Cecily Strong Calls Out SAG-AFTRA Over Rising Mental Health Therapy Costs

Cecily Strong is taking a stand for entertainment industry workers facing steep out-of-pocket costs for mental health care. The former *Saturday Night Live* and *Schmigadoon!* star released a passionate public message on Wednesday urging SAG-AFTRA leadership to address growing outrage over recent healthcare policy revisions. Reaching out directly to union decision-makers—including SAG-AFTRA president Sean Astin—Strong underscored just how vital ongoing psychological support is for working performers. She pointed out that actors frequently build years-long therapeutic relationships with trusted out-of-network providers who truly understand the unique pressures of showbiz.

According to Strong's post, union members were hit with unexpected financial burdens when the maximum allowed reimbursement rates for out-of-network mental health care fell significantly earlier this year. That sudden shift forced many performers to absorb huge price hikes simply to keep seeing their existing therapists. The insurance overhaul took effect in January when SAG-AFTRA moved its behavioral health administration over to Anthem, replacing its previous setup with Carelon Behavioral Health. At the time of the transition, union officials promoted the change as a way to unite physical and mental healthcare under a single provider while supposedly expanding network access.

However, many union members quickly discovered that the operational changes resulted in lower reimbursement rates for practitioners outside the primary network. Strong stressed that consistent psychological support is non-negotiable in an industry defined by erratic schedules, intense public scrutiny, and constant financial insecurity. By bringing her concerns into the open, the comedian hopes to spark immediate action from union leadership to restore previous coverage tiers. She emphasized that actors should not have to choose between maintaining their mental well-being and keeping their personal finances afloat. Her appeal highlights broader frustrations among working actors who continue navigating the economic aftermath of recent industry strikes alongside rising living expenses. SAG-AFTRA leadership has faced increasing pressure from members seeking solutions for affected policyholders.