Direct Billing for Registered Clinical Counsellors in British Columbia: Everything You Need To Know
It’s finally here!
Updated: August 28, 2024
We are pleased to announce that our direct billing options have expanded, making it even easier for you to access the mental health support you need without the hassle of upfront payments. In addition to our existing insurers, we now offer direct billing to the following organizations:
Greenshield
Crime Victims Assistance Program (CVAP)
ICBC
Vancouver Coastal Health
BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS)
Delta School District
WorkBC
Autism Funding Unit
SAJE Mental Health
BC Teachers’ Federation
Medavie Blue Cross/Pacific Blue Cross
TELUS Health (Alberta Blue Cross, Beneva, Equitable, First Canadian/Johnston Group, Industrial Alliance, Manulife Financial, and TELUS AdjudiCare)
AgSafe
First Nations Health Authority
Longshore Benefits Program
We’re also excited to share that we are always looking to set up direct billing with new insurers. Keep an eye on our website or contact us for the latest updates.
This expansion marks a significant step forward in reducing barriers to mental health care. By offering direct billing, we aim to make your experience as seamless as possible, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—your well-being.
What is Direct Billing?
Direct billing is a payment process where the health service provider bills the client's insurance company directly for services rendered. This means clients no longer need to pay out-of-pocket upfront and then wait for reimbursement from their insurance provider. For many, this simplification can make accessing necessary services much easier.
Benefits for Clients
Financial Relief: One of the most significant advantages of direct billing is the immediate financial relief it provides. Clients can receive the care they need without the stress of paying large sums upfront.
Accessibility: Direct billing lowers the barrier to accessing mental health services. By removing the upfront cost, more individuals are likely to seek help when they need it, leading to better mental health outcomes.
Reduced Administrative Burden: Clients no longer need to handle the paperwork and wait times associated with reimbursement claims, allowing them to focus on their treatment and well-being.
How to Access Direct Billing
For our clients in BC, accessing direct billing involves a few straightforward steps:
Check Insurance Coverage: Clients should verify with their insurance provider whether direct billing for registered clinical counsellors is covered under their plan. Most extended health plan providers in BC cover the services of Registered Clinical Counsellors and Canadian Certified Counsellors.
Provide Necessary Information: Clients will need to provide their insurance details to our clinic, who will handle the billing process directly with the insurance company. Clients will be responsible for monitoring their total coverage amount, applicable co-pay fees, and benefits details. If there are any costs incurred that aren’t covered by your plan provider or if your coverage limit is reached, any additional costs will be billed to you directly.
Begin Counselling: Our team will book your first appointment. After your session, our clinic will charge your card on file for any applicable co-pay fees not covered by your insurance plan and a detailed receipt will be issued to you. Remember, your benefits will mostly likely reset every year in January!
Clients should contact their insurance provider to confirm the specifics of their coverage and any potential limitations or requirements, including maximum coverage amounts.
This is a major step forward in reducing barriers and access to mental health care in BC.
The introduction of direct billing for registered clinical counsellors in British Columbia represents a major advancement in the accessibility and affordability of mental health care. By removing the financial and administrative barriers associated with seeking counselling services, this new system promotes a more inclusive approach to mental health support. Clients stand to benefit from the streamlined process, ultimately leading to better mental health outcomes for individuals across the province.
Meet our team of Registered Clinical Counsellors in Surrey, Vancouver, Chilliwack, or Online and get matched with a therapist today by filling out our New Client Inquiry form.
If you are a resident of BC in need of mental health support, consider exploring the option of direct billing with your registered clinical counsellor and counselling clinic. Check with your insurance provider today and take the first step towards more accessible and affordable mental health care.