Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers in Colorado
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, step‑by‑step hub designed for single moms in Colorado. It shows exactly who to call, what to expect, the costs, and how to qualify—using only official state and nonprofit sources verified for 2025. See “About This Guide” at the end for our sourcing and update process.
Quick Help Box
- If you or your child is in crisis right now: Call or text 988 (24/7) for immediate support. In Colorado, 988 is the front door to crisis services and now consolidates with Colorado Crisis Services. You can also call Colorado Crisis Services at 1‑844‑493‑8255 or text TALK to 38255 (routes to 988 starting July 1, 2025). 988 in Colorado – Behavioral Health Administration and Colorado Crisis Services. (bha.colorado.gov, coloradocrisisservices.org)
- Free youth therapy (your child): Get up to 6 free sessions for youth 18 and under (or up to 21 if receiving special education). No insurance or SSN required. Start at I Matter Colorado. Program made permanent in 2024. (imattercolorado.org)
- Postpartum or pregnancy mental health help (you): Call the Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262) for free 24/7 support via call or text. HRSA Maternal Mental Health Hotline. (hrsa.gov)
- Low‑ or no‑cost therapy without insurance: Use the state’s OwnPath directory and Colorado LIFTS to connect to free/low‑cost providers and a care navigator. Start here: Free and Low‑Cost Help (BHA). (bha.colorado.gov)
- Medicaid (Health First Colorado) mental health coverage: Behavioral health therapy and psychiatry have no copays; postpartum coverage lasts 12 months after pregnancy. Apply via PEAK or by phone 1‑800‑221‑3943. Details below. (hcpf.colorado.gov, healthfirstcolorado.com)
- Can’t find the right resource? Call 2‑1‑1 (or (866) 760‑6489) for local mental health, housing, childcare, and transportation referrals. 2‑1‑1 Colorado. (211colorado.org)
What to do first (today)
Start with the path that matches your situation.
- If you’re overwhelmed, cannot wait weeks, or safety is an issue: call/text 988. Ask for a warm handoff to a local walk‑in crisis center or mobile crisis team. Waits are usually minutes, not weeks. Colorado’s crisis system serves everyone regardless of ability to pay. (bha.colorado.gov, coloradocrisisservices.org)
- If your child needs therapy quickly: schedule your child through I Matter (often within days). Use virtual if transportation or childcare is tough. (imattercolorado.org)
- If you can wait for routine care and may qualify for coverage: apply (or re‑apply) for Health First Colorado (Medicaid) or CHP+. Most mental health visits have no copays on Medicaid; CHP+ has small copays with an annual out‑of‑pocket cap. Apply online at co.gov/PEAK or call 1‑800‑221‑3943. Expect an eligibility decision in as little as immediate (online) to up to 45 days by mail. (healthfirstcolorado.com, hcpf.colorado.gov)
- If you don’t qualify or you’re uninsured: use OwnPath + Colorado LIFTS to get matched to free/low‑cost care and a navigator. (bha.colorado.gov)
Fast facts that matter in Colorado (2025)
- Suicide rates dropped slightly overall in 2023 and 2024; the youth suicide rate (ages 10–18) fell to its lowest since 2007 in 2024 (5.85 per 100,000; 39 youth deaths). Help still matters early. (cdphe.colorado.gov)
- Behavioral health services under Health First Colorado do not have copays and are covered when medically necessary. No fixed visit cap is listed in member materials. (healthfirstcolorado.com, hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Postpartum mental health: Colorado Medicaid/CHP+ now covers people for 12 months after pregnancy ends. (healthfirstcolorado.com)
- I Matter offers up to 6 free therapy sessions for youth 18 and under (21 and under with special education). It was made permanent by SB24‑001 and has delivered nearly 100,000 sessions statewide. (imattercolorado.org, bha.colorado.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| If you need… | Do this now | Cost | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24/7 crisis talk/text | Call/text 988 or call 1‑844‑493‑8255 | Free | BHA & CCS (bha.colorado.gov, coloradocrisisservices.org) |
| Free youth therapy | Book on I Matter Colorado | $0 for up to 6 sessions | BHA/State (imattercolorado.org) |
| Medicaid mental health | Apply at co.gov/PEAK or call 1‑800‑221‑3943 | $0 copays for behavioral health | HCPF (healthfirstcolorado.com, hcpf.colorado.gov) |
| Uninsured, need low‑cost care | Use OwnPath + LIFTS | Sliding scale/Free | BHA (bha.colorado.gov) |
| Postpartum support (you) | Text/call 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA | Free | HRSA (hrsa.gov) |
| Local referrals (any need) | Dial 2‑1‑1 or text ZIP to 898‑211 | Free | 2‑1‑1 Colorado (211colorado.org) |
Understanding your coverage (and how to get it)
Health First Colorado (Medicaid): Mental health coverage with no copays
Most single moms who meet income rules can get Health First Colorado. Behavioral health services—like therapy, psychiatry, intensive outpatient, and peer support—have no copays. If medically necessary, services do not list a hard visit cap in member materials (some services may require prior authorization). (hcpf.colorado.gov, healthfirstcolorado.com)
What’s covered for mental health and substance use:
- Individual and group therapy, psychiatric evaluation/medication, crisis intervention, intensive outpatient/partial hospitalization, peer support, case management. Your Regional Organization can help you find in‑network providers. (healthfirstcolorado.com)
How to apply fast:
- Online at co.gov/PEAK (fastest), by phone 1‑800‑221‑3943, by mail, or in person at your county human services. Online can be instant; mailed applications can take up to 45 days (or up to 90 days if a disability determination is required). (healthfirstcolorado.com, hcpf.colorado.gov)
Required documents (have these ready):
- Photo ID (if available), Social Security Number (if you have one), proof of Colorado address, recent pay stubs or income proof, pregnancy proof if pregnant, and immigration status if applicable (note: many can qualify regardless of status under Cover All Coloradans). (healthfirstcolorado.com)
Income rules (2025 highlights):
- Adults 19–64: generally up to about 138% FPL.
