Forest Ferns Counseling · Insurance & access

Therapists who accept Blue Care Network (BCN)
in Ann Arbor & Ypsilanti

Find a Blue Care Network-accepting clinician for trauma therapy, life transitions and other mental health concerns.

Our Deaf-led, text-friendly practice helps people find care without a phone call. In-person appointments take place in Ypsilanti, near Ann Arbor; telehealth is available across Michigan with select clinicians.

Find a BCN therapistText us: (810) 394-8921
Start with your exact plan

BCN participation at Forest Ferns is clinician-specific. Dr. Sneha Shankar, Cynthia Schiffman-Szegda and Dr. Mel Whalen accept BCN. Tell us your exact product; we’ll check network participation and any referral or authorization requirements before booking.

Meet your therapy options

These clinicians accept BCN. Tell us whom you’d like to see, or ask us to help you choose. Current openings, fit and your exact plan will be confirmed before scheduling.

Dr. Sneha Shankar

Adults, trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression and life transitions.

In person in Ypsilanti · Michigan telehealth

Read Sneha’s bio

Cynthia Schiffman-Szegda

Adults, complex trauma, PTSD, dissociation and MEMI.

Michigan telehealth

Read Cynthia’s bio

Founder Dr. Mel Whalen also accepts BCN and provides telehealth. Ask the practice about current availability.

Understand the cost before you begin

Having an insurance card does not tell you what a session will cost. Ask your plan about outpatient mental health benefits with the specific clinician and appointment format you plan to use.

  • Is this clinician in my plan’s network?
  • Do I have a copay, or does a deductible apply first?
  • Will I owe coinsurance after the deductible?
  • Are telehealth sessions covered with this clinician?
  • Does this service need a referral or prior authorization?

We’ll help clarify participation and provide an estimated cost. Your insurer determines coverage and final claim payment. Forest Ferns does not accept Medicaid plans.

Questions people ask

Can I choose any Forest Ferns clinician with BCN?

Our current BCN options are Sneha, Cynthia and Mel. The other clinicians listed on our website accept BCBS, Aetna and Priority Health, but are not listed as BCN options. We’ll help you choose among the eligible clinicians.

Can I meet in person?

Sneha offers in-person sessions in Ypsilanti. Cynthia and Mel provide telehealth. See the office and plan your visit.

What should I include in my request?

Your preferred clinician, exact plan name, appointment format and a few days or times that work. For a child or teen, include their age. A few words about the support you’re seeking are enough; keep detailed clinical information for secure intake.

One short message can start the match

You can begin before you have all the answers. Use Get Started, request a clinician by name and tell us your plan. We’ll confirm the practical details together.

Request a therapist

Check your benefits using the BCBSM and BCN member provider search or member services number on your card. Plan information and participation can change.