Morneau Shepell announced today that its internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT) program, AbilitiCBT™, will now be offered to individuals as an approved paramedical benefit through several insurance companies. This type of service is typically provided by professionals outside the public health system. This launch marks the first time that Morneau Shepell will provide iCBT directly to individuals.
Morneau Shepell's AbilitiCBT™ delivers best practice, research-based iCBT through a digital platform that combines therapist guidance with interactive exercises and activities to improve on traditional therapy. This state-of-the art program focuses on changing negative thought patterns, emotional responses and behaviours to reduce absenteeism and improve engagement, shorten return-to-work timeframes and reduce the costs of managing employees who are living with mental health conditions.
"Mental health challenges are becoming more prevalent in the workforce than ever before, resulting in a decline in workplace productivity and overall employee wellbeing," said Stephen Liptrap, president and chief executive officer. "One in five employees will deal with a mental health concern in any given year. Employers are beginning to understand the need to invest in accessible programs that maximize care and support the performance of their team. AbilitiCBT™ closes this gap by optimizing employers' benefits programs to include iCBT as a reimbursable paramedical expense."
According to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, the economic burden of mental illness in Canada is an estimated $51 billion per year, including healthcare costs, lost productivity and reductions in health-related quality of life. With mental health claims costing more and taking longer to treat, an evident need exists for a long-term, structured mental health program that is easy for employees to use. Since launching AbilitiCBT™, Morneau Shepell has partnered with a number of employers and insurance carriers.
"Recognizing iCBT as an eligible paramedical service represents a major shift in mental health support," said Nigel Branker, president, health and productivity solutions. "Previously, individuals could only get iCBT support through their employer's employee and family assistance program or disability management program. Enabling access directly through benefit program insurance providers will allow employees to easily integrate therapy into their lives and reduce time spent away from the office for therapy appointments."
