a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform, allowing Maryland residents to access care from anywhere in the state.
Ready to Get Started?
If you have CareFirst insurance and are considering online therapy, getting started does not have to be complicated.
You can request an appointment through our secure online booking system and our team can help guide you through the next steps.
Flow Therapy offers online therapy in Maryland for children, teens, and adults, with both insurance and self-pay options available. If you are ready to begin, you can book your appointment today.
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