Each of these programs begins with an online assessment, which, depending on the program, can take anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes to complete. The assessment is reviewed by a therapist to ensure the program is suitable for the individual, and the information is used to tailor a therapeutic approach that best suits their needs.

With most programs, an initial consultation with a therapist by video or by phone begins the process. The individual follows the program online or via an app that’s downloaded on a smartphone or tablet. A therapist will review their progress and check in along the way.

iCBT programs involve therapist guided modules, including activities and exercises to learn and apply cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) skills to real life situations. With iCBT, members can work through the modules at their own pace, at any time, from wherever they choose.

Working directly with a therapist, either in-person or virtually, on CBT skills would usually be during regularly scheduled sessions. The therapist may also employ a number of possible techniques during the course of therapy, rather than focusing solely on CBT. If included with your Pacific Blue Cross benefits package, therapy sessions would be covered under ‘paramedical practitioner’ coverage (practitioner types can include Psychologist, Social Worker or Clinical Counsellor, depending on plan specific coverages).

iCBT is added for most groups and individuals that have coverage for psychology or counselling benefits. Members can log into their Member Profile account to confirm. It’s available to Pacific Blue Cross plan members and their dependents.

It’s entirely up to them. Learn more about each iCBT provider and their programs.

No. Pacific Blue Cross has done a thorough review of each of these programs based on eligibility criteria that uses evidence-based research conducted by the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH). Therefore, only vendors who have been through this review are included as Eligible Vendors for claims reimbursement. We will continue to evaluate other iCBT vendors to augment this list.

It depends on the program and how quickly the individual works through it. They vary between 6 to 20 weeks to complete.

Each of the online CBT providers has a different cost structure for their programs. Plan members pay the cost up front and submit the claim to Pacific Blue Cross for reimbursement, up to your plan’s annual maximum under existing Psychology benefit limits. If your plan offers a Health Spending Account, it can be used to claim the balance, if applicable.

No. They should immediately contact a physician or a mental health professional for assistance.