Hey lemmy,
I’ve been in need of outside mental support for a while now but I’d like to confirm my current options. I was able to get counseling for free through my school but since I graduated I can’t benefit from it anymore. Is the only way now paying private counseling? I checked my spouse health insurance and it covers like $300/year which apparently barely covers two sessions. I’d appreciate any insight and information. Thank you!
It seems like MSP doesn’t cover counselling, even with referral, but perhaps your spouse’s workplace offers something like Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Many jobs that I’ve had in BC that offer benefits also offered an EAP for their employees and spouse/dependents. They usually have a phone number that you can call to setup 5-10 free counselling sessions “per issue”. I’ve had them extend sessions beyond the limit before by calling back, but that is EAP dependent most likely.
EAP can offer other “extras” as well, but again depends on the package the workplace offers its employees.
Reference that may have additional options: https://www.heretohelp.bc.ca/infosheet/getting-help-for-mental-illnesses