Blue Cross Blue Shield Therapy Coverage can help you get the support you need for your mental health. You don’t have to figure everything out on your own because there are options for in-person visits, virtual therapy, and more.
Below, you’ll learn about BCBS’s therapy coverage, treatment options, how to get started with BCBS, and new updates on mental health support.
Treatment Options Under BCBS
BCBS offers different types of mental health coverage. Whether you have your own individual plan, a family plan, coverage through your job, Medicare, or Medi-Cal (through Blue Shield Promise), you have access to these mental health and substance use treatment options. The type of plan you have may affect how services are covered, but help is always available.
Therapy and Medication
If you’re feeling anxious, sad, grieving, or just having a hard time, a therapist can help you talk through it. Therapy gives you a safe space to share your thoughts and feelings.
If you have a condition that might need medication, like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, a psychotherapist can work with you to find the right medicine. You can choose from virtual (online) sessions or meet with someone in person, depending on what works best for you.
Inpatient and Facility-Based Treatment
Sometimes, you may need more support than therapy alone. If you need to stay at a hospital or treatment center for a while to get better, this is called inpatient care.
BCBS offers coverage for many facility-based treatments. This can help when you’re facing a crisis, need close care, or are working through a serious mental health issue.
Substance Use Treatment
If you’re struggling with alcohol or drug use, you’re not alone. Your BCBS plan is here to support you on your recovery journey.
There are different programs to help, including outpatient (you go in for treatment and go home after) and inpatient (you stay at a center). The goal is to help you find a path that fits your needs and gets you back on track.
Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA)
If your child has autism or you’re going through the diagnosis process, ABA therapy might be recommended.
This treatment helps children build useful skills, improve communication, and reduce certain behaviors. We’ll help you find the right support and give you the tools to feel confident in your next steps.
Recent Updates to BCBS Mental Health Coverage
BCBS is now making it easier for you to get mental health care by bringing services closer to your primary care doctor’s office. This approach, known as the Collaborative Care Model, helps you receive support for issues like anxiety or depression without needing to see a separate specialist.
What Is the Collaborative Care Model?
In this model, your primary care doctor works with a team that includes a behavioral health care manager and a consulting psychiatrist. Here’s how it works:
- Your Primary Care Doctor: Leads your overall care and coordinates with the team.
- Behavioral Health Care Manager: Regularly checks in with you, monitors your progress, and communicates with your doctor.
- Consulting Psychiatrist: Provides expert advice to your care team, helping to adjust your treatment plan as needed.
This setup allows you to receive mental health support in a familiar setting, making it more convenient and less intimidating. It also helps you get care faster, as you don’t have to wait for separate specialist appointments.
Benefits for You
- Faster Access to Care: You can start receiving support for your mental health needs more quickly.
- Convenience: All your care is coordinated through your primary care doctor’s office.
- Personalized Support: Your care team works together to create a treatment plan tailored to you.
BCBS is expanding this model across various states, including Michigan and Texas, to make mental health care more accessible and integrated into your regular health care experience.
If you’re interested in learning more or finding out if your primary care doctor offers this kind of support, consider reaching out to your doctor’s office or checking your BCBS plan.
Getting Started with Therapy Through BCBS
Getting started with therapy through BCBS is a direct process designed to support your mental well-being.
Check out below on how you can begin:
1. See What Your Insurance Covers
First, review your specific BCBS plan details to know what’s covered. Most plans include therapy sessions for conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more. Coverage can vary, so it’s essential to check your plan’s specifics.
2. Find a Therapist
Use BCBS’s provider directory to locate in-network therapists. Many plans also cover online therapy options, providing flexibility to fit your schedule.
3. Schedule an Appointment
Once you’ve selected a therapist, reach out to schedule your first session. Some therapists may require a referral, so confirm any prerequisites with your provider.
4. Prepare for Your Session
Think about what you’d like to discuss and any goals you have for therapy. This preparation can help make your sessions more effective.
5. Find Additional Support Resources Offered by BCBS
Beyond therapy, BCBS provides various resources to support your mental health:
- Self-Help Tools: Access articles, videos, and podcasts on topics like stress management, parenting, and work-life balance.
- On-Demand Programs: Engage in meditation and mindfulness sessions at your convenience.
- Text-Based Coaching: Receive confidential support through text messaging with trained coaches.
Everything is designed to support your mental health at your pace.
For details specific to your plan, it’s best to contact BCBS directly. They can provide information on coverage, in-network providers, and any other questions you may have.
Advocate for Your Mental Health
Indeed, your mental health matters just as much as your physical health. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, or just not like yourself, it’s okay to ask for help. You don’t have to wait for things to get worse. The sooner you speak up, the sooner you can start feeling better.
Start by talking to your doctor, a therapist, or even someone you trust. Let them know what you’re feeling. It’s your right to get the support you need, and there are people ready to help you through it.
Blue Cross Blue Shield therapy coverage makes it easier to get the care you deserve, whether in-person or online. If you’re ready to take the first step, OceanRock Health is here to support you. We offer therapy as part of our insurance services and can help guide you through your options so you can focus on feeling better.
