Why do I need to update my CAQH before applying to Aetna?

Aetna pulls your credentialing data from CAQH. If your CAQH profile is not fully updated and attested, Aetna's system will likely kick your application back, delaying the process. Get your CAQH current before you start.

Should I select Individual Provider or Provider Group?

Select Individual Provider if you are solo without an LLC. If you have an LLC, select Provider Group. For Request Type, choose Behavioral Health, Individual Provider.

Should I use my SSN or EIN for the Tax ID?

Use your EIN if you have one; otherwise use your SSN. Using an EIN is recommended to protect your SSN when possible.

Do I need hospital privileges for Aetna credentialing as a mental health provider?

For most LCPCs, LCSWs, and LMFTs, the answer is No. You only need to select Yes if you have specific admitting privileges at a hospital.

How long does Aetna credentialing take?

Expect about two months start to finish. Roughly one month after submitting, you'll receive a document to sign; about a month after that, the counter-signed contract with your network effective date; then about another month before you're loaded in the system and can start seeing Aetna patients.

Should I opt in to EAP (Employee Assistance Program)?

In general, skip EAP unless you want to grow your caseload with lower-fee clients. EAP pays less (often under $70 per session) and adds billing hassle. It does not affect whether Aetna accepts your application.

Credentialing

The Step-by-Step Guide to Aetna Credentialing for Illinois LCPCs, LCSWs, and LMFTs

By George Ruan • February 15, 2026

Credentialing is just one piece of the puzzle — let Bomi handle the billing side so you can focus on building your practice.

Feeling lost while trying to enroll with Aetna? You aren't alone. Credentialing often feels like an big black box when starting a private practice.

If you saw our recent Instagram post, you know the basics: update your CAQH and find the "Join the Network" form. But here we'll go deeper. Below is the definitive playbook for mental health professionals in Illinois to get on the Aetna panel without the headache.

Pre-Requisites

Before you even click the link, ensure your CAQH (Council for Affordable Quality Healthcare) profile is fully updated and attested. If your CAQH isn't current, Aetna’s system will likely kick your application back.

Have these ready:

Your NPI (Type 1 for individuals; Type 2 if you have a group practice).
Your Tax ID (SSN for solo practitioners without a business name; EIN otherwise).
Your Illinois Professional License Number and Expiration Date.
A digital copy of your W9.

The Initial Application

Head over to the Aetna Join the Network Portal to begin.

Common Places of Confusion

Request Type: Behavioral Health, Individual Provider.
Individual vs. Group: Select Individual Provider if you are solo without an LLC. If you have an LLC, select "Provider Group"
Tax ID Type. Use your EIN if you have one, otherwise your SSN. I highly recommend using an EIN to protect your SSN.

Hospital Privileges: For most mental health professionals, the answer here is No (unless you have specific admitting privileges at a local hospital).

ADA Accessibility: It's OK to select No here. It won't interfere with them accepting your application or not. It is just informational for the provider directory
EAP. In general, unless you are looking to grow your case-load by taking on clients for a lower price I would skip this. It's more hassle to bill and pays less (<$70)

Timeline

The timeline as of this writing is ~2 months start to finish once you submit the application. This is what you can expect

~1 month. Aetna will send you a document to sign. This is not counter-signed by them yet, and simply starts the process. It is a positive sign that they are considering your packet for credentialing.
~1 month. Aetna will send you the counter-signed contract after another month if your CAQH and credentials were correctly filled out. It will have your network effective date. If there are issues, they will follow up via email.
~1 month. Aetna loads your credentials into the system and then you can start practicing! This is the time between counter-sign and network effective date.