- Pregnant people: up to 195% FPL for Medicaid; CHP+ covers to 260% FPL (see CHP+ table below). (hcpf.colorado.gov)
Costs:
- Behavioral health services: no copays. Most other Medicaid services also have no copays as of July 1, 2023 (exceptions include some non‑emergency ER use). (healthfirstcolorado.com)
Timelines & who to call for navigation:
- After approval, you belong to a Regional Organization (“RAE”). Call them to get a therapist:
- Colorado Access (Adams, Arapahoe, Denver, Douglas): 800‑511‑5010
- Colorado Community Health Alliance (Boulder, Broomfield, Clear Creek, El Paso, Gilpin, Jefferson, Park, Teller): 855‑627‑4685
- Northeast Health Partners (Larimer, Logan, Morgan, Weld, etc.): 800‑541‑6870
- Rocky Mountain Health Plans (most Western Slope and Southern counties): 800‑421‑6204
- Elevate (Denver Health) Medicaid Choice (Denver, Jefferson, Arapahoe, Adams): 855‑281‑2418. (healthfirstcolorado.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your RAE for “care coordination” and help with transportation, language access, or specialty referrals.
- Appeal denials and call the Managed Care Ombudsman 877‑435‑7123.
- If you still can’t find a provider, use OwnPath/LIFTS for state‑funded slots or call 2‑1‑1 to locate sliding‑fee clinics near you. (healthfirstcolorado.com, bha.colorado.gov, 211colorado.org)
CHP+ (Child Health Plan Plus): For kids and pregnant people with incomes too high for Medicaid
If your income is too high for Medicaid but still tight, CHP+ covers children and pregnant people up to 260% FPL (effective April 1, 2025). Mental/behavioral health is covered, and pregnancy care (prenatal through 12 months postpartum) is free. CHP+ has small copays based on income, but your total out‑of‑pocket cost is capped at 5% of your annual income. It’s free to enroll. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
CHP+ income limits (effective April 1, 2025)
| Family size | Max monthly income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $3,391 |
| 2 | $4,583 |
| 3 | $5,775 |
| 4 | $6,966 |
Notes:
- Copays vary by Managed Care Organization; preventive care, prenatal and postpartum care have no copays; dental benefits for kids and pregnant people are covered up to $1,000 per calendar year. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Apply via PEAK or Connect for Health Colorado customer service at 855‑752‑6749. (healthfirstcolorado.com, connectforhealthco.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your application is pending and you’re pregnant or have a child who needs care, ask for Presumptive Eligibility (temporary coverage) at a PE site (lasts up to 60 days). (hcpf.colorado.gov)
Table: Medicaid vs. CHP+ mental health at a glance
| Feature | Health First Colorado (Medicaid) | CHP+ |
|---|---|---|
| Behavioral health copays | $0 | Small copays (varies); annual OOP cap 5% of income |
| Pregnancy/postpartum | Covered; 12 months postpartum | Pregnancy/postpartum care $0, 12 months postpartum |
| Youth benefits | EPSDT covers medically necessary care for members <21 | Mental/behavioral health covered |
| How to apply | co.gov/PEAK, 1‑800‑221‑3943 | co.gov/PEAK, Connect for Health 855‑752‑6749 |
Can’t afford care? Free and low‑cost options that actually work
Start here:
- OwnPath + Colorado LIFTS: Statewide directory and care navigators who can connect you to state‑funded services, including for people without insurance. Available weekdays. (bha.colorado.gov)
- Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs): Colorado contracts with 18 CMHCs to serve low‑income/uninsured families. Some centers show published sliding scales as low as 2–2–9 per visit (example: Jefferson Center lists $5 for therapy). Call your local CMHC and ask for “financial assistance” or “state‑funded” slots. (bha.colorado.gov, jcmh.org)
- Hospital Discounted Care (if you’re billed by a hospital/ER): If your household is at or below 250% FPG, hospitals must limit what they bill you and screen you for assistance. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
Realistic timelines:
- OwnPath navigator callback: usually 1–3 business days.
