Find a Medicaid Psychiatrist
Medically reviewed by Gabriela Asturias, MD on June 24, 2024Roughly one in four Americans is enrolled in Medicaid, yet the program looks a little different in every state. One card might say “Medi-Cal,” another “SoonerCare,” but all sit under the same federal safety-net umbrella. Good news: federal parity rules mean mental-health benefits must be on par with medical benefits, so therapy with Medicaid is not only possible—it’s often free. This guide will teach you how to locate a Medicaid therapist and confirm that your visits are covered.
How Medicaid Mental-Health Coverage Works
- Therapy Is an Essential Benefit. All states must cover outpatient mental-health services—including individual, family, and group therapy—under federal regulations and parity law. KFF’s 2024 survey shows every state now lists behavioral-health therapy as a core benefit, usually at $0 copay.
- Managed-Care Plans Rule. About 73% of enrollees belong to state-contracted HMOs (e.g., Sunshine Health in Florida, Molina in Utah). Each plan builds its own provider directory and call center.
- Telehealth Is Here to Stay. Since 2020, all 50 states and DC have expanded Medicaid telehealth; most now reimburse video or audio-only mental-health visits delivered to the patient’s home.
- Minimal Out-of-Pocket Costs. Adult copays, where they exist, run $1–$5 per outpatient visit and are waived for many members such as pregnant people or those under 21.
If you’re wondering whether a specific therapist covered by Medicaid is free or has a token | copay, open your plan’s member portal—or call the number on your card—and ask for the behavioral-health benefit grid.
Types of Medicaid Mental-Health Providers
| Provider Type | What They Do |
|---|---|
| Medicaid Therapist / Counselor (LCSW, LMFT, LPC) | Weekly talk therapy, coping skills, family sessions |
| Medicaid Psychologist (PhD, PsyD) | Psychological testing, trauma-focused modalities |
| Medicaid Psychiatrist (MD/DO) | Diagnosis, medication management, complex cases |
Most managed-care plans contract with thousands of mental health providers that accept Medicaid, but supply does vary by county—one reason wait times can be longer in rural areas.
Real-Life Use Case: How Alisha Found a Therapist That Accepts Medicaid
Alisha, a 27-year-old barista in Richmond, Virginia, started feeling postpartum depression three months after giving birth. Here’s her 14-day timeline:
- Day 1 — Eligibility Check She confirms she’s still active on Virginia Medicaid (Cardinal Care) in the state portal.
- Day 1 — Plan Hotline She calls the behavioral-health number on her Aetna Better Health card and completes a 10-minute screening.
- Day 2 — Choices Presented The care navigator offers a Teladoc video slot in four days or an in-person therapist that accepts Medicaid in 12.
- Day 3 — Directory Deep Dive Filtering for Spanish-speaking clinicians, Alisha finds two medicaid therapists near me within five miles.
- Day 14 — First Session Cost: $0 under postpartum eligibility rules.
- Day 15 — Medication Consult A virtual visit with a medicaid psychiatrist is scheduled for the following week.
Alisha’s story shows that once you know the hotline number and directory filters, finding therapists that take Medicaid can move quickly—even in states with limited supply.
Step-by-Step: Finding Mental-Health Care Through Medicaid
- Verify Your Plan and ID. Log into your state’s Medicaid portal or app. If you just qualified, wait for your managed-care assignment letter.
- Call the Behavioral-Health Hotline. Every plan has a 24/7 line staffed by licensed clinicians. Say, “I’d like to start therapy.”
- Use the Online Directory. Search keywords like “CBT,” “trauma,” or “child psychology,” then filter for zip code. Look for green check marks or “accepting patients” under each therapist covered by Medicaid.
- Ask About Telehealth. Many psychologists Medicaid lists now offer secure video—this is a great option if transportation is a limiting factor.
- Confirm the Cost. Copays are usually $0. If you are quoted a different price, ask, “Is that correct under my eligibility category?”
- Book and Add to Calendar. If the first available is too far out, request the plan’s “Rapid Access” list or ask for community-mental-health center referrals.
Find care for Medicaid
Remember, recovery is possible. With early intervention, a supportive network, and the right professional care, you can overcome the challenges of Medicaid and build a fulfilling life. We are here to help you find care.
