Finding Therapists Who Accept Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance
Seeking mental health treatment can be difficult enough without the stress of figuring out what therapists take your insurance coverage. Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) provides insurance plans to tens of millions of Americans. Luckily, many mental health professionals accept BCBS policies. With a bit of research, you can find an in-network therapist that meets your needs and is covered under your specific BCBS plan.
Individual vs Group Plans
BCBS offers both individual and group insurance plans obtained through an employer or marketplace. Individual plans allow you to see any in-network providers. Group plans through an employer often require referrals or pre-authorizations. Check your specific coverage details to understand referral and network requirements when searching for therapists.
Coverage for Therapy Services
Most BCBS plans cover mental health services like therapy and counseling. Exact coverage levels depend on your plan. Many plans have copays for sessions rather than needing to meet a deductible first. Therapy is often covered similarly to a doctors visit. Review your coverage specifics for any therapy service limits or exclusions.
Finding In-Network Therapists
Start your BCBS therapist search by logging in to your insurance account online or using the BCBS mobile app. Here you can:
- View in-network mental health providers
- Confirm coverage amounts for therapists
- Evaluate if a specific therapist is in-network
You can filter the directory by speciality, location, gender, languages spoken and more. Online profiles provide additional information to help find a good fit.
Calling to Verify Benefits
Once you have an in-network therapist in mind, always call BCBS directly to verify coverage and understand cost shares for that specific provider. Confirm that the therapist is in-network for your particular plan. Get a breakdown of copays or coinsurance amounts you will owe per visit. Understanding costs ahead of time prevents surprise bills.
Who Takes BCBS Plans?
Many types of mental health professionals accept BCBS insurance, including:
- Psychologists
- Psychiatrists
- Licensed clinical social workers
- Licensed professional counselors
- Licensed marriage and family therapists
Individual private practices, group practices, hospital systems, and community clinics often take BCBS. Larger networks increase likelihood of in-network coverage.
Types of Therapy Covered by BCBS
BCBS is flexible about the types of mental health treatment covered, as long as performed by a licensed provider. Common therapy approaches covered include:
Individual Counseling
One-on-one talk therapy provides customized treatment. You meet privately with a therapist for 45-60 minutes weekly or biweekly. This allows in-depth work on personal issues.
Group Therapy
Group therapy lets you connect with others facing similar challenges. Under the guidance of a therapist, groups meet weekly to provide support and feedback.
Couples Counseling
Couples therapy improves romantic relationships by increasing communication skills and understanding. Partners attend sessions together and gain new conflict resolution abilities.
Family Therapy
Family sessions allow members to express feelings and address shared issues. A therapist mediates and guides the family toward healthier dynamics.
Child Therapy
Therapists trained in child development help kids express themselves through playful and creative methods appropriate to age and maturity level.
Teletherapy
Many BCBS plans now cover remote therapy conducted via video chat or phone sessions. This allows more flexibility and accessibility.
Comparing BCBS Plans
BCBS offers many plan options and variations by state. When selecting insurance coverage, compare mental health benefits to find a plan that fits therapy needs and budget.
HMO vs PPO
HMO plans require you to select a primary care provider who coordinates referrals. PPO plans allow you to see any in-network provider without referrals.
Deductibles and Copays
Plans with lower deductibles and copays make per-session costs more affordable. Higher deductible plans have lower premiums but therapy costs more until meeting the deductible.
Coverage Limits
Some plans limit the number of therapy sessions covered per year or set a maximum dollar amount of coverage. Choose unlimited sessions if long-term therapy is needed.
Telehealth Services
Many plans now cover online or phone therapy, but some only reimburses for in-office visits. If you want remote options, make sure it is included.
Mental Health Providers
Look for plans with large provider networks so finding an in-network therapist is easier. Narrow networks limit your options.
With a wide selection of plans and mental health benefits, BCBS offers many options to find covered therapy tailored to your needs.
Using BCBS for Specialized Therapy
In addition to general talk therapy, BCBS can provide coverage for specialized treatment approaches.
Trauma-Focused Therapy
Trauma recovery techniques like EMDR and somatic therapy integrate mind and body healing. Therapists trained in trauma can help individuals overcome PTSD, abuse, grief and other distress.
Eating Disorder Treatment
Comprehensive treatment for eating disorders includes nutritional counseling, body image work, and managing triggers. Therapists guide patients toward normal eating habits long-term.
Addiction Therapy
Counseling helps identify root causes of addiction and change self-destructive behaviors. Combined with treatment programs, therapy supports ongoing recovery and relapse prevention.
Anxiety Treatment
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) provides effective techniques to reduce anxiety, panic, OCD and related disorders. Patients learn new coping mechanisms.
Depression Treatment
Treating depression often involves behavioral activation, thought restructuring, lifestyle changes, and medication management under a therapists care. This multifaceted approach provides lasting relief.
Make sure to look for therapists specifically experienced in treating your condition when searching in the BCBS provider network.
Tips for Using BCBS for Therapy
Follow these tips to ensure a smooth process using BCBS insurance to access mental health services:
Check Your Coverage
Understand therapy benefits, limits, deductibles and copays for your specific plan. Also look into wellness incentives, which sometimes offer reduced therapy costs.
Get Referrals If Needed
For HMO plans, get a referral from your primary care provider before making therapy appointments.
Verify Benefits
When contacting potential therapists, ask if they verify benefits with BCBS and have them check your coverage specifics.
Preauthorize Sessions
Some plans require treatment preauthorization before paying for therapy. Take care of approvals early in the process.
Submit Claims Properly
Make sure therapists know proper claim procedures and reimbursement protocols for your BCBS plan to avoid payment issues.
With some advance planning, you can successfully use your BCBS policy to access high-quality mental health care and get the most out of your benefits.
FAQs
Does BCBS cover marriage counseling?
Yes, most BCBS plans cover couples counseling and marriage therapy provided by an in-network provider. Preauthorization may be required depending on your plan details.
Can I see an out-of-network therapist?
Seeing an out-of-network provider is typically only allowed for PPO plans. Out-of-network therapists often cost significantly more due to lower reimbursement rates by BCBS for non-preferred providers.
How do I find LGBTQ+ friendly therapists using BCBS?
When searching the BCBS provider directory, filter by "LGBTQ+ issues" under list of specialties. Therapists self-report this specialty training. You can also call providers directly to inquire about experience.
Does BCBS cover therapy for children and teens?
Yes, most plans include coverage for child psychologists and youth counselors. Make sure any age limits are noted. Higher reimbursements often apply for younger children.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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