Be an Informed Consumer

• Before selecting your insurance plan, find out what mental health benefits are provided with each option available to you.  Select a plan with maximum flexibility.  Read your policy carefully.  Get your questions answered before you sign up.

• Discuss with your therapist exactly what information your insurer requires for initial and ongoing authorization of benefits usage.  Assess any possible impact for you and y our family if this information becomes accessible to others.

• If paying for therapy privately is too difficult for you, discuss with your therapist the possibilities of flexible fees or payment schedules

• Talk to the human resources department at your workplace.  Find out what kinds of information your employer collects and employee's use of medical benefits.  Advocate for confidentiality.

• Get involved politically.  Write or call your congressman and state representative about your concerns and opinions.  Follow the national and state health care debates and speak out for what you need.