Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers in Alaska
Alaska Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers: A No‑Fluff Statewide Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, Alaska‑specific guide for single moms who need mental health help now. It includes phone numbers, exact income limits where available, realistic timelines, mistakes to avoid, and a Plan B for every section. Links go straight to official sources.
Quick help box (start here)
- Call or text 988 for 24/7 crisis support anywhere in Alaska. You can press options for Veterans, Spanish, or LGBTQI+ youth; ASL videophone is available. Learn how 988 works in Alaska. (health.alaska.gov)
- Alaska’s Careline crisis line: 877‑266‑4357 (HELP). Text “4help” to 839863 (typically 3–11 p.m., Tue–Sat). Careline info. (health.alaska.gov)
- Not an emergency but need options fast? Call 2‑1‑1 or 1‑800‑478‑2221 (Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m., language help available). Alaska 2‑1‑1. (alaska211.org)
- Pregnant or parenting a newborn and need mental‑health care? Call the Postpartum Support International HelpLine 1‑800‑944‑4773 (call or text). PSI HelpLine details. (postpartum.net)
- Medicaid in Alaska (DenaliCare/Denali KidCare) application help: Virtual Contact Center 800‑478‑7778 (TDD 7‑1‑1). Apply for Medicaid. (health.alaska.gov)
- VA Alaska mental health (women veterans): behavioral health call center 907‑257‑4854. VA Alaska appointments. (va.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| What you need | Best first step | Contact | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Someone to talk to now | Call/text 988 | 988 | Alaska-specific routing; options for Veterans, Spanish, LGBTQI+ youth, and ASL. (health.alaska.gov) |
| Alaska crisis line | Careline | 877‑266‑4357; Text “4help” to 839863 | Text hours typically 3–11 p.m. Tue–Sat. (endbullyingak.org) |
| Local referrals today | Alaska 2‑1‑1 | 2‑1‑1 or 800‑478‑2221 | Mon–Fri 8:30–5; language help available. (alaska211.org) |
| Medicaid application help | DPA Virtual Contact Center | 800‑478‑7778 (TDD 7‑1‑1) | Apply online via Healthcare.gov or Alaska Connect. (health.alaska.gov) |
| Medicaid travel (non‑emergency) | Recipient Helpline | 800‑780‑9972 | Ask provider to request travel authorization. (health.alaska.gov) |
| NAMI Alaska support/education | NAMI Alaska | 907‑277‑1300 | Local affiliates in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau. (namialaska.org) |
| Postpartum help line | PSI | 800‑944‑4773 (call or text) | Non‑crisis emotional support and referrals. (postpartum.net) |
| Domestic violence shelter (Anchorage) | AWAIC | 907‑272‑0100 | 24/7 shelter; counseling & groups. (asdk12.org) |
| Sexual assault support (Anchorage) | STAR | 907‑276‑7273 | 24/7 crisis line. (asdk12.org) |
| Veterans mental health | VA Alaska | 907‑257‑4854 | Same‑day walk‑in at Anchorage VA. (va.gov) |
How to get mental‑health help today (realistic steps)
- Call or text 988 if you’re in emotional distress or worried about your safety or your children’s safety. If you’re hard of hearing, use the ASL videophone option or TTY 711 → 988. How 988 routes calls in Alaska. (health.alaska.gov)
- If a face‑to‑face response is needed in Anchorage, ask 911 for the Mobile Crisis Team (paramedic + licensed clinician). Outside Anchorage, 988 can coordinate local responses or advise on next steps. (alaskasnewssource.com)
- If your child is in crisis in Juneau/Southeast, call JAMHI’s 24‑hour line 907‑463‑3303 or SEARHC Helpline 1‑877‑294‑0074 while also contacting 988. (namijuneau.org, searhc.org)
- Not in crisis but need a therapist or psychiatry: call 2‑1‑1 for a list of sliding‑fee and Medicaid providers near you, or use Alaska Medicaid’s provider directory if you’re on Medicaid. 2‑1‑1 | Medicaid Provider Directory. (alaska211.org, health.alaska.gov)
