Adoption and Guardianship Assistance by State

What mental health services are provided by your State?

Alabama

Financial assistance is available for children receiving out-patient counseling services at the time of placement from a therapist who does not accept Medicaid to prevent the interruption of the therapeutic intervention. All financial assistance is subject to the availability of state funds.

See the Medicaid Mental Health section for services for eligible children and adults, and community-based and inpatient services that are provided.

Note: Not all services may be available in all cases. Contact your adoption assistance worker or medical assistance specialist for information regarding process, eligibility, availability, and duration of services.

Alaska

Mental health services in Alaska are managed by the Division of Behavioral Health within the Alaska Department of Health.

Arizona

Public mental health services for children in Arizona are administered by the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), Division of Behavioral Health Services (DBHS). Public funding is through Arizona’s Medicaid program, known as the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System.

Mental health services include the following examples: evaluation and screening, inpatient psychiatric facility care, outpatient clinic care, behavioral health residential treatment, individual, group and family therapy, counseling, crisis intervention, behavior management, psychotropic medication, and respite.

ADHS/DBHS contracts with Regional Behavioral Health Authorities (RBHAs) for a network of providers, clinics and other appropriate facilities and services to deliver behavioral health services to eligible members in their contracted geographic service area (GSA). ADHS/DBHS has Intergovernmental Agreements for Tribal RBHAs with some of Arizona's American Indian Tribes to provide behavioral health services to persons living on the reservations.

Contact the Behavioral Health Services Crisis line for assistance.

Arkansas

Public mental health services for children in Arkansas are administered by the Department of Human Services through the Division of Behavioral Health. Specialized programs for children with serious emotional disturbance are available. Services include the following examples: interagency service coordination, individual and group outpatient psychological counseling, short-term crisis intervention, day treatment, wraparound services, and prescription drugs.

Inpatient Psychiatric Program: Services are publicly funded through Medicaid and cover inpatient psychiatric services for children less than twenty-one years of age. Psychiatric treatment must be considered medically necessary and requires prior authorization before services can be received.
Alternative Community Services: Services include case management, respite services, integrated supports, and consultation services.

The Division of Aging, Adult, & Behavioral Health Services provides an integrated system of public mental health care and alcohol, tobacco and other drug prevention and treatment services to Arkansas residents. The DBHS provides the majority of direct mental health services throughout the State by contracting with 13 community mental health centers (CMHCs) and 2 specialty clinics. DBHS staff are available for consultation and education regarding behavioral health issues.

California

Public mental health services for children in California are administered by the Department of Health Services, Department of Mental Health, through the state Medicaid program known as Medi-Cal. Services include the following examples: counseling, psychiatric services, medication, and mental health treatment for children and families. The person receiving services and the mental health provider work in partnership to decide the appropriate services for that person.

The Children’s Mental Health Network provides The Children’s Mental Health Network promotes and supports high-quality services and solutions for children with mental health needs and their families.

The Network of Care for Mental Health offers information about mental health issues and related support services in local communities. To find local mental health services, contact your local county mental health agency.

The federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) ensures that children with disabilities are entitled to a free, appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment. Special education pupils may require mental health services in any of the 13 disability categories. To be eligible to receive services, they must have a current individualized education program (IEP) on file. The services must align with the child’s needs as identified in the IEP and are designed so that children will benefit from their educational programs. They are free to all eligible students regardless of family income or resources.

See Mental Health Services FAQ about services previously provided through County Mental Health Agencies for students with Individualized Education Programs.

Colorado

Public mental health services for children in Colorado are administered by the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) under the Medical Assistance Program and include the following examples: out patient therapy, school based therapy, in-home support, day treatment, hospitalization, residential care, crisis intervention support, prescription drugs and medication management. Limited respite care and mentors may also be available.

Each area of the state has a Community Mental Health Center (CMHC) and a Behavioral Health Organization (BHO). The BHO is responsible for providing necessary mental health services to Medicaid eligible children. Family Advocates and Consumer Representatives can assist parents in accessing needed services and resolving any dissatisfaction with services received.

Select Frequently Asked Questions or phone 800.221.3943 (outside Metro Denver) and 303.866.3513 (within Metro Denver).

If you need mental health services immediately, call 844.493.TALK (8255) or visit Colorado Crisis Services.

See also:

Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS) Behavioral Health for Children and Families
CDHS Mental Health Institutes
Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing Behavioral Health Services
Colorado School Safety Resource Center Department of Public Safety Directories for Behavioral Health Treatment Providers
CDHS Division for Regional Center Operations

Connecticut

Public mental health services for children in Connecticut are administered through the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF). DCF has statutory authority to provide for children's mental health services. The Department operates the Albert J. Solnit Center - North Campus and the Albert J. Solnit Center - South Campus. Through Connecticut Community KidCare, the Department also provides funding for a broad array of clinical and other services in the community, including outpatient clinics for children, therapeutic group homes, extended day treatment programs, emergency mobile psychiatric services, respite care, family advocacy, intensive case management and much more. Children and families can access state-operated or state-funded community services directly or through referrals from providers in the behavioral health system. Services are provided on a sliding scale, and the majority of service providers are affiliated with a variety of health insurance plans. More information may be found on the Connecticut Behavioral Health Partnership .

