The good news: the future of mental health care is likely covered by your insurance.
As more people discover the convenience of online therapy, we’re often asked whether Blue Cross Blue Shield covers virtual sessions. If you're wondering whether you can use BCBS for online therapy, we have great news: most plans now cover telehealth mental health services at the same rate as in-person visits.
Yes, most Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance plans cover online therapy through their telehealth benefits.
The expansion of virtual mental health coverage accelerated during the pandemic, and BCBS has maintained many of these benefits as a permanent offering. Your online therapy sessions are typically covered under the same behavioral health benefits as in-person therapy.
What started as a temporary solution has become a preferred option for many BCBS members. Online therapy removes significant barriers to mental health care—transportation issues, scheduling conflicts, and geographic limitations no longer prevent people from getting help.
Most BCBS plans now treat telehealth therapy identically to office visits, meaning your copays, deductibles, and coverage limits remain the same regardless of how you meet with your therapist.
Learn more about your Blue Cross Blue Shield mental health coverage.
BCBS therapy coverage often includes multiple virtual mental health services:
The most common form of online therapy involves real-time video sessions with licensed therapists.
BCBS covers these sessions for:
If you are looking for couple’s therapy, check the details of your specific plan. Many insurance plans do not cover it.
Some BCBS plans also cover audio-only therapy sessions. While video is generally preferred, phone therapy can be an option when:
Many BCBS plans now include access to digital therapy platforms:
Virtual therapy offers unique advantages over in-person care–particularly when it is covered by your insurance:
Online therapy with BCBS expands your provider network beyond your immediate geographic area.
With online therapy, you are more likely to be able to work with:
Many people find online therapy less intimidating than in-person care, for multiple reasons:
We know that you need to fit therapy into your busy life. Virtual sessions often offer:
Finding virtual therapists who accept Blue Cross Blue Shield requires a slightly different approach than finding in-person providers:
Before starting online therapy, confirm that:
Online therapists must be licensed in your state of residence:
Prepare for virtual sessions to maximize your benefits:
Ensure you have:
Create a therapeutic environment:
Keep records of:
Understanding cost differences helps you budget effectively:
Most BCBS plans charge the same for virtual and in-person therapy:
Virtual sessions eliminate:
Consider these factors:
Your plan may cover various common virtual treatment approaches:
Standard coverage typically includes:
Virtual groups offer:
Many BCBS plans cover:
BCBS can apply limits to the number of sessions or types of care they will cover, and telehealth is no exception. Here are a few care limits you may encounter:
Some plans may:
Coverage typically requires:
Not all virtual services may be covered. The following services are more likely to be excluded from some insurance plans:
With potential care limits from the insurance company, it’s important to optimize your virtual mental health care. Here are our best tips:
Finding the right provider is the most crucial part of effectiveness in therapy. Look for therapists who:
Make the most of each appointment by:
Virtual therapy works best with regular appointment schedules, consistent session locations, and commitment to the process.
Therapy may be challenging at first. Keep going.
Finding the right online therapist who accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield doesn't have to be so complicated. Our free matching service specializes in connecting you with online therapy providers who:
Our team understands the nuances of BCBS telehealth coverage and can help you navigate plan benefits.
Ready to start online therapy with your Blue Cross Blue Shield coverage? Take our quick questionnaire to get matched with virtual therapists who accept your insurance and fit your needs.
The convenience of online therapy combined with BCBS coverage makes mental health care more accessible than ever.
Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or life transitions, virtual therapy provides professional support from the comfort of your chosen space.
MyWellbeing matches you to the right provider that specializes in what matters most to you. Our match form takes less than 5 minutes to complete, and you'll immediately receive 3 provider recommendations that fit your needs. All of the providers on MyWellbeing offer a free phone consultation to assess fit and see if you two should work together. Click below to get matched!