- Pregnant or within 12 months postpartum and struggling with mood/anxiety: call PSI 800‑944‑4773 and ask your OB/midwife about Pregnant Women Medicaid—Alaska covers 12 months postpartum and increased the income limit to 225% FPL. State press release. (health.alaska.gov)
- If you’re Alaska Native/American Indian, call your tribal health organization (e.g., TCC Behavioral Health 907‑459‑3800 option 2 after‑hours, SEARHC Helpline 1‑877‑294‑0074) or ANTHC for patient travel questions 1‑866‑824‑8140. (tananachiefs.org, searhc.org, anthc.org)
- If you’re a veteran, call the VA Alaska behavioral health line 907‑257‑4854 (same‑day help at the Anchorage VA). (va.gov)
Paying for care in Alaska: Medicaid, CHIP (Denali KidCare), telehealth, and travel
The fastest path to coverage (start here)
- Apply online via Healthcare.gov or Alaska Connect; or call Alaska’s Virtual Contact Center 800‑478‑7778 to apply by phone. If you’re pregnant and need care right away, ask them to prioritize your application. Apply for Medicaid | Denali KidCare FAQ. (health.alaska.gov)
- Alaska extended postpartum Medicaid to 12 months and raised the pregnancy coverage limit to 225% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) starting February 1, 2024. Official announcement. (health.alaska.gov)
- 2025 Alaska FPL baselines (from Alaska WIC): 1 person 19,550∗∗,2people∗∗19,550**, 2 people **26,430, 3 people 33,310∗∗,4people∗∗33,310**, 4 people **40,190 annual income. We use these official baselines to estimate the Medicaid category limits below. Alaska WIC 2025–26 income guidelines. (health.alaska.gov)
2025 income reference for common Alaska coverage paths
These figures are based on the 2025 Alaska FPL. Always verify exact limits in the state’s “Medicaid Income and Eligibility Standards” chart.
| Coverage path | Who it’s for | 2025 income limit (annual) | 2025 income limit (monthly) | How to apply / notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medicaid Expansion (MAGI adults) | Adults 19–64 not eligible for other Medicaid | ≤ 138% FPL | Apply via Healthcare.gov or Alaska Connect; adults at or below 138% FPL qualify. Medicaid page. (health.alaska.gov) | |
| Example: 1 person (138%) | — | $26,979 | $2,248 | Computed from AK FPL. (health.alaska.gov) |
| Example: 2 people (138%) | — | $36,473 | $3,039 | Computed from AK FPL. (health.alaska.gov) |
| Denali KidCare—Pregnancy | Pregnant individuals (12 months postpartum coverage) | ≤ 225% FPL | Income limit increased to 225% FPL effective 2/1/2024. Press release. (health.alaska.gov) | |
| Example: “household of 2” (225%) | Single pregnant person typically budgets using household of 2 | $59,468 | $4,956 | Computed from AK FPL (2‑person baseline). Verify your counted household with DPA. (health.alaska.gov) |
| Example: 3 people (225%) | — | $74,948 | $6,246 | Computed from AK FPL. (health.alaska.gov) |
| Denali KidCare—Children | Children to age 18 | Limits vary by age and category | — | Use the state’s current “Medicaid Income and Eligibility Standards” PDF for the exact amount by age/category. Link: “2025 Medicaid Income and Eligibility Standards” on the Medicaid page. (health.alaska.gov) |
If you cannot see exact dollar thresholds for your household in the state’s PDF (some pages are being rebuilt), call the Virtual Contact Center at 800‑478‑7778 for the current figure and ask them to text or email it to you. (health.alaska.gov)
Telehealth (including audio‑only) is covered
- Alaska Medicaid pays for behavioral health delivered by real‑time video and audio‑only telehealth statewide if HIPAA and program rules are met. Alaska updated regulations effective September 1, 2023, and FAQs were refreshed in 2025. Telehealth policy overview (CCHP). (cchpca.org)
- Practical tip: If bandwidth is an issue in your village, ask your clinic for an audio‑only visit code; Medicaid allows audio‑only for covered behavioral health services. CCHP summary of AK rules. (cchpca.org)