Delaware

Public mental health services for children in Delaware are administered by the Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families (DSCYF), Division of Prevention and Behavioral Health (DPBH). DPBH’s mental health services include the following examples: outpatient care, support and crisis services, day and residential treatment, and hospital treatment services. More information may be found on the Division of Prevention and Behavioral Health website.

District of Columbia

Public mental health services for children in the District of Columbia are administered by the Department of Behavioral Health and include the following examples: mental health, physician, clinic, inpatient/outpatient hospital care, residential treatment, and pharmacy/prescription drugs.

The Foster and Adoptive Parent Advocacy Center provides the following services: short-term counseling focused on adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, abandonment, identity development, and family identify formation. Contact the Center at 202.526.4802.

Note: Not all services may be available in all cases. Contact your adoption assistance worker, medical assistance specialist, or post adoption services contact for information regarding process, eligibility, availability, and duration of services.

Florida

Public mental health services for children in Florida are administered by the Department of Children and Families, Substance Abuse and Mental Health. The Children’s Mental Health system of care is public-funded and serves eligible children with serious emotional disturbance, children with emotional disturbance, and children at risk of emotional disturbance, within the amount of funds appropriated for these services. Mental health services in Florida are received through various programs including:

Community Mental Health: Includes rehabilitative services which are either psychiatric in nature, rendered or recommended by a psychiatrist; or medical in nature, rendered or recommended by a psychiatrist or other physician.

Early Intervention: Includes medical and remedial services designed to enhance the capacity of children with conditions causing a delay in normal development. The services include screenings, evaluations and medically related early intervention services, such as nutritional, psychological, audiological, nursing, developmental, social work, speech language pathology and parent training.

Intermediate Care Facility Services for the Mentally Retarded or Developmentally Disabled: Provided to individuals who, because of their mental or physical condition, require care and services which can be made available to them only through institutional facilities.

Georgia

Public mental health services for children in Georgia are administered through the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities Office of Children, Young Adults & Families (OCFY).

CYF offers children and their families a range of treatment and support services to address emotional and behavioral problems. Early treatment of these problems is critical to help a child complete school and develop fundamental developmental skills. Services are provided at various stages in the continuum of care and include evaluation/assessment, diagnosis, counseling and medication, therapy (individual, group, and family), community support services, peer supports, crisis assessments, and physician services. These services are provided in clinics and other locations as needed, including homes, schools, detention facilities, and other community settings. For help accessing these mental health services, parents may contact their regional field office.

In a move designed to improve continuity of health care and better health outcomes, the Georgia Department of Community Health, as of March 3, 2014, transitioned children receiving Adoption Assistance Medicaid into a single Care Management Organization, Amerigroup Community of GA called Georgia Families 360°. Goals of the program are to improve access to health care services, particularly physical and behavioral health services, increase continuity of care and enhance health outcomes. Children receiving Adoption Assistance are automatically enrolled.

For access to services and immediate crisis help, call the Georgia Crisis & Access Line (GCAL) at 1-800-715-4225, available 24/7.

Hawaii

The State of Hawaii provides mental health services to children and youth through the Department of Health (DOH) Child and Adolescent Mental Health Division (CAMHD).

CAMHD offers help for children and adolescents with mental health needs through the Evidence Based Services (EBS) Committee. The EBS Committee promotes best practices to serve children and adolescents with mental health needs. Multiple reports, recommendations, trainings, and studies are provided to alert mental health professionals, administrators, and parents with special needs children of the best ways to meet the mental health needs of children and youth.

MedQUEST is another resource for help with mental health needs. For services and eligibility information, contact MedQUEST.

Parents may also contact the Department of Health, Family Health Services for help.

The Department contracts with various agencies statewide to provide counseling and support services. Please contact the child’s social service assistant or social worker.

Note: Not all services may be available in all cases. Contact your adoption assistance worker, medical assistance specialist, or the Department of Health, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Division for information regarding process, eligibility, availability, and duration of services.

Idaho

Optum is responsible for management of the Idaho Behavioral Health Plan, which includes outpatient mental health and substance use services for adults and children who are enrolled in Idaho Medicaid. Questions regarding eligibility, coverage, and services can be addressed by accessing the Optum Hello Idaho! website or calling the Member Questions/Member Crisis Line Call (Toll-Free 24/7) at (855) 202-0973.

