Pojišťovná terapie: Co to je a jak ji získat v ČR

When you need help with anxiety, burnout, or relationship problems, pojišťovná terapie, psychoterapeutická péče hrazená zdravotní pojišťovnou, která umožňuje klientovi získat odbornou pomoc bez vysokých vlastních nákladů. Also known as terapie s pojistkou, it is a practical way to access professional mental health care in the Czech Republic without paying full price out of pocket. Many people assume this means free therapy — but it’s not that simple. The system has rules, limits, and hidden hurdles that can delay or block your access.

Not every therapist accepts insurance. Only those who are akreditovaní terapeuti, psychologové nebo psychiatři s platnou akreditací od České asociace pro psychoterapii a registrovaní u zdravotních pojišťoven can bill directly. And even then, most pojišťovny cover only specific types of therapy — mainly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or short-term psychodynamic approaches. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) or mentalization-based therapy (MBT)? Rarely covered. That’s why many people end up paying part of the cost themselves, even when they have insurance.

Who can use it? Adults with diagnosed conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, or personality disorders. Children and adolescents can also qualify, but parental involvement and a formal diagnosis are required. The number of covered sessions is limited — usually 10 to 20 per year, depending on the insurer. Some pojišťovny, like VZP or ČSZP, are more generous than others. But even if your insurer approves therapy, you still need to find a therapist who has space. Waiting times can be weeks or months, especially in Prague.

That’s why many people choose to pay privately — not because they can’t afford insurance therapy, but because they want faster access, more flexibility, or a therapist who uses a method not covered by insurance. Online therapy? Some pojišťovny now cover it, but only if the platform is registered and the therapist is on their approved list. And if you’re in crisis? Emergency help is available through crisis centers — but those aren’t therapy. They’re stabilization. Real healing takes time, consistency, and the right person.

So what’s the real picture? Pojišťovná terapie is a useful tool — but it’s not a magic ticket. It’s a system with gaps, delays, and restrictions. If you’re serious about getting help, you need to know how to navigate it. That’s why we’ve collected real experiences, practical guides, and step-by-step advice from therapists who work with insured clients every day. Below, you’ll find articles that explain exactly how to apply, which methods are covered, how to deal with long waits, and when it makes more sense to pay yourself. No fluff. No theory. Just what works in Czech reality.