Psychoterapie pojišťovna: Kdo hradí terapii a jak si ji zajistit v ČR

When you need psychoterapie pojišťovna, psychoterapeutická péče hrazená ze zdravotního pojištění. Also known as hradba psychoterapie, it is not automatic — you need to navigate a system that many find confusing. In the Czech Republic, public health insurance can cover psychotherapy, but only under specific conditions, and not all therapists are eligible to bill it. Most people assume that if they have health insurance, therapy is free — but that’s not true. Only certified psychotherapists with a contract with your insurance company can provide services that are reimbursed. And even then, you usually need an indikační list, doporučení od lékaře pro psychoterapii. Also known as indikační výpověď, it is the official gateway to state-funded sessions. Without it, you’re paying out of pocket — even if your therapist is qualified.

So how do you get started? First, talk to your general practitioner. They’re the ones who can issue the indikační list, but many don’t know the full process. You need to clearly explain that you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, burnout, or trauma — not just "feeling down." The list must specify the diagnosis, like F32 (depression) or F41 (anxiety disorders), and the number of allowed sessions — usually 12 to 24. Once you have it, you can choose any therapist who accepts public insurance. But here’s the catch: there aren’t enough of them. Many therapists work privately because the reimbursement rates are low and paperwork is heavy. That’s why waiting lists are long — sometimes months.

There are alternatives. Some regional centra duševního zdraví, veřejné zařízení poskytující psychologickou podporu. Also known as CDZ, it offers free or low-cost sessions for people with low income or without insurance. These centers often work with trainees or licensed psychologists under supervision. They’re not a replacement for private therapy, but they’re a real lifeline if you’re stuck. Also, some private insurance plans offer better coverage than public ones — check your policy. And if you’re unemployed or on social benefits, you might qualify for grants from municipal or non-profit programs.

You don’t need to wait until you’re in crisis to act. If you’ve been feeling off for weeks, if you’re avoiding people, if sleep or appetite changed — that’s enough reason to ask for help. The system isn’t perfect, but it’s not impossible. You just need to know where to look. Below, you’ll find real stories and practical guides on how to get through the bureaucracy, what to say to your doctor, how to verify if your therapist is approved, and which clinics actually deliver results — not just paperwork.