Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, there were countless people across the country who, for various reasons, were unable to get the psychological help they needed. Now, after more than a year of economic, physical, psychological and emotional difficulties, more and more people are in a position where they are actively seeking some form of mental health therapy or counseling.
In particular, the number of people dealing with symptoms of depression or anxiety has tripled or quadrupled since the pandemic began Kaiser Family Foundation. While more people are realizing that therapy can benefit them, it is overall a step in the right direction. Unfortunately, finding a therapist is even more difficult – let alone one who is affordable.
But we’re starting to see this shift, with mental health support slowly becoming more accessible to some. For example, CVS Pharmacy is now offering psychological counseling in some retail stores. Here’s what you need to know about the program and how to use it.
How to get psychological counseling at CVS
The national pharmacy chain launched its mental health pilot program in a dozen stores in Houston, Philadelphia, and Tampa in January 2021. NPR reports.
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Walmart started a similar program back in 2018 and now has 20 locations with mental health clinics across the country. At this point in time, mental health services are only available at CVS pharmacies in Florida, Pennsylvania and Texas, but the program will be expanded further.
It’s also still unclear exactly how much CVS counseling will cost, with the exception of those with Aetna insurance (owned by CVS) who get the service for free. And, NPR reportsCVS has negotiated contracts with other insurance companies to reduce therapy costs. It is still unclear how much a session will cost for those without health insurance.
