The first and often biggest hurdle to getting mental health or substance use care is the fear of cost. Here in the San Luis Valley, we want to make it clear: Health First Colorado (Colorado’s Medicaid Program) is a powerful tool designed to eliminate this barrier and provide comprehensive behavioral health services.
Medicaid is the single largest payer for mental health and substance use disorder services in the U.S., and here at SLV Behavioral Health Group (SLVBHG), we are committed to making sure our community knows exactly how to use this lifeline. If you are eligible for Health First Colorado, cost should never stop you from seeking the help you need.
What Does "Comprehensive Coverage" Mean?
For eligible members, Health First Colorado provides extensive behavioral health services, often at little to no cost. This means you can get the whole-person care you need without worrying about expensive co-pays or deductibles.
Here are just some of the vital services covered:
- Individual, Group, and Family Therapy: Access to licensed professionals for psychotherapy, counseling, and specialized therapies (like trauma-informed care).
- Psychiatric Services: Comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and ongoing medication management for conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more.
- Substance Use Treatment: This is a crucial benefit that includes Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), outpatient and intensive outpatient (IOP) rehabilitation, and detoxification services.
- Crisis Intervention: Immediate access to 24/7 crisis services through your regional organization, including mobile crisis teams and crisis stabilization units, ensuring help is available when you need it most.
- Community-Based Services: Support beyond the therapy office, such as case management to help coordinate care and connect you with other essential resources.
Special Coverage: Our Youth are Covered
If you are a parent or caregiver, take note: Children and youth under age 21 receive particularly comprehensive coverage under a federal rule called EPSDT (Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment).
This means if a child or teen is diagnosed with a behavioral health condition, they are entitled to virtually any service available under federal Medicaid law that is medically necessary to correct or manage that condition. This provides unparalleled access to specialized care, including intensive services and therapies, ensuring our youngest community members get the strong start they deserve.
Direct Answers to Cost Questions
The most common question we hear is about the out-of-pocket expense.
- Are there co-pays for behavioral health services? Generally, no. For the mental health and substance use services provided through your Health First Colorado regional organization, you will typically not have any co-pays.
- Is there a limit on therapy sessions? The frequency and duration of your care will be determined by your individual needs, as assessed by your therapist and guided by clinical necessity. Health First Colorado generally allows for 20-24 psychotherapy sessions annually. If your therapist recommends more sessions, our team can help secure preauthorization for the additional coverage. We believe that your well-being should dictate your care plan.
Take the Next Step with SLVBHG
Your mental health is a fundamental right, and Health First Colorado is the key to unlocking that right here in the San Luis Valley. You don't need to choose between your financial stability and your mental well-being.
If you are struggling or need help navigating your benefits, we encourage you to reach out.
To inquire about services at SLV Behavioral Health Group and check your eligibility with Health First Colorado, please contact us today.
- Main Office Line: 719-589-3671
- SLVBHG Crisis Team (24/7): 719-589-3671
- National Crisis Line: Call or Text 988
