Mental Health Services: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to access psychological treatment in the Netherlands and understand how your insurance deductible applies to mental health care.
Mental Health Services provides professional treatment for various psychological issues through the Dutch healthcare system.
Who it's for
To qualify for these mental health services, you must first consult with your General Practitioner (GP). You cannot access this specific scheme directly; a formal referral from your GP is required to confirm that your psychological needs meet the criteria for covered treatment.
What you get
Once you have a referral, you can access treatment for various psychological issues. This care is covered by your mandatory private health insurance. Depending on your specific needs, this may include support from a Psycholoog (psychologist) or other specialized mental health providers within the GGZ (mental health care) system.
What it costs you
While the core treatment is covered by your health insurance, it is not entirely free. The cost of your care is subject to your annual deductible, known in the Netherlands as the eigen risico. This means you will likely need to pay for your care out of pocket until your annual deductible amount has been fully met for the year.
The catch to know
The most significant challenge with this scheme is the availability of care. Even with a valid referral from your GP, you may encounter long waiting lists when trying to secure appointments for specialized care. It is important to account for this potential delay when planning your treatment.
How to apply
- Make an appointment with your General Practitioner (GP) to discuss your mental health concerns.
- Obtain a formal referral from your GP if they determine you require psychological support.
- Contact mental health providers to discuss your referral and check for available treatment options.
- Confirm with your insurance provider how your specific deductible will be applied to the care you receive.