Great-West Life announced June 13 that it will be offering eligible group plan members access to Morneau Shepell’s internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT) platform.
“CBT is proven to be one of the most effective therapeutic methods in treating a number of mental health conditions, but many people face challenges in gaining access to psychiatrists, psychologists or therapists,” said Diane Bezdikian, Senior Vice-President of Plan Member Services for Great-West Life (GWL). “With iCBT, eligible Great-West Life plan members who are diagnosed with depression or anxiety will have quick access to therapy in English or French, from anywhere, at any time, without having to travel to and from a therapist’s office.”
Available to select employers
Effective June 4, the iCBT platform became available to select employers in Calgary, Regina, Winnipeg, Ottawa, Halifax, St. John’s, and their surrounding areas. GWL says it intends to expand the iCBT offering to the rest of Canada as the effectiveness of the service is demonstrated.
The insurer points out that unlike many online services, the iCBT program does not replace therapists with a technology tool. Instead, it “combines a therapist with a state of the art program to create an effective platform to improve on traditional therapy.”
A tailored individual program
The iCBT portal can be accessed via a personal computer, laptop or smartphone. The program enables eligible plan members to “receive guidance from a dedicated therapist who will provide clinical expertise and tailor an individual program to suit the needs of each member,” says GWL.
The platform also includes a return-to-work module which is added to the treatment program of any individual who is preparing to return to work after a period of absence. The module is focused on managing anxiety and coping strategies.
In addition, through this program, crisis counselling is available around the clock, and in-person counselling is also available, as determined by the therapist, says GWL.
Tackling rising disability costs
“We are pleased to be the first insurer to make Morneau Shepell’s iCBT platform part of our disability management services,” says Roger Maguet, Senior Vice-President of Plan Sponsor Services for Great-West Life. “With customers at the centre of what we do, we are tackling the issues that impact workplace productivity, absenteeism, and rising disability costs through smart solutions like iCBT that encourage healthy living, minimize the risk of disability, and facilitate successful return to work.”
