Finding support for your mental health and wellness journey
Taking care of your emotional well-being is just as important as caring for your physical health. If stress, worry, or changes in your daily life feel like too much, support is available.
What is behavioral health?
Behavioral health, sometimes known as mental health, affects how you think, feel, and act. It is an important part of your emotional well-being, relationships, daily activities, and physical health.
Support is available for many behavioral health concerns, including:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Sleep challenges
- Eating habits and eating-related concerns
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Alcohol or substance use disorder
- Bipolar disorder
- Schizophrenia
Types of providers that support behavioral health
At Blue Shield of California, members have access to a network of trusted providers.
Behavioral health providers offer different types of care. This includes therapy, counseling, and medication management. Understanding each provider’s role can help you find the support that’s right for you.
Providers who offer therapy
Behavioral health clinicians, such as licensed clinical social workers (LCSW) and licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT) provide talk therapy. This can help you manage stress, navigate life’s challenges, strengthen relationships, and support your mental well-being. Psychologists can help diagnose and treat mental health conditions. They also provide talk therapy and psychological testing.
Providers who prescribe medication
Your primary care physician (PCP) can diagnose many common mental health conditions, prescribe medication, and help manage your care. If you need more specialized care, a psychiatrist can diagnose and treat more complex mental health conditions, prescribe medication, and help manage your treatment.
Other behavioral health services
In addition to therapy and medication management, some members may benefit from specialized services.
Psychological testing and assessment
Psychological testing can help evaluate ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, learning differences, and other behavioral health conditions like eating disorders. This type of testing is usually done by a psychologist using a specialized assessment.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
ABA is a therapy that helps build skills and supports positive behaviors, often for adults and children with autism spectrum disorder. This therapy is typically provided through specialized ABA agencies. These agencies focus on building communication, as well as social and daily living skills.
We’re here for you
Finding a behavioral health provider can feel stressful. You don’t have to do it alone. Here are some easy ways to get started:
Search online
Use our Find a doctor tool to search for in-network behavioral health providers and ABA agencies or facilities. Need help with your search? Follow our step-by-step guide (PDF 718 KB).
Speak with our expert team
Not sure where to begin? Call the Mental Health Customer Service number on your Blue Shield member ID card. Our dedicated team can explain your benefits and help you take the next step.
Connect with your healthcare provider
Already have a PCP or another trusted provider like an OB/GYN or a pediatrician? They can be a good person to start talking to about how you’re feeling. They can also help answer questions and discuss next steps. You do not need a referral from your PCP to see a behavioral health provider. You can contact one directly. Coverage requirements may vary by health plan, so check your plan benefits. You can also call Customer Service at the number on your ID card if you have questions about your coverage.
Get on-demand support for your daily life
Explore digital tools designed to help you manage stress, emotions, and everyday life challenges.