Medicaid travel (so you can reach care)
- Alaska Medicaid covers local rides to appointments, and it can authorize non‑emergency travel to another community when services aren’t available locally. One escort may be covered if medically necessary (always ask your provider to request it with the travel authorization). Recipient helpline 800‑780‑9972. Medicaid Transportation—members page. (health.alaska.gov)
- Escorts: Alaska regulations allow an escort for recipients under 18, or adults when medically necessary, if authorized in advance. 7 AAC 120.430 escort rule. (regulations.justia.com)
- If you receive care through a tribal facility, your regional tribal travel office can help route travel. ANTHC Travel Management Office: 1‑866‑824‑8140; regional contacts listed here. ANTHC patient travel contacts. (anthc.org)
Crisis and urgent stabilization in Alaska
988 and Careline
- Alaska routes 988 calls/texts to trained crisis counselors; you can choose local Alaska counselors or national subnetworks (Veterans, Spanish, LGBTQI+ youth). 988 supports chat and ASL. How 988 works in Alaska. (health.alaska.gov)
- Alaska Careline remains available at 877‑266‑4357 (HELP), with text “4help” to 839863 in evening hours. Careline info. (health.alaska.gov)
- Alaska had one of the highest 988 contact rates per 1,000 residents in 2024, showing Alaskans are using the service. If you tried before and waited, try again—capacity has grown. JAMA‑based coverage. (axios.com)
Mobile Crisis Teams (MCTs) and hospital stabilization
- Anchorage Fire Department’s Mobile Crisis Team runs 7 days a week and the city has proposed funding to expand toward 24/7. Ask 911 to dispatch MCT for a behavioral health emergency. (alaskasnewssource.com)
- Designated Evaluation & Treatment (DET) facilities (inpatient psych) include: Bartlett Regional Hospital (Juneau), Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, Mat‑Su Regional Medical Center; PeaceHealth Ketchikan is designated for evaluation/stabilization (DES). Alaska Psychiatric Institute (API) is state‑run. State list of designated facilities. (dfcs.alaska.gov)
- Medicaid’s 1115 Behavioral Health Reform waiver (renewed through Dec 31, 2028) funds crisis and community‑based services across Alaska. This includes mobile crisis, peer supports, and more—ask providers if a service is funded under the 1115 waiver. 1115 waiver renewal. (health.alaska.gov)
Statewide programs and numbers you can use today
- NAMI Alaska (education/support groups; not a crisis line): 907‑277‑1300; NAMI Anchorage 907‑931‑9932; NAMI Fairbanks 907‑456‑4704; NAMI Juneau 907‑463‑4251. NAMI contacts. (namialaska.org)
- Alaska 2‑1‑1: 2‑1‑1 or 800‑478‑2221 (Mon–Fri 8:30–5). They can search statewide for counseling, groups, transportation, housing and more, with interpreters. 2‑1‑1 hours. (alaska211.org)
- Find a sliding‑fee community health center (many include behavioral health): Alaska Primary Care Association map. Find a Community Health Center. Federal policy requires sliding‑fee discounts up to 200% FPL; no one is turned away for inability to pay. HRSA Sliding Fee guidance. (alaskapca.org, bphc.hrsa.gov)
- Victim of crime counseling costs: Alaska’s Violent Crimes Compensation Board can help pay for mental‑health services, relocation, lost wages, and more. Apply within 2 years if possible (emergency awards available). 800‑764‑3040. VCCB. (vccb.alaska.gov)
- Having trouble with your health plan covering mental‑health care? File a complaint with the Alaska Division of Insurance Consumer Services (907‑269‑7900 or 1‑800‑INSURAK) for parity and claim issues. Insurance consumer complaints. (commerce.alaska.gov)
Postpartum and perinatal mental health
- Coverage: Alaska extended Medicaid postpartum coverage to 12 months and raised “Pregnant Women Medicaid” to 225% FPL effective February 1, 2024. State press release. (health.alaska.gov)
