MetLife Expands New Hampshire Paid Family Medical Leave Program With Mental Wellbeing Offering

February 04, 2025 at 08:00 AM EST

MetLife becomes first carrier to offer mental health and wellbeing support within its state Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML) program through a collaboration with TELUS Health

MetLife, a leading provider of disability and absence management solutions today announces a new initiative, becoming the first carrier to include mental health and wellbeing services within a Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML) program. To enhance mental health support, the expanded program now offers TELUS Health’s Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to employees enrolled in the New Hampshire Paid Family and Medical Leave plan (NH PFML).

The inclusion of TELUS Health CBT in MetLife's NH PFML program marks a significant milestone in the company's commitment to holistic health. The program will not only enhance NH PFML participants’ overall wellbeing but expand their benefit options beyond traditional paid leave. Recognizing the growing importance of mental health in the workplace, MetLife’s aim is to provide employees with the necessary resources to manage mental health challenges while creating a healthier and more productive workforce for NH employers.

MetLife’s newly added TELUS Health CBT solution provides participants with an initial clinical assessment and consultation with a dedicated therapist, structured modules and check-ins, and guided support, helping NH workers address anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, OCD, insomnia and more.

“This initiative is particularly impactful for employees who may have previously faced barriers to accessing mental health services due to cost, stigma, or lack of availability. MetLife's inclusion of mental wellbeing support in the NH PFML program addresses this gap, ensuring that all employees enrolled in the program have access to the support they need,” said Juliane Kowalski, head of Absence and Disability business, Group Benefits at MetLife.

NH debuted PFML in December 2022. It is an essential benefit that allows employees to take time off for qualifying reasons without the fear of losing all their income and is crucial for employees who may not have access to other leave for personal or medical reasons. By offering PFML, MetLife empowers employees to prioritize their health and family needs, fostering a supportive and empathetic work environment.

TELUS Health CBT through MetLife’s NH PFML is available to employer-sponsored NH PFML plans only. Who covers the cost of the PFML programs is flexible – employers have the option to pay for NH PFML benefits, have employees pay for their benefits, or split costs.

To learn more about MetLife’s New Hampshire Paid Family and Medical Leave Plan, visit https://www.metlife.com/insurance/disability-insurance/paid-family-medical-leave/states/new-hampshire/, for information about MetLife's leave expertise nationwide visit https://www.metlife.com/insurance/disability-insurance/paid-family-medical-leave/.

About MetLife

MetLife, Inc. (NYSE: MET), through its subsidiaries and affiliates (“MetLife”), is one of the world’s leading financial services companies, providing insurance, annuities, employee benefits and asset management to help individual and institutional customers build a more confident future. Founded in 1868, MetLife has operations in more than 40 markets globally and holds leading positions in the United States, Asia, Latin America, Europe and the Middle East. For more information, visit www.metlife.com.

About TELUS Health

TELUS Health is on a mission to become the most trusted wellbeing company in the world by enhancing the overall efficiency of healthcare and championing workplace wellbeing. By integrating advanced healthcare technology with comprehensive employee support services, TELUS Health provides a holistic approach to primary and preventive health and wellbeing for over 76 million people across 160 countries. Our innovative digital health platforms, including electronic medical records (EMRs) and virtual care solutions, empower healthcare professionals, employers and governments to deliver personalized care efficiently. Our employee wellbeing programs empower individuals by offering extensive support through Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), mental health resources, financial counselling, and workplace wellness initiatives. At TELUS Health, we are committed to revolutionizing healthcare to ensure people receive the support they need and employees thrive both personally and professionally. Together, let’s make the future friendly. For more information, visit: www.telushealth.com.