Home / Arts and Entertainment / Cecily Strong Slams SAG-AFTRA Over Mental Health Billing Shock
Cecily Strong Slams SAG-AFTRA Over Mental Health Billing Shock
19 Aug
Summary
- New SAG-AFTRA insurance policies caused unexpected high mental health bills.
- The change from Carelon to Anthem dramatically reduced the 'allowed amount' for therapy.
- Members face hundreds to thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket therapy costs monthly.
Cecily Strong has publicly voiced her strong disapproval of SAG-AFTRA's recent mental health insurance policy changes. The union transitioned its behavioral health provider network from Carelon Behavioral Health to Anthem in January 2026. This shift has reportedly caused a dramatic decrease in the 'allowed amount' for mental health services.
As a result, many SAG-AFTRA members are now receiving unexpectedly large bills, with costs escalating to hundreds or thousands of dollars per month. Strong highlighted that numerous members were unaware of the policy change and had not budgeted for these increased out-of-pocket expenses for their therapy and mental health services.
Strong emphasized the critical importance of mental health services within the entertainment industry and urged the union to rectify the situation. She expressed her belief in SAG-AFTRA's commitment to protecting actors and called for a resolution to ensure continued access to vital mental health care for its members.