- What that looks like in dollars (2025 FPL): if you’re a single pregnant mom counting a 2‑person household, 225% FPL ≈ 59,468/year∗∗(≈∗∗59,468/year** (≈ **4,956/month). For three people, 74,948/year∗∗(≈∗∗74,948/year** (≈ **6,246/month). Confirm your counted household with DPA. Alaska WIC FPL baselines. (health.alaska.gov)
- Get support now: Postpartum Support International HelpLine 800‑944‑4773 (call or text) with Alaska chapter resources and coordinators. PSI AK Chapter. (psichapters.com)
- For baby/child developmental or behavior concerns, Help Me Grow Alaska offers free screening and family support statewide: 1‑833‑464‑2527. Help Me Grow Alaska. (a2p2.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your Medicaid application is pending and you need care now, ask DPA to prioritize your case (tell them you’re pregnant or your child needs urgent care). Call 800‑478‑7778. Denali KidCare page. (health.alaska.gov)
Children and teens (therapy, psychiatry, schools)
- EPSDT (Well‑Child): Medicaid must cover medically necessary mental‑health services for kids under 21. Ask your pediatrician for a referral and ask about EPSDT transportation (Anchorage 907‑269‑4575, toll‑free 888‑276‑0606). Medicaid Transportation page, EPSDT contacts. (health.alaska.gov)
- PAL‑PAK (your child’s prescriber can use this): Pediatric mental‑health consult line for Alaska providers via Seattle Children’s, coordinated by Help Me Grow Alaska: 855‑599‑7257 (Mon–Fri 7 a.m.–4 p.m. AKST). Ask your child’s provider to call. PAL‑PAK program. (a2p2.org)
- NAMI family support groups run in Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau. Use NAMI Alaska’s contact list above to find meeting times. (namialaska.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If waitlists are long, ask for a temporary telehealth appointment (video or audio‑only) and for a list of therapists who bill Medicaid under the 1115 waiver (peer supports, mobile crisis, etc.). 1115 waiver. (health.alaska.gov)
Diverse communities: tailored tips and resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: 988 has an LGBTQI+ youth/young adult option (press 3 or text “PRIDE” to 988). Many community health centers offer affirming care—ask 2‑1‑1 to sort by LGBTQ‑affirming providers. 988 options. (health.alaska.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a disabled child: EPSDT must cover medically necessary services; ask for transportation if needed (EPSDT travel contacts above). (health.alaska.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: mental‑health appointments line 907‑257‑4854; same‑day help at the Anchorage VA. Toll‑free primary care line 888‑353‑7574. VA Alaska. (va.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: use Alaska 2‑1‑1 for navigation with interpreters; PSI HelpLine supports Spanish. 2‑1‑1 / 800‑478‑2221; PSI en español: call 800‑944‑4773 and press #1. 2‑1‑1 | PSI. (alaska211.org, postpartum.net)
- Tribal citizens: use your regional tribal behavioral health services for counseling, psychiatry, and culturally grounded supports. Examples: Tanana Chiefs Conference Behavioral Health 907‑459‑3800 (option 2 after hours), SEARHC 24/7 Helpline 1‑877‑294‑0074. TCC Behavioral Health | SEARHC Behavioral Health. (tananachiefs.org, searhc.org)
- Rural single moms: ask clinics for audio‑only telehealth if video isn’t possible; Medicaid allows it for behavioral health. Check Medicaid travel options for specialty visits not available locally. Telehealth policy | Medicaid transportation. (cchpca.org, health.alaska.gov)
- Single fathers: all services in this guide apply to you too, including 988, Medicaid, NAMI, PSI (dads can call for support and groups). PSI HelpLine. (postpartum.net)
- Language access: DPA offers free interpretation when you call the Virtual Contact Center 800‑478‑7778 (TDD 7‑1‑1). DPA language access. (health.alaska.gov)
