Behavioral Health Care

We can help you find the care you need.

It’s normal to have little road bumps from time to time, but when your moods start to affect your behavior or your health, it’s time to seek help. Getting support from a trained behavioral health professional can give you skills to cope and may help you feel better. 

Knowing where to start can feel overwhelming, Take a look at the signs and decide what is best for you. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) can help you get care and learn about your benefits.

Doctor Icon

Your Primary Care Provider (PCP) 

Your PCP is your partner in keeping you healthy. They coordinate all of your medical care, including hospital admissions and referrals to specialists. Not all health plans require a PCP.

Counseling and Therapy Icon

Mental Health Counseling

There are a variety of mental health specialists. Search our networks for therapists and psychologists for all types of mental and behavioral health counseling.

Psychiatry Icon

Psychiatric Therapy 

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor with a specialty in diagnosing mental health disorders who can prescribe medications. Our network has many specialists that can assist in your treatment.

Man Icon

Substance Use Counseling

Substance use counselors help people who suffer from dependency to break the cycle. Your coverage may include inpatient or outpatient support for chemical dependency treatment.

Heart Icon

Headway (Online and In-Person Options)

Headway helps you find an in-network provider based on many criteria; including specialty, location, personality, race, language, ethnicity, and whether you want virtual or in-person care. They can even help you book your first appointment in as soon as 48 hours.

Online

Digital Mental Health (powered by Learn to Live)

Learn to Live is an online, self-guided resource that can help with anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. It’s confidential, available at no cost to BCBSIL members, and accessible anytime, anywhere. Not all health plans include the Learn to Live benefit.

Online

Virtual Care (powered by MDLIVE and Teladoc Health)

Both MDLIVE and Teladoc Health let you schedule appointments with an independently contracted, board-certified therapist or psychiatrist by mobile app, online video or phone. They can help with online counseling, child/behavioral learning issues, stress management, and more. Not all health plans include MDLIVE and Teladoc.

ComPsych

Employee Assistance Program (powered by ComPsych)

ComPsych offers counseling sessions and essential work / life services provided for you and your family to help you tackle life’s everyday challenges. Available at no cost and integrated with your medical network.  Not all health plans include the Employee Assistance Program.

When Should I Get Help?

Common concerns should be addressed with a counselor or your Primary Care Provider (PCP):

  • Anxieties, including worries or fears, that interfere with your day
  • Depression or low mood that lasts more than a week
  • Unstable or rapidly changing mood that changes unpredictability
  • Confusion or problems with concentration and learning
  • Unexplained or lasting irritability or anger
  • Avoiding activities or friends that you used to enjoy
  • Difficulties with social relationships, or having a hard time being able to relate to others
  • Sleeping difficulties, such as sleeping too much or being excessively tired
  • Changes in eating habits; either overeating or lack of appetite
  • Changes in sexual desires
  • Changes in physical health without underlying conditions (such as headaches, stomach aches, or “aches and pains”)

Urgent Issues should be treated immediately:

  • Substance use or concerns of substance use disorder
  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicidal thoughts

If you believe that your life or someone else’s life is in danger, you should call 911 or get to an emergency room immediately.

If you are in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-8255.

Last Updated: June 21, 2024