Struggling with addiction and mental health can feel overwhelming, but Blue Shield counseling services can help you get the support you need. Understanding how Blue Shield counseling services work can make it easier to access the right care

But how do you find the right treatment and know what’s covered by your plan? Keep reading to learn how Blue Shield of California can support your recovery journey.

What is Blue Shield of California?

Blue Shield started in California in the 1920s. Back then, health insurance was not common, but Blue Shield helped change that by offering prepaid hospital coverage. This meant people could pay a set amount each month and get medical care when they needed it.

Over time, Blue Shield grew into a large network of independent health insurance companies across the country. Today, it helps millions of people get the medical care they need, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and mental health services like counseling.

If you have Blue Shield insurance, you may have access to different healthcare options, depending on your plan. This includes coverage for addiction counseling and recovery programs, which can be a big help if you or someone you know is struggling with substance use.

Blue Shield’s Coverage for Mental Health and Addiction Counseling

Thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), health insurance companies must cover treatment for substance abuse and mental health conditions.

While each plan is different, most Blue Shield policies cover counseling and treatment for:

• Alcohol addiction – Help for those struggling with drinking problems.
  
• Prescription medication abuse – Support for people misusing painkillers or other prescription drugs.
  
• Cocaine addiction – Treatment options for those struggling with cocaine use.
  
• Methamphetamine addiction – Programs to help with meth abuse.

Mental Health and Therapy Options

Blue Shield understands that addiction and mental health are connected. That’s why their plans often include therapy options such as:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – A type of talk therapy that helps you change negative thoughts and behaviors.
  
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – A therapy that helps process past trauma, which can be linked to addiction.
  
• Biofeedback Therapy – A method that helps you gain control over stress and emotions by monitoring body signals like heart rate.

If you need help with addiction or mental health, checking your Blue Shield plan can help you understand what services are covered. There are many options available to support your recovery.

Therapy Options Available Through Blue Shield

Whether you need full-time care or just support while continuing your daily life, there’s a plan that can help. Blue Shield offers coverage through HMO and PPO plans, which may include:

• Detox Programs – The first step in recovery, where your body clears harmful substances in a safe way with medical support.
  
• Inpatient/Residential Rehab – A program where you stay at a treatment center and get round-the-clock care and therapy.
  
• Outpatient Rehab – A flexible option where you live at home but attend therapy sessions and treatment programs regularly.
  
• Prescription Medications – Some plans help cover medications that can ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.
  
• Behavioral Therapy – This includes different types of counseling to help you change harmful habits and build a healthier lifestyle.

Your specific coverage depends on your Blue Shield plan. If you’re unsure what’s available, you can check your policy details or contact customer support to learn more.

Blue Shield Costs

The good news is that substance abuse treatment is considered an essential health benefit under the ACA. This means Blue Shield must cover some form of addiction treatment. However, the exact amount you pay depends on your specific plan.

How Coverage Levels Affect Costs

Blue Shield offers different types of plans. Some have higher monthly costs but cover more treatment options, while others have lower monthly costs but may not cover as much. Here’s what to expect:

• Higher-Coverage Plans – These plans usually have higher monthly premiums (the amount you pay for insurance each month). However, they provide better coverage for addiction treatment, meaning you’ll pay less out of pocket when you go to therapy or rehab. If you need intensive treatment, like inpatient rehab, a higher-coverage plan may save you money in the long run.
  
• Lower-Cost Plans – These plans come with lower monthly premiums; they make them more affordable upfront. However, they may have higher deductibles and copays, meaning you’ll pay more out of pocket when you get treatment. If you only need occasional counseling or outpatient care, this type of plan could still be a good option.

Other Costs to Consider

Even with Blue Shield coverage, you may still have some out-of-pocket expenses, such as:

• Deductibles – The amount you must pay before your insurance starts covering costs.
  
• Copays – A fixed amount you pay for each therapy session or doctor’s visit.
  
• Coinsurance – A percentage of the total cost that you pay after meeting your deductible.

How to Find Out Your Costs

To know exactly what you’ll pay for addiction treatment, check your Blue Shield policy details. You can:

• Look at your insurance plan documents online.
  
• Call Blue Shield customer service for answers.
  
• Ask your treatment provider if they accept your plan and what your costs will be.

If cost is a concern, there may be financial assistance programs or sliding-scale fees available at certain treatment centers. It’s always a good idea to ask about payment options so you can get the help you need without too much financial stress.

Finding a Blue Shield-Covered Therapist

Blue Shield offers different ways to connect with counselors, whether in person or online. Here’s how you can find the right therapist for you.

Use Blue Shield’s Provider Directory

Blue Shield has an online provider directory where you can search for therapists who accept your insurance.¹ 

To use it:

1. Log in to your Blue Shield account on their website.
   
2. Search for therapists in your area who specialize in addiction counseling or mental health treatment.
   
3. Check their details, like their experience, the type of therapy they offer, and whether they are accepting new patients.

If you’re unsure how to use the directory, you can also call Blue Shield’s customer service for help finding a provider.

Tips for Choosing the Right Counselor

Not every therapist is the right fit for you. Here are some things to consider when picking a counselor:

• Specialization – Look for someone who has experience treating addiction, anxiety, depression, or any other issues you need help with.
  
• Therapy Style – Some therapists use structured methods like CBT, while others focus more on open conversations. Think about what works best for you.
  
• Availability – Make sure the therapist has appointment times that fit your schedule.
  
• Comfort Level – You should feel comfortable talking to your therapist. If you don’t feel a connection after a few sessions, it’s okay to try someone else.

Resources and Support

Blue Shield also covers different support services, including crisis hotlines, virtual therapy options, and treatment centers.

Helplines and Crisis Support

If you’re in a crisis or need immediate help, you can call a helpline:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 for free, 24/7 support.
  
• SAMHSA National Helpline – Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for addiction and mental health resources.
  
• Blue Shield Customer Support – Check your insurance plan for addiction treatment options.

Telehealth and Virtual Therapy Options

If meeting in person is difficult, Blue Shield also covers telehealth therapy. This allows you to talk to a therapist over video calls, phone calls, or even text-based sessions. Virtual therapy can be a great option if:

• You live in a remote area.
  
• You have a busy schedule.
  
• You feel more comfortable talking from home.

To find a virtual therapist, check Blue Shield’s directory or ask if your chosen provider offers telehealth services.

Treatment Centers That Accept Blue Shield

If you’re looking for treatment covered by Blue Shield, consider:

• Outpatient – Oceanrockhealth.com provides flexible addiction treatment while you continue daily life. Call today to check your coverage.
  
• Inpatient – Southcoastcounselingoc.org offers residential treatment for those needing full-time care. Call to learn more.

Getting help is an important step, and Blue Shield counseling services make it easier by offering different ways to connect with treatment and support centers. Take the time to find the right treatment that works for you.

Source:

1. Find a Doctor, Dentist, Hospital, Vision, Urgent Care, Pharmacy, Health – Blue Shield of California. (2025). Blueshieldca.com. https://www.blueshieldca.com/fad/home