Local organizations and support (selected, verifiable contacts)
| Region | Organization | What they offer | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anchorage | NAMI Anchorage | Support groups, classes, referrals (not a crisis line) | 907‑931‑9932 (namianchorage.org) |
| Anchorage | AWAIC | Domestic violence shelter; counseling groups | 907‑272‑0100 (asdk12.org) |
| Anchorage | STAR | 24/7 sexual assault crisis line | 907‑276‑7273 (asdk12.org) |
| Fairbanks & Interior | Tanana Chiefs Conference Behavioral Health | Outpatient, crisis line routing, residential programs | 907‑459‑3800; After hours option 2 (tananachiefs.org) |
| Fairbanks North Star | NAMI Fairbanks | Support groups and classes | 907‑456‑4704 (nami.org) |
| Juneau/Southeast | NAMI Juneau | Support, resource navigation | 907‑463‑4251 (namijuneau.org) |
| Juneau | JAMHI Health & Wellness | 24‑hour crisis line, community mental health | 907‑463‑3303; Toll‑free 855‑463‑3303 (namijuneau.org) |
| Southeast | SEARHC Behavioral Health | 24/7 Helpline | 877‑294‑0074 (searhc.org) |
If your area isn’t listed, call 2‑1‑1 to pull current providers with sliding‑fee and language options. (alaska211.org)
Real‑world examples
- Anchorage mom on a tight budget uses a phone‑only therapy session after her clinic confirms Alaska Medicaid pays for audio‑only behavioral health. She also gets an escort authorized to fly with her child to a specialty evaluation not available locally. Telehealth policy | Escort rule. (cchpca.org, regulations.justia.com)
- Juneau mom calls JAMHI’s 24‑hour line and NAMI Juneau for follow‑up groups; for ongoing therapy she uses SEARHC’s 24/7 Helpline to set up care available in her community. (namijuneau.org, searhc.org)
Costs and financial help
- Community Health Centers must offer sliding‑fee discounts up to 200% FPL; many visits are low‑cost or nominal if income is ≤100% FPL. HRSA Sliding Fee requirements. (bphc.hrsa.gov)
- Hospital bills: Providence offers financial assistance based on income; use their calculator to see if you qualify for reduced or forgiven bills. Providence Financial Assistance. (providence.org)
- Crime‑related counseling: apply to the Violent Crimes Compensation Board for help paying therapy, relocation, and lost wages. 800‑764‑3040. VCCB. (vccb.alaska.gov)
Telehealth: what you can reasonably expect
- Alaska Medicaid covers behavioral health via real‑time video and audio‑only statewide if clinically appropriate and HIPAA‑compliant. Ask your clinic to bill using the correct telehealth code if you lack broadband. CCHP Alaska telehealth summary. (cchpca.org)
Key data and reality checks
- Suicide in Alaska remains well above the U.S. average. The Statewide Suicide Prevention Council posts the latest official figures each fall; monitor their page for current rates and regional trends. Alaska suicide statistics page. (health.alaska.gov)
- 988 contact rates in Alaska are among the highest in the nation, which means help is getting used—keep calling if the first attempt is busy. Coverage of JAMA analysis. (axios.com)
Tables you can screenshot
Table A. Crisis & urgent contacts
| Service | Phone/Text | When to use |
|---|---|---|
| 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | 988; ASL VP; text 988 | Any mental health or substance use crisis; 24/7. (health.alaska.gov) |
| Careline (AK) | 877‑266‑4357; text “4help” 839863 | Alaska‑based crisis line; evening text hours. (health.alaska.gov) |
| NAMI HelpLine | 800‑950‑6264 (M–F) | Info & support (not crisis). (namialaska.org) |
| Domestic Violence—AWAIC | 907‑272‑0100 | Shelter, counseling. (asdk12.org) |
| Sexual Assault—STAR | 907‑276‑7273 | 24/7 support. (asdk12.org) |
| VA crisis (Veterans) | 988, press 1 | 24/7 responders. (va.gov) |
Table B. 2025 Alaska income reference (selected)