The Children’s Mental Health Program is a partner in the development of a community-based System of Care for children with a serious emotional disturbance (SED) and their families. The program provides services and supports that increase the capacity for children with an SED and their families to live, work, learn, and participate fully in their community. For more information about the Idaho System of Care and services and support available in your area, call the Idaho Care-Line by dialing 211 or 1-800-926-2588 or your local Health and Welfare office.

The Idaho Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health, an Idaho-based family-run organization is designed to serve families with children who are living with a mental health diagnosis. Please call 1-800-905-3436 or visit their website to learn more and to get involved.

The State of Idaho provides State funded and operated community based mental health care services through Regional Behavioral Health Centers (RBHC) located in each of the seven geographical regions of the State. Each RBHC provides mental health services through a system of care that is both community-based and consumer-guided. See:

Idaho’s public mental health services
Idaho's Children's Mental Health services

Illinois

The Illinois Children’s Mental Health Partnership (ICMHP) is the only statewide, public/private partnership of policymakers and advocates in Illinois committed to improving the scope, quality, and access of mental health programs, services, and supports for children.

The Screening, Assessment and Support Services (SASS) initiative is a cooperative partnership between the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), the Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) and the Department of Human Services (DHS). The development of the tri-department SASS program created a single, statewide system to serve children experiencing a mental health crisis whose care will require public funding from one of the three agencies. This program features a single point of entry (Crisis and Referral Entry Service, CARES) for all children entering the system and ensures that children receive crisis services in the most appropriate setting. If families are in need of SASS Services or experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact the CARES line at 1-800-345-9049.

The Division of Mental Health (DMH) operates as the single state mental health authority. DMH provides a wide variety of mental health services, offered through Community Mental Health Centers, and is a key partner alongside HFS and DCFS in the state’s Screening, Assessment, and Support Services (SASS) program for children. DMH acts as one of the Certifying State Agencies for Community Mental Health Centers and is one of the primary funders of mental health services for children and adults at all levels of care throughout the state.

Contact your county Medicaid specialist to determine eligibility, availability and duration of services. Illinois’s Department of Healthcare and Family Services Children’s Support Services and Mental Health Crisis Services for Youth.

Indiana

Indiana’s mental health care is administered through the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) and its Hoosier Assurance Plan (HAP) the primary system used by the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration's Division of Mental Health and Addiction (DMHA) to fund public mental health and addiction services. HAP is intended to ensure service availability to the Indiana population in greatest need of mental health and addiction services. Services include the following examples: out-patient and in-patient hospital care, psychological, inpatient psychiatric care, prescription drugs, and case management.

Hoosier Healthwise is a health care program for children up to age 19 covering medical care like doctor visits, prescription medicine, mental health care, dental care, hospitalizations, and surgeries at little or no cost to the member or the member's family.

Iowa

The Division of Mental Health and Disability Services (MHDS) is responsible for planning, coordinating, monitoring, improving and partially funding mental health and disability services for the State of Iowa. The division engages in a wide variety of activities that promote a well-coordinated statewide system of high quality disability-related services and supports.

Kansas

Kansas public mental health services are administered through the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS). For a listing of resources, please see: programs and services.

Kentucky

The Children’s Behavioral Health and Recovery Services Branch is responsible for the oversight of services and supports for children and youth who have or are at-risk of developing behavioral health concerns (including both mental health and substance use), and their families. This includes assisting providers and families in accessing training and coaching in a variety of evidence-based and promising approaches.

Branch staff work with Community Mental Health Centers and other agencies by providing oversight of and technical assistance regarding the delivery of a continuum of behavioral health care that includes promotion, prevention, early intervention, treatment, and recovery services and supports.

Additionally, staff work with specific state and regional initiatives, including but not limited to:

Adolescent substance use prevention and treatment
Crisis intervention
Early childhood mental health
High-fidelity wraparound
Peer support
School-based behavioral health
Trauma-informed care

Finally, the branch has primary responsibility for oversight of several federal grants and initiatives whose funds are geared toward adolescent substance use, transition-age youth, early interventions for first episode psychosis, system-of-care expansion, bridging services from hospital to community, and others.

The branch adheres to and operates in accordance with the values and guiding principles of Systems of Care, as set forth by the federal Center for Mental Health Services within the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

In addition, Kentucky developed the IMPACT program which was designed to increase the variety and availability of community-based service options and to decrease the need for out of home and non-community based care. Kentucky IMPACT was established as a coordinated, interagency approach to service delivery for children/youth with serious emotional disabilities (SED) and their families. The model provides services not traditionally available, such as mentoring, school-based services, and intensive in-home therapy, as well as flexible funding for informal supports such as community activities, family support, and after-school and summer activities.

Louisiana

The Office of Behavioral Health (OBH) manages and delivers the services and supports necessary to improve the quality of life for children with mental illness and addictive disorders.

