Bright Path Joins TRICARE and Optum Networks
Bright Path Behavioral Health’s new network agreements expand insurance access to teen-focused behavioral health
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Wake Forest, NC / Storyteller / Aug 10, 2026 /
Bright Path Behavioral Health, a North Carolina provider of structured mental health treatment for adolescents, announced that it became an in-network provider with TRICARE on Aug. 1 and will become an in-network provider with Optum on Sept. 1. The agreements are intended to help more eligible families use their insurance benefits when seeking behavioral health services for teenagers.
Bright Path provides partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programming for adolescents ages 12 to 18. In-person services are available at its Wake Forest and Hillsborough locations. Its programs also include academic support and coordination with schools during treatment and the transition back to regular attendance.
“The new network relationships are intended to make it easier for eligible military and commercially insured families to explore structured behavioral health care for adolescents,” said Dr. Shantel Sullivan, CEO of Bright Path Behavioral Health. “The timing also supports schools and referral partners as they help families navigate care during the return-to-school period.”
The announcement comes as youth mental health remains a significant concern for families, educators and health care providers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 40% of U.S. high school students reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in 2023. Expanding insurance network participation can address one administrative barrier to care, although benefits, authorizations and cost-sharing requirements vary by individual plan.
Bright Path works with families, schools, outpatient clinicians, hospitals and other referral sources to determine whether its teen mental health treatment programs are appropriate for an adolescent’s needs. Admissions staff can review available programs, discuss the assessment process and verify insurance benefits before enrollment.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the new network agreements take effect?
Bright Path’s in-network status with TRICARE took effect Aug. 1, 2026. Its in-network participation with Optum is scheduled to begin Sept. 1, 2026.
Which Bright Path services may be covered?
Depending on the member’s plan, eligible services may include partial hospitalization or intensive outpatient treatment. Coverage is determined by the insurance plan and may depend on clinical criteria, referrals or prior authorization.
Does in-network status guarantee that treatment is covered?
No. In-network participation does not guarantee payment or eligibility for a particular service. Families should verify benefits, deductibles, copayments, authorization requirements and other plan terms before beginning treatment.
How can families verify their insurance benefits?
Families may call Bright Path at 984-207-3554 or email info@brightpathbh.com. Additional insurance and payment information is available through the organization’s website.
About Bright Path Behavioral Health
Bright Path Behavioral Health provides evidence-based mental health treatment for adolescents ages 12 to 18 in North Carolina. The organization operates locations in Wake Forest and Hillsborough and offers partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs. Bright Path’s facilities are CARF-accredited and licensed by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.
Contact
Bright Path Behavioral Health
203 Capcom Ave., Suite 104, Wake Forest, NC 27587
Phone: 919-444-8745
Email: info@brightpathbh.com
Google Business Profile: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KjgWroHasZ6n7qpY6
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrightPathBehavioral
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brightpathbh
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrightPathBH
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brightpathbh/
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