| Household | 100% FPL (baseline) | 138% FPL (Medicaid adults) | 225% FPL (pregnancy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $19,550/yr | 26,979/yr∗∗( ∗∗26,979/yr** (~**2,248/mo) | 43,988/yr∗∗( ∗∗43,988/yr** (~**3,666/mo) |
| 2 | $26,430/yr | 36,473/yr∗∗( ∗∗36,473/yr** (~**3,039/mo) | 59,468/yr∗∗( ∗∗59,468/yr** (~**4,956/mo) |
| 3 | $33,310/yr | 45,968/yr∗∗( ∗∗45,968/yr** (~**3,831/mo) | 74,948/yr∗∗( ∗∗74,948/yr** (~**6,246/mo) |
| 4 | $40,190/yr | 55,462/yr∗∗( ∗∗55,462/yr** (~**4,622/mo) | 90,428/yr∗∗( ∗∗90,428/yr** (~**7,536/mo) |
Source: Alaska WIC 2025–26 guidelines for 100% FPL baselines; higher percentages calculated from those baselines. Verify program‑specific thresholds with DPA. WIC 2025–26 income table. (health.alaska.gov)
Table C. Getting to care (Medicaid travel)
| Situation | Who to call | Key point |
|---|---|---|
| Local rides | Ask your clinic to authorize | Medicaid covers local taxi/bus/wheelchair van to appointments. (health.alaska.gov) |
| Out‑of‑community care | Clinic must request travel authorization | Covered when service not available locally; least‑cost mode. (health.alaska.gov) |
| Escorts | Provider requests with travel | Under 18: escort covered; adults: if medically necessary. (regulations.justia.com) |
| Recipient questions | Recipient Helpline | 800‑780‑9972. (health.alaska.gov) |
Table D. Where you might be seen
| Level | Where in Alaska | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile crisis | Anchorage (citywide), growing elsewhere | On‑scene de‑escalation by clinician + EMT. (alaskasnewssource.com) |
| Crisis stabilization/evaluation | PeaceHealth Ketchikan (DES) | Short‑term stabilization & evaluation. (dfcs.alaska.gov) |
| Inpatient (DET) | Bartlett (Juneau), Fairbanks Memorial, Mat‑Su Regional | Inpatient psych evaluation/treatment. (dfcs.alaska.gov) |
| State hospital | Alaska Psychiatric Institute (API) | State‑run psychiatric hospital. (dfcs.alaska.gov) |
Table E. Who to contact by role
| You are… | First call |
|---|---|
| Pregnant/new mom with anxiety or depression | 800‑944‑4773 (PSI); ask DPA about 225% FPL pregnancy Medicaid. (postpartum.net, health.alaska.gov) |
| Parenting a child with behavior concerns | Pediatrician + PAL‑PAK (855‑599‑7257) + EPSDT travel lines. (a2p2.org, health.alaska.gov) |
| Alaska Native mom in Interior | TCC Behavioral Health 907‑459‑3800 (option 2 after hours). (tananachiefs.org) |
| Southeast mom | SEARHC Helpline 877‑294‑0074; NAMI Juneau 907‑463‑4251. (searhc.org, namijuneau.org) |
| Veteran mom | VA Alaska mental health 907‑257‑4854. (va.gov) |
Common mistakes to avoid (and how to fix them)
- Waiting to apply for Medicaid until after you find a provider. Apply first; coverage can backdate to your application date if you’re eligible. Call 800‑478‑7778 and ask for prioritization if you’re pregnant or your child is urgent. Denali KidCare FAQ. (health.alaska.gov)
- Assuming telehealth won’t be covered if you don’t have video. Alaska Medicaid covers audio‑only behavioral health when appropriate. If bandwidth is poor, ask the clinic to book an audio‑only appointment and bill correctly. Telehealth policy summary. (cchpca.org)
- Not asking for an escort for travel. Providers must request escort authorization when they request travel—tell them why it’s needed (child care, safety, cognitive issues). Escort rule. (regulations.justia.com)
- Skipping 2‑1‑1 because “it’s just a call center.” They have the most complete statewide database and can filter for sliding‑fee, language, and Medicaid providers. 2‑1‑1 / 800‑478‑2221. Alaska 2‑1‑1. (alaska211.org)
- Giving up after a bad 988 experience years ago. Capacity is higher now; Alaska’s 988 use is among the nation’s highest. Try again or call Careline 877‑266‑4357. (axios.com, health.alaska.gov)
Application checklist (Medicaid & help programs)
Have these ready to speed things up (upload via Alaska Connect or the secure document portal):
- Photo ID (you and any teen applicants).