The agency acts as monitors and subject matter consultants for the children's Coordinated System of Care program and the Medicaid Healthy Louisiana managed care plans, which manage behavioral health services. OBH also delivers direct care through hospitalization and has oversight of behavioral health community-based treatment programs through the human services districts and authorities. Services are provided for Medicaid and non-Medicaid eligible populations. For more information regarding services, please visit the Louisiana Medicaid.

Maine

Public mental health services for children up to age 21 in Maine are administered through the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Child and Family Services, Children's Behavioral Health program. Children's Behavioral Health, link: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ocfs/cbhs/programs.shtml.

Children's Behavioral health services include:

Rehabilitative and Community Support Services for Children with Cognitive Impairments and Functional Limitations
Case Management-MaineCare*
Crisis Services
Outpatient-MaineCare*
Medication Management-MaineCare*
Home & Community Treatment Services (HCT-MaineCare*)
Intense 24/7 symptom management and supports in home, school and community
Assertive Community Treatment (ACT-MaineCare*)
Intensive Temporary Residential Treatment (ITRT)
NAMI Maine Family Respite

The Office of Child and Family Services (OCFS) supports Maine's children and their families by providing Children's Behavioral Health, Child Welfare, Early Intervention & Prevention Services, and Operations.

Service Areas of the Office of Child and Family Service:

Children's Behavioral Health Services - Children's Behavioral Health services focus on behavioral health treatment and services for children from birth up to their 21st birthday. Services include providing information and assistance with referrals for children and youth with developmental disabilities/delays, intellectual disability, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and mental health disorders.

Early Intervention & Prevention Services - OCFS early intervention and prevention services seek to promote the health, well-being and safety of children and families by reducing the risk and effect of adverse childhood experiences (such as neglect, trauma, or exposure to violence). Administering best practice services that create a community of caring for intergenerational members focused on increasing protective factors such as health, education, safety promotion, social connections and family strengthening supports.

For more information regarding behavioral health services please visit the Office of Child and Family Services.

Maryland

The Children’s Services Division of the Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) is charged with developing a system of care for young people and their families ranging from early childhood all the way through to the time when young people reach the age of majority and legally become adults. The system of care is designed to meet the needs of individuals within this age range who have mental health conditions, substance-related disorders, and those who have both. The Division evaluates the network of services that the BHA funds for this age group and has the responsibility for statewide planning, development, administration and monitoring of provider performance to assure the highest possible level of quality in the delivery of services. The Division also manages a number of special projects and is responsible to work with all other child serving agencies at both the State and local levels to assure a highly coordinated and individualized approach to care.

The Center for Children is dedicated to the promotion of positive mental health for children, youth and families and the prevention and treatment of child abuse in Southern Maryland. Through therapy, education and advocacy, they provide hope and healing. More information regarding the services offered can be found at Behavioral Health Administration’s Child, Adolescent and Young Adult Services (CAYAS) division.

Core Services Agencies (CSAs) are the local mental health authorities responsible for planning, managing, and monitoring public mental health services at the local level. CSAs exist under the authority of the Secretary of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and are agents of the county government. The functions of core service agencies are to plan, develop, and manage a full range of treatment and rehabilitation services for persons with serious mental illness in their jurisdiction.

Massachusetts

The Massachusetts Department of Mental Health, as the State Mental Health Authority, assures and provides access to services and supports to meet the mental health needs of individuals of all ages, enabling them to live, work and participate in their communities. The Department establishes standards to ensure effective and culturally competent care to promote recovery. The Department sets policy, promotes self-determination, protects human rights and supports mental health training and research. This critical mission is accomplished by working in partnership with other state agencies, individuals, families, providers and communities.

The Children’s Behavioral Health Initiative (CBHI), as part of the MassHealth Office of Behavioral Health, focuses on strengthening, expanding, and integrating Massachusetts behavioral health services into a comprehensive, community-based system of care.

CBHI partners with child and family serving state agencies, providers, and payers to ensure that services:
- meet the individual needs of the child and family
- are easy for families to find and access
- make families feel welcomed and respected.

Information abou CBHI services may be found in the CBHI Brochures and Companion Guide.

Michigan

Public mental health services for children in Michigan are administered through the Department of Community Health (DCH), Division of Mental Health Services to Children and Families and are coordinated through local Community Mental Health Services Programs (CMHSPs). Services include the following examples: respite care, physician visits, in patient and outpatient hospitalization, medical supplies, prescription drugs, mental health care, personal care services, and substance abuse services.

The website provides information on a myriad of issues that impact the development and implementation of services and supports for children and their families.

Locate mental health services for children/youth and their families’ on the county map. See alsoThe Bureau of Children's Coordinated Health Policy & Supports and Community Mental Health Services Programs and/or contact the Michigan Medical Assistance Hotline: 800.642.3195.

