Introducing Cerebral Way: Your Personalized Path to Feeling Better

We understand that finding affordable mental healthcare may feel like a daunting task. With rising medication and therapy costs, many people can find it hard to access the support they need within their budget. We're on a steadfast mission to change that. Here, we’ll guide you through using insurance for mental health services at Cerebral, making it easier and more affordable to get the care you deserve. {MiniWidget:Generic} More insurance partners, more access At Cerebral, we continuously collaborate with insurance partners to expand access to our online mental health services. This expansion aims to provide more people with access to our affordable therapy and psychiatry options, potentially reducing cost as a barrier. By working with various insurance providers and growing our partnerships, we strive to offer affordable therapy and medication management to all who need it. Check your insurance coverage Understanding your insurance coverage is essential if you’re looking for low-cost therapy, affordable medication management, or both. With Cerebral, you can connect with licensed prescribers and therapists who accept: Cigna BlueCross BlueShield United Healthcare & Optum and more Availability is based on state, and you can find the full details here. Wondering if you can use your insurance for Cerebral? Here are the steps you can take to check your insurance coverage for therapy and/or medication management: Verify with Cerebral: With your insurance information in hand, you can check your coverage. If your plan is eligible, we'll onboard you with a credentialed clinician. Review your benefits: Look through your insurance plan details to understand the extent of your coverage, including copays, deductibles, and any out-of-pocket costs. It never hurts to double-check. You could also reach out to your insurance company to verify if they cover mental health services, including therapy sessions and medication management for mental health conditions, under your plan. Because we're working toward adding new partners to provide low-cost therapy and medication management, you always have the option of signing up and using your insurance at a later date if your carrier becomes a partner. How it works After you’ve confirmed your eligibility, getting started with Cerebral is easy. Here’s how it works: Create your account in a few easy steps, and we’ll set you up with an in-network plan. Choose your in-network clinician and schedule a session on a weekday, night, or weekend.  Collaborate with your care team on a personalized plan with progress tracking and ongoing support. Focus on your care — we bill your insurance provider for you. The majority of our clients are able to see someone within a week, and while most of them are happy with their first choice, you can pick a new one whenever you want for any reason.  Cost of Cerebral subscription benefits With insurance, you can access all subscription plan benefits for $30 per month. This fee includes a range of services and features designed to support your mental health goals, including: Quick access to care (typically less than a week)  Easy online scheduling and session reminders Flexibility to choose your preferred in-network clinician  A personalized treatment plan with progress tracking Unlimited messaging with your care team between visits  In-app resources and therapeutic exercises  Complimentary lab work at partner labs when clinically appropriate for bipolar treatment Access to CerebralRx, our at-home medication delivery service with free 2-day delivery It’s important to note that CerebralRx medication costs are billed separately and are not covered by insurance benefits. If you choose to fill your prescription through another pharmacy, your insurance may cover those medications. You may also be responsible for additional cost share fees such as copays and deductibles. Understanding cost share Depending on your insurance plan, you could be responsible for additional cost-share fees like copayments, coinsurance, or the full cost of services if you haven't met your deductible. If you’re newer to the ins and outs of insurance (or, understandably, get a little confused by it), here’s what those terms mean: Copayment (copay): A fixed amount you pay for covered services at the time of your visit. Coinsurance: A percentage of the costs of a covered healthcare service you pay after your deductible. Deductible: The amount you need to pay out of pocket for healthcare services before your health insurance plan begins to cover costs. Your insurance company will send you an explanation of benefits (EOB) outlining any additional costs. For copays and your deductible, you might be able to offset costs by using tax-free dollars from a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA). No one likes surprise bills, so we also notify you of any owed cost share fees 7 days before charging the payment method on file. Cerebral Network and clinicians At Cerebral, we offer a network of fully licensed and trained prescribers and therapists that you can connect with all from the comfort and convenience of your home. At Cerebral, we display profiles of in-network providers, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your needs and is in-network with your payer. When using insurance for Cerebral, you’ll be able to meet with your care team whenever clinically appropriate. We’ll manage all the billing and claim submissions for you so you can focus on getting high-quality care. You can also message our care team for support between sessions. They're available during business hours and will respond to you within 1-3 business days. Other ways to help cover costs If you would prefer not to use your in-network coverage or aren't covered by insurance or one of our partners, there are other options.  