Does my health insurance cover psychological care?
Basic insurance, supplementary insurance, excess, the reimbursement rules are complex. We set out when you are covered and when you pay yourself.
Basic insurance and mental health care
Most psychological care in the Netherlands falls under Basic Mental Health Care (BGGZ) or Specialised Mental Health Care (SGGZ), and is included in basic health insurance. Requirements: you need a GP referral letter, and the provider must have a contract with your insurer (or you go to a non-contracted provider, for which you receive less reimbursement or none at all).
Excess (eigen risico)
Psychological care falls under the compulsory excess. In 2026 that is €385 per year. This means: you pay the first €385 in healthcare costs yourself. Only after that does the insurer reimburse. If you have already used up that amount (e.g. through GP visits or physiotherapy), reimbursement starts sooner.
Not reimbursed: the intake via PsyIntake
The intake via PsyIntake is deliberately kept outside the insurance system, this enables fast access without waiting time or referral letter. You pay for the intake yourself. If it turns out after the intake that reimbursed treatment is desirable, the provider can refer you and help with the administration.
Supplementary insurance
Some supplementary insurance packages reimburse a limited number of sessions with a psychologist outside the basic insurance, sometimes also with non-BIG-registered therapists or coaches. Check your policy summary or call your insurer.
Online therapy
Online sessions (video calls) are generally reimbursed in the same way as in-person sessions, provided the provider is BIG-registered and holds a contract with a health insurer.
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