Minnesota

Public mental health services for children in Minnesota are administered by the Mental Health Division, through the Community Supports Division of DHS. Children’s mental health services include: case management, respite care, crisis intervention and stabilization, in-home therapy, out-patient therapy, school-linked mental health services, day treatment, intensive treatment in foster care, partial hospitalization, first episode psychosis treatment, and children’s residential treatment. See: Children's mental health programs and services.

Note: Not all services may be available in all cases. Contact your adoption assistance worker or medical assistance specialist for process, eligibility, availability, and duration of services.

Mississippi

Public mental health services for children in Mississippi are administered by the Office of the Governor, Division of Medicaid (DOM) and include the following examples: inpatient and outpatient hospital, physician services, prescription drugs, psychiatric residential treatment, and inpatient psychiatric care. The DOM Contact Guide and Services for Medicaid Beneficiaries pages are also available on this site. The Medicaid Central Office may be contacted by calling: (601)359-6050 or toll free: 1-800-421-2408.

Missouri

The Division of Behavioral Health (DBH) is responsible for making sure that prevention, evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation services are available for individuals and families that need public mental health services throughout the State of Missouri.

If you would like more information, please call (573) 751-8017 or e-mail dbhmail@dmh.mo.gov.

For more information regarding the Department of Behavioral Health or Department of Mental Health and the services offered, please visit the Missouri Department of Mental Health website.

Through the MO HealthNet for Kids program, children receive full, comprehensive coverage including primary, acute and preventative care, hospital care, dental and vision care as well as prescription coverage

The Missouri DSS Children’s Treatment Services (CTS) section of the State Child Welfare Manual offers details about the services across the Division’s continuum of care. Medicaid coverage is secondary to any private insurance of the adoptive family.

Montana

State funded mental health services for children under age 18 are administered through the Children's Mental Health Bureau of the Developmental Services Division of the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.

Public mental health for children in Montana includes the following examples: inpatient and outpatient hospital care, outpatient community mental health centers, outpatient psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, licensed professional counselors, physician services, residential treatment, and prescription drugs.

See Mental Health information links:

Nebraska

Treatment for mental health issues are provided to Nebraska residents with mental illness and/or problems with addiction by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. Both children and adults are served. Ability to pay is not a factor; persons pay what they can afford.

Most of Nebraska’s Behavioral Health services are managed directly by six Regional Behavioral Health Authorities (RBHA) which are responsible to the counties they serve, and assure that vital services are available to persons in or near their home communities.

Visit the County mental health offices.

The Nebraska Family Help Line (1-888-866-8660) provides assistance to families 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Trained Helpline operators screen calls to assess immediate safety needs. Identify the potential level of a behavioral health crisis, make recommendations or referrals to appropriate resources, and help callers connect to emergency resources or providers. The Helpline is supervised by licensed mental health professionals.

Nevada

Nevada Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS) provides a wide range of mental health services to children, adolescents and their families.

DCFS’ mental health services include Community-Based Outpatient Services, Residential and Day Treatment Services and Contracted Services.

DCFS provides mental health treatment services for children with significant emotional and/or behavioral problems. Children are referred by parents, schools, child welfare, juvenile justice, private mental health providers, adult mental health providers, etc. to mental health services. Services are provided in a strengths-based approach that respects family decision-making about their children and honors the family’s cultural values and practices. Services are individualized for each child and family.

Specific information about mental health services for children may be found on the DFCS website.

A directory of Child Mental Health Services phone numbers and contacts is available.

The Mobile Crisis Response Team was created to provide crisis intervention and support to Nevada families dealing with a behavioral or mental health crisis. For more information visit the Nevada Mobile Crisis Response Team website.

New Hampshire

Behavioral Health Services for children in New Hampshire are administered by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), and include the following examples: inpatient hospitalization, psychotherapy, social work counseling, mental health services, pastoral counseling, prescription drugs, and respite care.

Medicaid offers comprehensive coverage, including in-patient and out-patient hospital services, doctor visits, home health care, eye care, psychological services, certain dental procedures, etc. A complete listing of benefits can be obtained from a DHHS District Office or by calling Medicaid Client Services .

New Jersey

DCF's Children's System of Care (CSOC), formerly the Division of Child Behavioral Health Services, serves children and adolescents with emotional and behavioral health care challenges and their families; children with developmental and intellectual disabilities and their families; and, children with substance use challenges and their families. More information can be found at the State of New Jersey, Division of Children and Families website.

For questions about how to access behavioral health services for children and youth and for information on the application process, please call the 24-hour, toll-free Access Line at: 877.652.7624

Family Support Organizations (FSO’s) are family-run, county-based organizations that provide direct family-to-family peer support, education, advocacy and other services to family members of children with emotional and behavioral problems. To access services, you may call these organizations directly. Access the FSO webpage.