Using FSA/HSA funds FSA or HSA accounts allow you to set aside pre-tax money for medical expenses, often including mental health services. You can absolutely use your HSA or FSA card as your primary payment method in your Cerebral account. Just a reminder: These accounts could also be used to cover copays and your deductible. It's always helpful to double-check and get more information. Contact your insurance provider to find out more about HSA or FSA options and how to submit receipts for reimbursement. They can also provide answers to any questions you have about ​​submitting a claim, using your HSA or FSA funds, or receiving reimbursements. How to get reimbursed for out-of-network services If you decide to choose an out-of-network clinician, you can request a special type of itemized receipt (known as a superbill) that typically includes: Client contact information  Provider information   Your diagnosis in the form of an ICD code  CPT code(s)  Dates of service Itemized list of costs Referrer contact information (if applicable) Our team would be happy to assist you with this process — all included with your subscription plan. Then, all that’s left is submitting it to your insurance provider for reimbursement. How to get one: To request a superbill, simply log into your account and send us a message. Requesting verification of your payer when added We’re continuously working to onboard new payers to expand our insurance coverage. If your insurance provider isn't currently on our list, as a Cerebral client, we'll notify you via email when new partners are added. This way, you can start using your plan benefits as soon as your carrier becomes available. Expanding insurance partnerships At Cerebral, we understand the importance of accessible mental health care. That's why we're committed to expanding our insurance partnerships to provide more people with the support they need. We're actively working to onboard new providers so our clients can have more options for affordable mental health care. Navigating insurance coverage for mental health services can be challenging, but we’re doing what we can to make it easier. Our expanded insurance partners and low-cost monthly subscription plans for insured clients can help you receive high-quality care with the convenience and affordability you deserve. Check your insurance coverage today and take the first step toward better mental health. Images by diana.grytsku and freepik on Freepik.

Historically, our society has focused health-related conversations on the physical, treating mental illness as something private, strengthening the stigma that keeps many from seeking help. In reality, 90% of the American public believes we are in a mental health crisis, with 33% of American adults citing that they have felt anxious “often or always” within the last year according to a survey conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation and CNN. In the wake of global, unprecedented challenges, the demand for accessible and effective mental health services has never been more urgent. However, stigma and limited accessibility has created a critical need for a digital revolution and a new era of mental health support that breaks down these barriers. Barriers to access: why are so few people getting treatment? Accessibility Accessibility remains a significant barrier to mental health treatment, particularly for underserved populations. Similarly, mental health challenges, traumas, and triggers can strike at any moment, underscoring the critical need for improved accessibility to care outside the constraints of traditional healthcare models. Addressing these accessibility barriers requires a multifaceted approach, including expanding offerings, increasing the diversity of providers, implementing culturally competent care practices, and investing in community-based initiatives to reach those most in need. Effective Care Even if patients can overcome the issue of accessibility, they will often experience a barrier to effective care. While access is essential, the quality and effectiveness of care is equally crucial. In many cases, individuals may not receive evidence based treatments tailored to their specific needs leading to less than ideal outcomes. Disparities in treatment modalities and lack of treatment measurements can contribute to unoptimized quality of care. Furthermore, the rampant stigma surrounding mental illness may deter individuals from seeking help altogether, slowing their access to effective interventions and prolonging silent suffering. Trust in the Healthcare System Combined, these barriers continue to break down trust in the healthcare space. For underserved communities, a data-driven approach is not only an innovation, but a foundational standard. Building trust and encouraging the public to engage in their mental health care looks like proactive care, meeting people where they are, and providing products and services with long term, meaningful value. While the mental health space has made transformative strides in the last four years since the COVID-19 pandemic, we must move beyond telehealth 1.0 in order to set up consumers for their utmost success. Cerebral’s Mission: Creating A New Era of Care  The reality for many patients is that it has been very hard for them to get help. We believe that improving the quality of care requires addressing both effectiveness of and access to healthcare. Cerebral is creating a new era of mental health care that goes beyond a static virtual model. By delivering dynamic care that combines a personalized, integrated approach with innovative accessibility, we’re empowering each individual to take control of their health on their terms. And the outcomes are the proof: As of March 2024, the majority of Cerebral clients with moderate to severe anxiety and/or depression report a significant reduction in GAD-7 and/or PHQ-9 scores. We understand that outcomes and measurement are sorely lacking in the mental health space, a bar which must be raised. By tracking meaningful and actionable clinical quality indicators, we monitor effectiveness, efficiency, safety, and timeliness of care, adding value beyond the traditional mental health care model. Finally, the Cerebral Way takes radical transparency seriously. Our clinicians take your goals, needs, and life experiences into account so you get a personalized plan for treatment. This collaborative approach means you will know what to expect along your way to mental wellness. Plus, all Cerebral clinicians are thoroughly vetted, credentialed, and trained to provide the highest level of care, driving home the mission of addressing both effectiveness and trust. What’s next? The current standard of effectiveness and access is not enough. At Cerebral, we are committed to facing this challenge head on and we will continue to create affordable, high-quality mental health care for everyone. It’s time to take control of your health on your terms.

