Does Medicaid cover therapy?

Yes. Medicaid covers mental health care in every state, including therapy, psychiatry and medication, usually at little or no cost to you. Because each state runs its own Medicaid program within federal rules, the exact services, provider networks and any copays vary by state. In most states, Medicaid is delivered through managed care plans, so the company name on your card (for example, a state-specific "Community Plan" or "Better Health" plan) is the one to contact for providers and benefits.

What does Medicaid cover for mental health?

Medicaid programs generally cover:

• Therapy with licensed mental health professionals
• Psychiatric evaluations and medication management
• Prescription medications, often with very low or no copays
• Crisis services, and higher levels of care such as intensive outpatient, partial hospitalization and inpatient treatment
• Substance use disorder treatment
• Comprehensive care for children and teens: under Medicaid's EPSDT benefit, children and young people under 21 are entitled to the mental health care they need

Some treatments, such as TMS or Spravato, may be covered with prior authorization depending on your state and plan.

How much does therapy cost with Medicaid?

Usually little or nothing. Federal rules keep Medicaid copays low, and many states charge no copay for mental health visits. If a provider asks you to pay their full fee, check that they're in your Medicaid plan's network.

How do I find a therapist or psychiatrist who takes Medicaid?

• Use your Medicaid plan's provider directory: search on your managed care plan's website or app, or call the member services number on your card.
• Ask your plan for help: many Medicaid plans have care coordinators who can help you find a provider with openings.
• Community mental health centers in most areas accept Medicaid and often offer therapy, psychiatry and case management in one place.
• Confirm before booking: not every provider accepts Medicaid, and those who do may take some Medicaid plans but not others.

How do I find my state's Medicaid program?

Each state names and runs its own program, so searches and websites often use the state's name for it. Some of the largest:

• California: Medi-Cal
• Texas: Texas Medicaid (most members are in STAR managed care plans)
• New York: NY Medicaid
• Florida: Florida Medicaid (Statewide Medicaid Managed Care)
• Pennsylvania: Medical Assistance (HealthChoices)
• Illinois: Illinois Medicaid (HealthChoice Illinois)
• Arizona: AHCCCS
• Washington: Apple Health
• Massachusetts: MassHealth
• Tennessee: TennCare

For any state, Medicaid.gov keeps an official list of state Medicaid agencies with phone numbers. Your state agency or your Medicaid plan can tell you exactly which mental health services are covered and which providers take your plan.

Do I qualify for Medicaid?

Eligibility depends on your state, income, household size and situation. In states that expanded Medicaid, most adults with incomes up to about 138% of the federal poverty level qualify. You can apply any time of year through your state Medicaid agency or HealthCare.gov. Children may qualify for Medicaid or CHIP (the Children's Health Insurance Program) even when parents don't.

Does Medicaid cover telehealth therapy?

All states cover some mental health care by video, and many cover phone visits too. Rules vary by state, so ask your plan or provider.