For questions about New Jersey Medicaid call: 800.356.1561 or your County Welfare Agency.

New Mexico

The New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department provides an array of prevention, intervention, rehabilitative and after-care services to New Mexico children and their families.

See also the MentalHealth.gov for New Mexico treatment resources and general information about mental health.

To learn more about what is offered by New Mexico's Medicaid programs please contact the New Mexico Medicaid Call Center by calling 1-888-997-2583.

Note: Not all services may be available in all cases. Contact your local placement services social worker for information regarding process, eligibility, availability, and duration of services.

New York

For information on specific services available in your community please see the Office of Mental Health or call (800) 597-8481.

Note: Not all services may be available in all cases. Contact your adoption assistance worker or the county Department of Mental Health information regarding process, eligibility, availability, and duration of services and the specific services available in the local community as services vary by locality.

North Carolina

Mental health services for children in North Carolina are administered by the DHHS Division of Medical Assistance (DMA) and include the following examples: inpatient and outpatient hospitalization, including treatment in psychiatric hospitals and mental health centers, inpatient and outpatient substance abuse programs, diagnostic services, therapies, physician’s services and prescription drugs. Mental health services may require prior approval before services can be received.

Access the North Carolina’s general Medicaid website.
Eligibility criteria for Medicaid or Health Choice are provided on the DMA website.

North Dakota

Public mental health services for children in North Dakota are administered by the Department of Human Services through collaboration between the Division of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services and the Children and Family Services Division. The Children’s Mental Health System of Care is also known as the Partnerships Program for Children's Mental Health. Services include the following examples: psychiatric and psychological evaluations, inpatient hospitalization (psychiatric unit), individual-group-family psychotherapy, partial hospitalization services, and inpatient psychiatric and residential treatment centers services for the care and treatment of metal illness or disorders.

Specific information about services covered and related contacts may be found in the following sections of the NDDHS website:

Medicaid General Information
Regional contacts

Ohio

Public mental health services for children in Ohio are administered by the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. Mental health services include the following examples: hospitalization, physician services, prescription drugs, and mental health services. Specific mental health services include:

Medical and surgical services, including respite care if required
Psychiatric, psychological, and counseling services, including respite if required
Maintenance costs as part of a residential treatment program

The Post Adoption Special Services Subsidy Program (PASSS) is intended to pay for services not covered by other adoption subsidy programs, insurance programs or Medicaid. PASSS funds may be used to cover medical or psychological services that are deemed necessary to meet the needs of the child. PASSS may also be used as another source of funding for children’s mental health services in Ohio. PASSS provides funding to families for the reasonable costs of allowable services to address the child's physical or developmental handicap or mental or emotional condition. The child’s condition may have existed before the adoption petition was filed; or developed after the adoption petition was filed and can be attributed to factors in the child's pre-adoption background or medical history or the biological family's background or medical history.

The following websites highlight State resources on mental health issues:

Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services

Ohio Department of Medicaid program

The National Institute of Mental Health

Oklahoma

Public mental health services for children in Oklahoma are provided through Title XIX (Medicaid) which is administered by the Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA), the State's Medicaid agency. Eligibility for Medicaid is determined by OKDHS. Oklahoma offers all medical services compensable through the state’s Title XIX fee for service program. Examples of services Medicaid offers are mental health services (psychological/psychiatric services, emotional/psychological/behavioral counseling), outpatient and inpatient hospitalization, substance abuse services and prescription drugs. Some services require prior authorization by the OKHCA. A listing of behavioral health providers and treatment centers in Oklahoma that accept Medicaid can be found on the website of the OKHCA. The Oklahoma Medicaid Program is SoonerCare. You may contact the Sooner Care helpline by calling: 1-800-652-2010.

Oregon

Public mental health services for children in Oregon are administered by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA).

Oregon’s Children Mental Health System partners:

Portland State University, the Oregon Department of Human Services, and the Oregon Post Adoption Resource Center (ORPARC) joined together to create a statewide Postgraduate Training Certificate in Therapy with Adoptive and Foster Families. The objectives of this program are to increase accessible, affordable, adoption-competent and foster-competent mental health support for children and their families throughout Oregon and to reduce the risk of adoptive or foster family dissolution. Find a Directory of Professionals with a Post-Graduate Training Certificate in Therapy with Adoptive & Foster Families.

Pennsylvania

Public mental health services for children in Pennsylvania are administered through county Mental Health and Developmental Services (MH/DS) program offices. The county MH/DS offices serve as a referral source. Most actual mental health services are delivered by local provider agencies under contract with the county MH/DS office. The county MH/DS office determines a person's eligibility for service funding, assesses the need for treatment or other services, and makes referrals to appropriate programs to fit treatment and/or other service needs.