Therapy is a complex and often misunderstood aspect of modern mental healthcare. As the destigmatization of mental health has grown, so too has the interest and awareness of therapy.  However, with this comes a range of myths and misunderstandings that could be preventing people from seeking the help they need.  Busting seven all-too-common myths, this article serves as an essential guide for anyone curious about therapy and mental health. Myth 1: Therapy is only for people with severe mental illness Up until recent decades, mental health treatment was often reserved for severe or acute psychiatric conditions. That could be where this misconception comes from, but there also still can be a limited understanding of the scope and purpose of therapy.  This myth is one of the most damaging ones, as it overshadows the everyday benefits of therapy and creates a barrier for many individuals who may be in need of help but do not feel like their problems are ‘serious enough.’  Fact: Therapy can help you with a wide range of issues The truth is, therapy can benefit anyone who wants to understand themselves better or improve their life in any way. In-person and virtual therapists are equipped to tackle a vast array of issues, from everyday stress to diagnosable mental health conditions.  The bottom line: It's not about the severity of the problem; it's about the opportunity for growth and healing that therapy provides. Myth 2: People will think I’m crazy or weak if I go to therapy Historically, mental health issues have been cloaked in shame and secrecy, leading to the erroneous belief that needing psychological help equates to a personal failing or a lack of mental stability.  This notion is magnified by cultural narratives that valorize self-reliance and position emotional vulnerability as a weakness. These harmful misconceptions can discourage people from seeking the help they need, fearing judgment or ostracization from others.  The truth: Being in therapy is a sign of self-awareness and strength Going to therapy is not a sign of weakness because it’s all about confronting personal challenges and working toward improved mental resilience. Seeing a therapist is a brave and proactive step towards mental well-being. Society's perceptions are shifting, and more people than ever are recognizing the benefits of therapy. In fact, those who attend therapy are often admired for their courage and willingness to prioritize their health. Think of it this way: ​​You wouldn’t judge someone for going to the gym to improve their physical health. Going to therapy is no different, as it’s all about fortifying one’s mental health. Myth 3: You have to see a therapist forever People often harbor the belief that once someone starts therapy, they're bound to it for life due to the depth and complexity of mental health issues.  This view may be influenced by depictions in media that dramatize therapy as an intensely long-term commitment or from anecdotal stories of individuals who have been in therapy for many years.  Fact: The choice to continue therapy is fundamentally yours Therapy duration is highly variable and dependent on individual circumstances. For some, short-term therapy may be enough to address immediate concerns and provide tools for managing mental health. For others, long-term work may be necessary.  A good therapist will work with you to set clear goals and reevaluate your progress as you go.  The bottom line: The aim is for you to gain the skills you need and feel comfortable managing your mental health independently. Myth 4: Therapy is too expensive It’s a common misconception that it’s an unaffordable luxury. The societal stigma surrounding mental health can contribute to the hesitation to invest in therapy, as people might not view it with the same necessity as physical health services.  Particularly when it comes to in-person therapy, the cost of a session can also vary widely depending on a variety of factors like qualifications, location, and session length. This can lead to the perception that it’s prohibitively expensive.  The truth: Affordable therapy options are available Online therapy options are typically more affordable than traditional in-person therapy, which can often range from $100 to $200 per session. One reason why online therapy often costs less than that range is because teletherapy has removed a lot of the barriers that come with in-person therapy., For instance, Cerebral offers different monthly online therapy subscriptions based on your needs and budget. You also don’t need to worry about transportation costs, arranging childcare, or any of the other expenses or logistics that come with traditional therapy.  