Therapy for NYSHIP Members

If you’re enrolled in NYSHIP (New York State Health Insurance Program)—including The Empire Plan—you may be able to use your benefits for therapy at BeWELL Psychotherapy’s Flatiron Manhattan office and/or via virtual sessions.

This guide is for New York public-sector employees, educators, and participating employer groups who want a clear path to starting therapy and getting the most out of their plan.

BeWELL offers in-person therapy in Manhattan (near Flatiron) and virtual therapy options.

BeWELL’s Flatiron Manhattan Office

Flatiron address: 928 Broadway, Suite 405, New York, NY 10010
Phone: 646-863-0101
Email: contact@bewellpsychotherapy.com

How to Use Your Benefits at BeWELL Psychotherapy (NYC)

NYSHIP is used by New York State employees and many participating public employers. One public Civil Service list shows Participating Employers with Dental and Vision Benefits, and it specifically notes that if you don’t know whether you have a benefit, you should contact your agency health benefits administrator.

If you work for one of these Participating Employers (examples from that public list), this page is especially relevant:

• Battery Park City Authority

• Long Island Power Authority (LIPA)

• NYS Thruway Authority

• NYS Canal Corporation

• NYS Dormitory Authority (DASNY)

• NYS Bridge Authority

• Roswell Park Cancer Center

• State University Construction Fund

• Nassau County Interim Finance Authority

(If your employer isn’t on that specific example list, you may still be covered by NYSHIP through another participating employer/agency. When in doubt, your employer’s Health Benefits Administrator can confirm.)

Can I use NYSHIP / Empire Plan benefits at BeWELL?

Many NYSHIP members can use benefits in one of two ways:

1. In-network (varies by provider and plan)
   Some people prefer to work with a therapist who is directly in-network. The Empire Plan maintains a provider directory to help members search for participating providers.

2. Out-of-network reimbursement (common for therapy)
   It’s also very common for therapy practices to support out-of-network benefits, where you pay for sessions and then your plan reimburses you according to your coverage.

BeWELL explains that they provide in-house billing support to help clients navigate out-of-network claims and maximize benefits (depending on plan rules and deductible status).

How to use your NYSHIP benefits for therapy at BeWELL (step-by-step)

Step 1: Confirm your mental health coverage (a quick check)

Ask your plan (or check your benefits portal) about:

• Out-of-network mental health benefits

• Your deductible and whether you’ve met it

• Reimbursement rates for psychotherapy

• Any prior authorization requirements

To reach Empire Plan program administrators, New York State Civil Service lists the main number: 1-877-7-NYSHIP (1-877-769-7447).
Civil Service also notes NYSHIP’s mental health/substance use referral line is available at 1-877-7-NYSHIP via the appropriate menu options.

Step 2: Start care in Flatiron (or virtual)

BeWELL offers in-person therapy in Manhattan and virtual therapy options, so you can choose what best fits your schedule.

Step 3: Use BeWELL’s billing support to pursue reimbursement

BeWELL notes their in-house billing department can help with out-of-network claims once deductibles are met, with the goal of reducing out-of-pocket cost where possible under your plan.

Why NYSHIP members often choose out-of-network therapy

Many NYSHIP members run into the same friction points:

• Difficulty finding an in-network therapist with availability

• Preference for a specific specialty or therapist match

• Desire for flexible scheduling (virtual + in-person options)

Out-of-network benefits can be a practical way to get started sooner—especially when you have billing support and clear documentation for reimbursement.

FAQ: NYSHIP + therapy in Flatiron

Do I need a referral?
It depends on your plan and whether you’re pursuing in-network or out-of-network reimbursement. If you’re unsure, call your plan and ask what’s required for outpatient mental health benefits.

Can I use HSA/FSA?
BeWELL accepts HSA/FSA payments, which can be a helpful option for many clients.

How do I get started?
You can request a consultation and get matched with a therapist through BeWELL’s intake process.

Taking care of your Mental Health is an investment toward the most well YOU.

We’re here to support you every step of the way. At BeWELL, we believe that investing in therapy and other wellness modalities is an investment in a healthier, happier future.

Let us help you on this journey by making it as affordable and accessible as possible. Meet our team,  read our blog for mental health insights, or contact us today to get started.