Services include the following examples:

behavioral health rehabilitation services
psychiatric inpatient, psychiatric outpatient clinic
psychological services, prescription drugs
targeted case management
drug/alcohol inpatient and outpatient care

Pennsylvania's Special Kids Network System of Care program works to remove barriers and challenges some families experience when trying to get services for their children. As an example, local, community-based program coordinators bring service providers together with parents to discuss parent concerns about the services their children receive, or they may create a program to help students transitioning out of high school connect more with work and school in their communities. Coordinators are located throughout Pennsylvania and provide the framework for the activities of the Special Kids Network System of Care program.

The Office of Developmental Programs provides individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism, and their families the services and supports they need.

The Home and Community Services Information System (HCSIS) Services and Supports Directory is a tool for individuals with mental retardation, their families, and circle of support to locate services and service providers in Pennsylvania. The directory can help locate particular service providers or search for services and supports provided in an individual's community. The directory does not include information on all providers but only of those that have chosen to be listed in it. The directory also provides information about specific services funded by the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) under the home and community-based waiver programs.

The Home and Community Services Information System (HCSIS) maintains a current listing of all county HCSIS offices.

Rhode Island

Public mental health services for children in Rhode Island are administered by the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF), Division of Community Services & Behavioral Health (CSBH)and include the following examples: diagnostic assessment services, day treatment, residential counseling centers, residential treatment, psychiatric hospitalization, educational services, and prescription medication.

CSBH is responsible for the design, implementation, and monitoring of a continuum of therapeutic and clinical services to seriously emotionally/behaviorally disturbed children and youth, as well as providing programs aimed at maintaining healthy family functioning through an array of community-based therapeutic/supportive services. Children who are placed in the custody of the Department due to abuse, neglect, and dependency, as well as children who remain in the custody of their parents or legal guardians, are eligible for these services. Most of these services are delivered in community-based settings and processed through a central referral unit.

The Rhode Island Department of Human Services, Services for Children and Families administers the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid). When eligible for Medical Assistance, parents or guardians are then given a choice of enrollment in one of two participating health plans. Children who live in a institutional facility are excluded from health plan enrollment. In those situations, children will be enrolled in traditional Medical Assistance Fee-For-Service.

Enrollment in a Health Plan
Health Care Programs
Children who are eligible for medical assistance enroll in a participating health plan unless they live in an institution or residential facility. Participating health plans include: Neighborhood Health Plan of RI, UnitedHealthcare of New England, and Tufts Health plan. All health plans offer large networks of providers and covered benefits and services.

Enrollment in Medical Assistance Fee-for-Service
Children with Special Needs
If medically necessary, all children enrolled in Medicaid from birth to age 21 may qualify for additional health services and supports through the Medicaid Early, Periodic, Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment.

South Carolina

Public mental health services for children in South Carolina are administered by the Department of Mental Health (DMH), Division of Children, Adolescents and Their Families (DCAF) and include the following examples: assessment, case management services, day treatment, out-patient treatment (counseling/therapy), in-patient hospitalization, wraparound services, residential treatment services (in-patient general psychiatric and substance abuse units), school-based services, and Intensive Family Services and Multi-Systemic Therapy (MST) Initiatives.

Services are largely provided through the DMH’s network of local community mental health centers. DMH seeks to provide services in as natural and comfortable a setting for the family and child as possible, such as in the school or home. DMH’s vision is to develop a statewide system of services that is child centered, family focused, community based, and culturally competent.

See the website of the Division of Child, Adolescent, and Family Services (CAF) for detailed program information.

South Dakota

Public mental health services for children in South Dakota are administered by the Division of Behavioral Health. Services include the following examples: psychiatric and psychological evaluations, individual-group-family psychotherapy for the care and treatment of mental illness or disorders, in-patient and out-patient hospitalization, and prescription medication.

Tennessee

Public mental health services in Tennessee are administered by of Department of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities (DMHDD).

Tennessee’s Medicaid program is known as TennCare. Individuals enrolled in the TennCare program may receive medically necessary behavioral health services through their managed care organization including inpatient hospitalization, outpatient services, and supported housing. Individuals not qualifying for TennCare (Medicaid) may qualify for basic mental health services as uninsured individuals through local community mental health centers. Uninsured persons may also receive inpatient hospitalization as medically necessary. Housing options may also be available for this population. The Alcohol and Drug Abuse bureau provides Alcohol and Drug Abuse Treatment services to uninsured individuals as medically necessary through a network of providers.

Texas

Public mental health services for children in Texas are administered through the Health and Human Services Commission and include the following examples: psychiatric/psychological/behavioral health services, outpatient counseling for chemical dependency, in-patient hospital services, rehabilitative services and case management for mental illness, and prescription/pharmacy services.

About Medicaid and CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Plan)
Texas Medicaid client hotline: 800-252-8263.

