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mental-health
What is the difference between Military OneSource and TRICARE counseling?
Verified by TRICARE.com Editorial Team
Updated 2024-12-01
AI-assisted (gemini, gpt-4o)
Quick Answer
Military OneSource offers 12 free, confidential, non-medical counseling sessions. TRICARE covers clinical mental health treatment that becomes part of medical records.
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Key Takeaways
- OneSource: free, confidential, non-clinical
- TRICARE: clinical treatment, in records
- Different purposes
- Can use both as needed
Detailed Answer
Military OneSource and TRICARE serve different needs:
Military OneSource Counseling
- Free (no cost, no claims)
- Confidential (not in medical record)
- Non-medical counseling
- Up to 12 sessions per issue
- Life coaching approach
- For adjustments, stress, relationship issues
TRICARE Mental Health
- Clinical/medical treatment
- Becomes part of health record
- Diagnosis and treatment
- Unlimited sessions (as medically needed)
- For mental health conditions
- Covered with cost-shares
When to Use Military OneSource
- Stress management
- Marriage/relationship issues
- Parenting challenges
- Anger management
- Deployment adjustment
- Transitional issues
When to Use TRICARE
- Ongoing mental health conditions
- Depression, anxiety, PTSD
- Medication management needed
- Intensive treatment required
- Prior diagnosis history
Can Use Both
- Start with OneSource for confidentiality
- Transition to TRICARE if needed
- Different types of support
Helpful Tips
- Start with OneSource for privacy
- Transition to TRICARE if clinical need
- Both are valuable resources
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What do most military families add to their TRICARE coverage?
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Supplemental health insurance is the most common addition — it covers dental, vision, and out-of-pocket costs that TRICARE leaves uncovered. Life insurance and a legal will are also highly recommended.
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