Navigating Medicaid for Mental and Behavioral Health Services in Colorado
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Accessing mental health treatment effectively—timely and with the right information—is critical, especially here in Colorado, where mental health challenges represent a significant social concern.
With high rates of depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders, along with the increasing strain on mental health resources, it’s more important than ever for individuals to know how to connect with the right care for them. Proper access to treatment can mean the difference between crisis and stability, making Medicaid a vital lifeline for those who need support.
This guide will help you navigate Colorado’s Medicaid system (Health First Colorado), providing clear, practical information about the programs available, who qualifies, and how to access the right services for you or your loved ones.
Whether you need therapy, psychiatry, crisis intervention, or comprehensive behavioral health support, we hope this resource empowers you with the knowledge to get the help you deserve.
What Mental and Behavioral Health Services Does Medicaid Cover?
Health First Colorado provides comprehensive coverage for mental and behavioral health services tailored to meet the needs of its members.
These services include:
Outpatient Mental Health Services
Individual, group, and family therapy
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) for structured care
Evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Psychiatric Services
Comprehensive psychiatric evaluations
Medication management for conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia
Telepsychiatry for rural or homebound individuals
Crisis Intervention
Colorado Crisis Services: A 24/7 hotline (1-844-493-8255 or text “TALK” to 38255) offering immediate support
Mobile crisis teams that provide on-site assistance
Crisis stabilization units for short-term intensive care
Substance Use Treatment
Detoxification services
Outpatient and inpatient rehabilitation
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for substance use disorders
Inpatient Psychiatric Care
Short-term hospitalization for mental health crises
Residential treatment programs for long-term stabilization
Community-Based Services
Assertive Community Treatment (ACT): A team-based approach providing 24/7 support for individuals with severe mental illness
Peer support programs connecting individuals with others who have lived experience
Supported employment services to help individuals regain independence
Specialized Services for Children and Youth
School-based mental health programs
Home-centered therapy for families
Wraparound services for foster children and at-risk youth
Can I Be Eligible for Multiple Services?
Yes, of course! Medicaid is designed to provide holistic care, meaning you can access therapy, psychiatry, case management, and more services simultaneously, if needed. For instance, you might attend weekly therapy sessions, see a psychiatrist for medication management, and participate in a peer support group. A case manager can help coordinate these services, ensuring you receive comprehensive care.
Who Qualifies for Medicaid in Colorado?
Eligibility for Health First Colorado depends on a few key factors:
Income: Medicaid is income-based, so your household income must fall within specified limits.
Residency: You must be a Colorado resident.
Special Circumstances: Additional eligibility criteria may apply to pregnant individuals, children, people with disabilities, or adults with low income.
To find out if you qualify, you can apply through Colorado PEAK, call 1-800-221-3943, or visit your local Medicaid office.
Is Therapy Fully Covered?
Yes, therapy is fully covered under Medicaid when provided by an in-network therapist. Some services, like intensive outpatient care or residential treatment, may require prior authorization, but routine outpatient therapy does not. This means you won’t face out-of-pocket costs for approved sessions.
How Often Can I Receive Therapy, and Is There a Limit?
Medicaid doesn’t impose strict limits on therapy sessions. Instead, the frequency and duration depend on your individual needs, as determined by your therapist and Medicaid guidelines. For ongoing therapy, Medicaid may require periodic reassessments to confirm the medical necessity of continued care.
There is no specific cutoff for how long you can receive therapy, given your provider documents your ongoing need for treatment.
What Types of Providers Can I See?
Medicaid covers services provided by licensed professionals, including:
Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs)
Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs)
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs)
Psychologists
Psychiatrists
It’s important to ensure your provider is in the Medicaid network. Use the Health First Colorado Provider Search Tool or contact Medicaid directly for assistance.
What If I Need Severe Mental Health or Behavioral Health Services?
If your needs are more intensive, Colorado Medicaid offers additional services:
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs): Structured care for those requiring more support than traditional outpatient therapy.
Inpatient Care and Residential Treatment: For individuals in crisis or with severe, ongoing conditions.
Assertive Community Treatment (ACT): Around-the-clock support for individuals with severe mental illness.
Substance Use Treatment Programs: Including detoxification, rehabilitation, and Medication-Assisted Recovery (MAT) services.
How to Find and Access Services
Step 1: Locate In-Network Providers
Use the Health First Colorado Provider Directory to find therapists, psychiatrists, and other professionals near you. You can also call Medicaid at 1-800-221-3943 for assistance.
Step 2: Work with Your Regional Accountable Entity (RAE)
Colorado Medicaid is divided into RAEs, which coordinate mental health services in specific regions. Your Regional Accountable Entity or RAE can help you navigate the system, connect with providers, and access additional resources.
*The contact information for your RAE is on your Medicaid card.
Step 3: Get Help in a Crisis
If you’re in crisis, call Colorado Crisis Services at 1-844-493-8255, or text “TALK” to 38255 for immediate support. Crisis stabilization units and mobile crisis teams are also available statewide.
Key Colorado Resources for Medicaid and Behavioral Health Services
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Description: A nationwide mental health crisis line available 24/7 for anyone experiencing emotional distress, mental health challenges, or substance use concerns.
Contact: Call or text 988
Website: 988 Lifeline
Colorado Crisis Services
Description: Offers immediate crisis intervention and support for mental health and substance use issues, including mobile crisis teams and walk-in centers statewide.
Contact: Call 1-844-493-8255 or text “TALK” to 38255
Website: Colorado Crisis Services
Health First Colorado (Colorado Medicaid)
Description: The state’s Medicaid program, providing comprehensive mental and behavioral health coverage for eligible residents.
Contact: Call 1-800-221-3943 or visit your local Medicaid office.
Website: Health First Colorado
Regional Accountable Entities (RAEs)
Description: Organizations that manage Medicaid mental and behavioral health services within specific regions. They can assist with finding providers and accessing care.
Contact: Find your RAE on your Medicaid card or through Health First Colorado.
Website: RAE Information
Behavioral Health Administration (BHA)
Description: Oversees statewide behavioral health initiatives and supports individuals with mental health or substance use challenges.
Website: Colorado BHA
Colorado PEAK
Description: A portal for applying for Medicaid, checking benefits, and managing health services online.
Website: Colorado PEAK
Walk-In Crisis Centers
Description: Provide face-to-face support for mental health or substance use crises.
Website: Find locations through Colorado Crisis Services
Final Thoughts
Navigating mental health care can feel overwhelming, but Medicaid in Colorado is here to support you. Whether you need therapy, psychiatry, crisis intervention, or long-term care, Health First Colorado offers the tools and services to help you thrive. Don’t hesitate to reach out for your mental health matters, and you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
For more information, visit Health First Colorado’s website or contact your RAE to get started today.
Colorado Strong.