See:
Texas Department of State Health Services, Mental Health Services.

Utah

Public mental health services for children in Utah are administered by the Department of Health through Public Mental Health Centers and their contracted providers. Mental health services are offered under the state Medicaid plan and include the following examples: diagnostic and rehabilitative services, individual and family psychotherapy, skills training and development, physician services, and prescription drugs.

Find Utah’s Medicaid website and a listing and description of its programs and services. See also Utah’s Adoption Connection page under Post Adoption Resources, Mental Health.

Vermont

Public mental health services for children in Vermont are administered by the Agency of Human Services, Department of Developmental and Mental Health Services (DDMHS) and include the following examples:

Crisis assessment and support
Service planning and coordination
Clinic-based treatment
Outreach treatment
Family support
Prevention, screening, referral and community consultation
Intensive residential service
Hospital inpatient services

The Department of Mental Health Children's Mental Health Services works with designated agencies in each region to assure delivery of effective behavioral health treatment and supports as well as prevention and early intervention services through a family-centered system of care for all children and families in the state.

Contact: Department of Mental Health
280 State Drive, NOB 2 North
Waterbury, VT 05671-2010
Phone: (802) 241-0090
Fax: (802) 241-0100

Find the following mental health resources for children in Vermont:

Vermont Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health (VFFCMH)

Federation resources

Local Federation support lines

The Department of Mental Health designates one agency in each geographic region of the state to provide the Department's mental health programs for adults and children.

Designated Agencies are private, non-profit service providers that are responsible for ensuring needed services are available through program delivery, local planning, service coordination, and monitoring outcomes within their region.

Virginia

Public mental health services for children in Virginia are administered through the Community Services Boards which are local components of the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS). The Community Services Boards provide the following services: case management, day treatment/partial hospital, crisis intervention, intensive in-home services to children and adolescents, therapeutic day treatment for children, and psychological rehabilitation. The Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) covers costs of some mental health services. You can also call the DMAS Recipient Helpline at (804) 786-6145 for help finding a provider.

Washington

Adoption Support offers assistance with individual therapy. Individual therapy means treatment focused on child’s needs, behaviors and interaction with family.

Adopted children have access to other mental health services available to any child in the general population.

Eligibility for mental health services, the nature of the services, and funding are subject to change. To find out what services are currently available contact your adoption support program consultant at 1.800.562.5682. For crisis situations, call a local 24 hour crisis line. If a life threatening emergency exists, call 911. For further information, please visit the Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) website.

Note: Not all services may be available in all cases. Contact your adoption assistance worker or state medical assistance specialist for process, eligibility, availability, and duration of services.

West Virginia

Public mental health services for children in West Virginia are administered by the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR), Bureau for Behavioral Health and Health Facilities (BBHHF). The BBHHF works to ensure that positive meaningful opportunities are available for people with mental illness (children, adolescents, and adults), substance abuse, intellectual and developmental disabilities and those at risk. The Bureau provides support for individuals, families, and communities in assisting persons to achieve their potential and to gain greater control over the direction of their future.

The Division of Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health is the Single State Authority for Children's Mental Health charged with monitoring and improving the children's behavioral health service delivery system. The Division works collaboratively across all child serving systems, at both the state and local level, to ensure access to quality behavioral health services and supports for children and adolescents with and or at risk for serious emotional disturbances. The Division provides leadership and technical assistance to facilitate an effective system of care for children and their families.

Note: Not all services may be available in all cases. Contact your adoption assistance worker, adoption specialist, local mental health provider, or medical assistance specialist for information regarding process, eligibility, availability, and duration of services.

Wisconsin

Public mental health services for children in Wisconsin are administered by the Department of Health Services (DHS), Wisconsin Medicaid. DHS Medicaid services include the following examples: inpatient hospital, skilled nursing facility, and intermediate care facility services for patients in institutions for mental disease; mental health and medical day treatment; mental health and psychosocial rehabilitative services, including case management services, provided by staff of a certified community support program; physician services; and prescription drugs.

In addition, ForwardHealth brings together various Department of Health Services health care and nutritional assistance benefit programs with the goal of improving health outcomes for members.

Note: Not all services may be available in all cases. Contact the Department of Children and Families Adoption Services Section toll-free by calling (866) 666-5532 or Wisconsin Forward Health at 800-362-3002 for information regarding process, eligibility, availability, and duration of services.

Wyoming

Public mental health services for children in Wyoming are administered by the Department of Health, Mental Health Division. Community mental health and physician outpatient mental health services are available. Children may be eligible for services under the Children’s Special Health Program (CSH) Program. Phone the CSH Program Manager at 1.800.438.5795 or 307.777.6921.

The Medicaid Care Management Entity acts as a central accountable hub to deliver community-based intensive care coordination services for children and youth with complex behavioral health needs.