- Proof of Alaska residency (lease, utility bill, mail).
- Income proof (last 30 days of pay stubs or self‑employment ledger).
- Pregnancy verification (for pregnancy Medicaid).
- Social Security numbers (if you have them).
- Health insurance info (if you have other coverage).
Where to submit:
- Apply online through Healthcare.gov or Alaska Connect; or call 800‑478‑7778 to apply by phone. Apply for Medicaid. (health.alaska.gov)
- Upload docs: DPA’s secure document upload portal (linked from the DPA page). DPA page with portals. (health.alaska.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you haven’t heard back and you’re pregnant or your child has urgent needs, call 800‑478‑7778 and ask DPA to prioritize your case (they can). Denali KidCare FAQ. (health.alaska.gov)
Realistic timelines
- Many MAGI Medicaid applications resolve within several weeks; complex cases can take longer. If you’ve waited and need care, ask for prioritization (pregnancy/urgent child needs) and keep receipts—coverage starts from your application date if approved. Denali KidCare FAQ. (health.alaska.gov)
- Behavioral health appointments: expect same‑day by phone with 988, and days to weeks for routine therapy/psychiatry (faster via telehealth). For Anchorage field response, the Mobile Crisis Team is active daily; coverage hours continue to expand. (alaskasnewssource.com)
If you hit a dead end
- Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for a live specialist to search for sliding‑fee therapy or Medicaid providers with immediate openings. (alaska211.org)
- If your insurance denies mental‑health coverage, call the Alaska Division of Insurance Consumer Services 907‑269‑7900 or 1‑800‑INSURAK to file a complaint (parity). (commerce.alaska.gov)
- If cost is the only barrier, check your nearest Community Health Center’s sliding‑fee program. Find a Health Center | HRSA Sliding Fee. (alaskapca.org, bphc.hrsa.gov)
10 Alaska‑specific FAQs
- Do I really get 12 months of postpartum Medicaid in Alaska?
Yes. Alaska extended postpartum coverage to 12 months and raised the pregnancy Medicaid income limit to 225% FPL on Feb 1, 2024. State announcement. (health.alaska.gov) - I can’t do video calls from my village. Will Medicaid pay for phone‑only therapy?
Yes—Alaska Medicaid covers audio‑only behavioral health when appropriate and HIPAA‑compliant. Telehealth rules summary. (cchpca.org) - Can I get help traveling to appointments?
Yes. Medicaid covers local rides and non‑emergency travel to another community if needed; one escort may be covered (provider must request it). Recipient Helpline 800‑780‑9972. Medicaid Transportation. (health.alaska.gov) - Where can I go in a mental‑health emergency?
Call 988. In Anchorage, ask 911 for the Mobile Crisis Team. Hospital DET units include Bartlett (Juneau), Fairbanks Memorial, and Mat‑Su Regional; API is the state hospital. (alaskasnewssource.com, dfcs.alaska.gov) - Who can help me find low‑cost counseling near me?
Call 2‑1‑1 to filter providers by sliding‑fee and Medicaid; many FQHC clinics offer behavioral health with sliding fees up to 200% FPL. 2‑1‑1 | HRSA policy. (alaska211.org, bphc.hrsa.gov) - I’m a veteran. Where do I book mental‑health care?
