When it’s time for therapy, 
know your options.

If a mental health concern is affecting your teen’s schoolwork, friendships or family relationships, it may be time to seek professional help. While counseling can’t replace the vital role you play in your teen’s emotional well-being, it can provide your teen with the tools they need to make positive changes in their life. Here are a few pointers to help you get started.

Consider these first steps.

Schedule a check-up with your teen’s pediatrician.

• The doctor will check for physical symptoms, privately ask your teen some important questions and recommend next steps for care if needed.

Decide the type of counselor your teen may need.

• Therapist – Can provide in-office or virtual counseling but cannot prescribe medications
• Psychiatrist – Can prescribe or refill a medication; sometimes provides counseling
• Specialized therapist – Can address the unique challenges of adolescence or specific areas of care, such as LGBTQ+ support

Connect to care that’s right for your teen.

• Ask your pediatrician, friends or relatives if they know of a therapist they would recommend.
• Log in to myCigna and search by condition (anxiety, depression, etc.), type of provider, and whether you prefer in-person visits or virtual care (phone or video visits).
• Click to chat with a personal guide on myCigna^® who can help you find an in-network therapist for your teen.

Get your teen involved in the decision.

• Once you’ve narrowed down your search, share the therapy options with your teen so they feel part of the process.

Get your teen on board.

It’s not always easy to get your kid to agree that they need outside help. “I’m too busy” or “I lean on my friends for help” are common things teens say to avoid seeking care. You may try telling them to think of a therapist like a coach, someone who can teach them new skills to improve their “game.” Do assure them that anything they say in counseling will be kept private. And model self-care by taking care of your own mental health—walk, the walk as they say.

Give virtual therapy a try.

Your Cigna Healthcare^® plan may include virtual or online therapy options, including MD Live by Evernorth^®, or app-based providers, such as Brightside and more.* Visit myCigna to learn more.

Show your support.

• Validate your teen’s feelings by actively acknowledging their emotions without judgement.
• Communicate with your teen’s counselor, as needed, and take part in their counseling if asked (and if it’s ok with your kid).
• Respect your teen’s privacy. It’s important for them to understand that counseling is a safe place to express their feelings.
• Encourage your teen to stick with it. It may take time for them to build trust with their counselor. Changing thought patterns and habits doesn’t happen overnight.

* Not all plans include the same virtual care options. Check your coverage details on myCigna.com.