If you are struggling with mental health issues, you’re not alone.
The good news is that if you’re reading this article, you’re looking for help. That’s a big step and one you should be proud of. Another piece of good news: help is available, and you’ve come to the right place.
If you’re a member of Health First Colorado (Colorado’s Medicaid program), mental health benefits are part of your plan.
Here’s what you need to know:
Getting Started Is Easier Than You Think
The first step in accessing mental health benefits through Health First Colorado is to contact your primary care provider, the doctor you see for everyday healthcare issues.
Talk with your primary care provider about your mental health challenges and ask for a referral to a mental health professional. It’s that simple.
Because your primary care provider belongs to a regional organization, they will connect you with a network of providers to help you access the care you need for mental health issues in a coordinated way.
The name of your regional organization is listed on your enrollment letter from Health First Colorado Enrollment. If you’re unsure where your letter is, you can always call Health First Colorado Enrollment or visit the Health First Colorado website to find out.
Mental Health Services Are Affordable
A co-pay is a fixed amount you’re required to pay when you receive a covered health care service. Sometimes, the co-pay amount depends on the service you receive. However, as a member of Health First Colorado, you’ll be pleased to know that there are no co-pays for the following mental health services:
● Alcohol and drug screening counseling
● Group counseling by a provider
● Targeted case management
● Behavioral health assessment
● Emergency and crisis services
● Inpatient psychiatric hospital services for mental health diagnoses
● Medication-assisted treatment
● Outpatient day treatment
● Pharmacologic management of a patient’s medication
● Psychotherapy: family, group, or individual
● School-based mental health services
● Social ambulatory detoxification
Call If You Are In Crisis
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or feel like you’re in a mental health crisis, seek help immediately. The state mental health crisis and information line are staffed 24 hours a day, every day of the year. The number is 844-493-8255, and the counselor who answers can help you find a program to contact for long-term treatment.
Connected Roots Provides Therapy Through Health First Colorado
At Connected Roots, our group of professionals works with you to find a therapy that works best. Our group believes in helping you find connection, grounding, and confidence. We create a safe space for you to express yourself authentically, either on your own or with the support of a group and the surrounding environment.
As a Health First Colorado provider, we appreciate the opportunity to serve a larger portion of our community in need. Our therapeutic services are not one-size-fits-all, but are tailored to address your specific needs.
Is Therapy Right For Me?
Therapy is suitable for everyone. In fact, who couldn’t benefit from an impartial third-party listener – someone trained to help you find inner peace, think through challenging situations, and help you find your center? You may not be feeling overwhelmed or in crisis, but you may need some help sorting through your emotions.
As a general rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to seek professional help if:
● You’re not performing at school or work as effectively as you once were.
● You’re having disrupted sleep or changes in your appetite.
● It’s a struggle to maintain or build relationships.
● You’ve experienced trauma - either in the past or recently.
● You aren’t enjoying things that once gave you pleasure.
● You’re grieving.
● You’d like to improve yourself but are unsure about where to start.
● You’re using substances to cope with your feelings.
Reaching out for help is not a weakness, but a form of self-care. The quicker you find a therapy that works for you, the sooner you’ll begin to feel better.
About Us
We respect and recognize the seriousness of the struggles our clients face. At the same time, our team believes that therapy can be fun! By incorporating humor and lightheartedness into our practice, we encourage human connection and trust. Most importantly, we want our clients to feel safe and comfortable.
At Connected Roots, our diverse team has years of experience and training in many methods to implement creative and unique approaches to our sessions. While we base our care on evidence-based interventions, we remain flexible and make helpful changes to suit your needs.
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