Call VA Alaska behavioral health 907‑257‑4854; same‑day help at Anchorage VA. VA appointments. (va.gov) - Is there a local number for crisis in Southeast?
Yes. SEARHC’s 24/7 Helpline is 1‑877‑294‑0074; NAMI Juneau’s resource hub is 907‑463‑4251. (searhc.org, namijuneau.org) - My counselor says I need inpatient care. Where would I go?
Alaska’s designated inpatient psych (DET) facilities: Bartlett (Juneau), Fairbanks Memorial, Mat‑Su Regional; API is state‑run. Designated facilities. (dfcs.alaska.gov) - I’m a crime victim and can’t afford therapy. Any help?
Yes—apply to the Violent Crimes Compensation Board; they can help pay counseling and related costs. 800‑764‑3040. VCCB. (vccb.alaska.gov) - Who do I call if my insurance won’t cover mental‑health treatment?
Alaska Division of Insurance Consumer Services 907‑269‑7900 / 1‑800‑INSURAK (parity & claim complaints). Consumer complaints. (commerce.alaska.gov)
What sets this guide apart (filling the gaps you’ll see online)
- Exact 2025 dollar figures grounded in Alaska’s published FPL baselines, with computed limits for 138% and 225% FPL, plus direct agency contacts to confirm current program numbers. (health.alaska.gov)
- Action‑first steps (who to call now), Medicaid travel/escort rules, audio‑only telehealth coverage, and a region‑by‑region contact table—areas many listicles miss. (health.alaska.gov, regulations.justia.com, cchpca.org)
- Realistic timelines, common mistakes, and a Plan B for each section—not just links.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the Alaska Department of Health, Division of Behavioral Health, Division of Public Assistance, Alaska 2‑1‑1, Alaska’s Department of Family and Community Services, VA Alaska, and established nonprofits like NAMI and SEARHC. It is produced based on our Editorial Standards—we use only official sources, test links, archive references, and track policy changes. We are not affiliated with any government agency and cannot guarantee individual outcomes.
Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Find an error or have a new resource? Email info@asinglemother.org.
Disclaimer
- Program details, income limits, and procedures can change. Always verify with the relevant agency before you apply or travel.
- This guide is information, not medical or legal advice. In an emergency, call 988 or 911.
- We aim to keep our site secure and up‑to‑date. If you spot a broken link or security issue, email info@asinglemother.org; urgent corrections are prioritized within 24–48 hours per our policy.
Sources (selected):
- 988 in Alaska: Alaska Department of Health pages on 988 (overview, options, ASL). (health.alaska.gov)
- Careline (AK crisis line) details. (health.alaska.gov)
- Alaska 2‑1‑1 hours/contacts (United Way of Anchorage). (alaska211.org)
- Denali KidCare and DPA Medicaid application info. (health.alaska.gov)
- Postpartum Medicaid expansion to 12 months; 225% FPL. (health.alaska.gov)
- Alaska WIC 2025–26 income baselines (used to compute 138% and 225% FPL). (health.alaska.gov)
- Telehealth coverage (audio‑only allowed). (cchpca.org)
- Medicaid transportation and escort rules. (health.alaska.gov, regulations.justia.com)
- Designated psychiatric facilities (DET/DES). (dfcs.alaska.gov)
- NAMI Alaska contacts; regional affiliates. (namialaska.org)
- VA Alaska mental‑health appointment line. (va.gov)
- SEARHC Helpline; JAMHI 24‑hour crisis line. (searhc.org, namijuneau.org)
- 1115 Behavioral Health Reform waiver renewal to 2028. (health.alaska.gov)
- Violent Crimes Compensation Board application portal & contacts. (vccb.alaska.gov, application.vccb.alaska.gov)
- Providence financial assistance overview. (providence.org)
- Alaska Suicide Prevention statistics hub (official updates). (health.alaska.gov)
- 988 usage rates coverage (contextual). (axios.com)
What to do next: bookmark this page, screenshot the Quick Help box and Tables A–E, and make your first call today.
🏛️More Alaska Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Alaska
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