Additional options to make therapy work within your budget can also include: Finding a therapist that offers sliding-scale fees based on income Selecting a provider that works with your insurance to minimize out-of-pocket costs  Searching for a community health center that offers affordable therapy services Determining if your employer offers any mental health benefits Seeing if the cost qualifies as an HSA/FSA expenditure if you have an account The cost of in-person or teletherapy should be viewed as an investment in your long-term well-being. It’s also important to recognize the value it provides. The bottom line: Therapy can be an accessible and critical component of overall healthcare. It just may take a little time to find a solution that fits your financial needs.  Myth 5: All therapy is the same Some may mistakenly think of therapy in broad, undifferentiated strokes — envisioning a patient lying on a couch, talking while a therapist passively listens and occasionally asks, ‘And how does that make you feel?’  Fact: Therapy is a highly personalized experience  There are a diverse array of therapeutic approaches designed to cater to a wide range of psychological needs. What works for one person may not work for another. Whether you’re seeing a virtual therapist or an in-person one, sessions will be tailored to your specific needs.  Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), psychodynamic therapy, and art therapy are just a few examples. Each approach has its own philosophy and methods. Explore more: What Are The Different Types of Therapy? It's important to do your research and find an in-person or online therapist who uses an approach that resonates with you. Myth 6: Therapy is about exploring childhood trauma The belief that therapy primarily revolves around dissecting childhood trauma might stem from the prominence of Freudian psychoanalysis in popular culture, which often emphasizes exploring early life experiences as the root of adult psychological issues.  The truth: It’s just as much about addressing the present and the future Why the past matters: The purpose of exploring past events is to understand how those experiences may be affecting your current mental state and behaviors. However, therapy is not solely about uncovering trauma. It's about helping you do the following:  Build better relationships  Improve self-esteem and self-worth Manage stress Develop coping strategies Identify needs and wants Develop action plans to meet goals Navigate change  All of these outcomes are applicable to your present and future experiences, and ultimately will help you lead a more fulfilling life. Myth 7: I’ll feel immediately better after each therapy session Many people might hold the misconception that in-person or online therapy offers a quick fix. This expectation may stem from the desire for instant gratification. Our fast-paced, solution-oriented culture often anticipates immediate results in many areas of life, including self-improvement and health.  Additionally, portrayals of therapy in the media can contribute to this misunderstanding, where characters are often shown having breakthroughs and resolving deep-seated issues in a single session.  Fact: Therapy is a process In some cases, you may experience relief or clarity after a session, but the work of therapy has different stages, and some require more time than others. Whether you choose in-person or virtual, therapy will lead to gradual progress with consistent effort. Like any form of personal growth, the path to emotional well-being will include peaks, valleys, and plateaus. Remember: Feeling worse before feeling better is not uncommon as therapy can bring up difficult emotions and challenges. This is all part of the healing process. Removing the stigma of therapy Therapy is a highly valuable tool for maintaining good mental health, yet it continues to be plagued by outdated beliefs and misconceptions. Gaining a more accurate understanding of the practice ensures that we don’t perpetuate a harmful stigma of mental health that can lead to people neglecting their mental well-being or delaying this treatment option.  Whether you have a diagnosed mental illness or are simply looking for ways to live a more meaningful life, therapy can provide the treatment, guidance, and support you need. At Cerebral, we develop personalized plans to ensure you get the most value and benefit from our unique results-oriented program. Discover how our online therapy experience is different from other services. Image by Freepik.