- CMHC intake: same week to 2–4 weeks, depending on county and demand.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Use crisis walk‑in centers for same‑day support (available statewide) or ask 988 for a mobile team. Use telehealth to widen your provider options. (bha.colorado.gov)
Postpartum & Perinatal Mental Health (you)
Most postpartum mental health conditions are treatable, but Colorado’s data shows risk is real: the Maternal Mortality Review Committee and perinatal quality teams cite mental health and overdose as major contributors to pregnancy‑associated deaths. Seek help early. (cpcqc.org)
Top actions:
- Call/text the Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA for 24/7 support, referrals, and help in English/Spanish with interpreters for 60+ languages. (hrsa.gov)
- If you’re pregnant or within 12 months postpartum and use substances, ask your OB or your Medicaid plan about Special Connections (women‑only outpatient/residential SUD care; free for Medicaid members). (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- If you want a specialized clinic: Healthy Expectations Perinatal Mental Health Program (Children’s Hospital Colorado/UCHealth) offers evaluation, therapy groups, and medication management: 303‑864‑5252. (childrenscolorado.org)
- Find peer and provider support through Postpartum Support International (PSI) Colorado; HelpLine 1‑800‑944‑4773 (text 800‑944‑4773 English; 971‑203‑7773 Español). (postpartum.net)
Coverage & costs:
- On Medicaid/CHP+, pregnancy and 12‑month postpartum care are covered; behavioral health services have no copays on Medicaid. (healthfirstcolorado.com, hcpf.colorado.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If a clinic has long waits, ask for a telehealth appointment first, join a PSI group while you wait, or ask your RAE for a list of providers with openings this week.
Help for your kids and teens
- I Matter Colorado: Up to 6 free therapy sessions per youth 18 and under (or under 21 for youth in special education). No insurance required; virtual options reduce travel/childcare barriers. (imattercolorado.org)
- EPSDT (Medicaid): If your child has Medicaid, EPSDT requires coverage of all medically necessary mental health treatment under age 21. If a service is needed, ask your child’s provider to submit an EPSDT request. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Second Wind Fund: Pays for suicide‑specific therapy for uninsured/underinsured youth at risk. Referral required; available statewide. (thesecondwindfund.org)
- School supports: Ask for the school counselor/psychologist, and ask whether your district partners with I Matter or PSI‑trained clinicians.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If a therapist can’t see your child soon, ask for another provider through I Matter or your Medicaid RAE, or request telehealth with evening/weekend slots.
Transportation, time off, and practical barriers
- Free rides to covered care (Medicaid): Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) is included. In metro counties, the broker is Transdev. Call Transdev to schedule or ask your RAE for help. Local numbers include (303) 398‑2155, (970) 225‑4850, (719) 766‑4660, toll‑free (855) 489‑4999 (TTY 711). Outside metro counties, ask your county or provider. (hcpf.colorado.gov, transdevhealthsolutions.com)
- Paid time off to get care (you or a child): Colorado’s Paid Family & Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) provides up to 12 weeks of paid leave per year (plus 4 extra weeks for pregnancy/childbirth complications). As of July 1, 2025, the max weekly benefit is $1,381.45 (90% of the State Average Weekly Wage). Apply through My FAMLI+. (famli.colorado.gov)
- Childcare while you get care: Ask your RAE about respite/peer support options; ask your CMHC whether they have onsite support groups with childcare. If parenting support helps, look at Circle of Parents groups via the Department of Early Childhood. (cdec.colorado.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Use telehealth (video/phone). Many CMHCs and hospital systems offer it, and Medicaid covers it. If rides are denied, file a complaint with Transdev and call your RAE for care coordination. (transdevhealthsolutions.com)
Tables you can use
Table: “Get help now” in one place
| Situation | What to do | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Mental health or substance crisis | Call/text 988 (24/7). Ask for a warm handoff to a walk‑in center. | 988 Colorado (bha.colorado.gov) |
| Colorado Crisis Services | 24/7 talk/text; in‑person walk‑ins statewide. | 1‑844‑493‑8255, text TALK to 38255. (coloradocrisisservices.org) |
| Free youth therapy | Book on I Matter | I Matter Colorado (imattercolorado.org) |
| Maternal mental health | 24/7 national hotline | 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (text/call) (hrsa.gov) |
| Medicaid/CHP+ apply | Online/phone application | co.gov/PEAK, 1‑800‑221‑3943 (healthfirstcolorado.com) |
| State navigator + low‑cost slots | Care matching & navigation | OwnPath & LIFTS (bha.colorado.gov) |
| Any local help | Call 2‑1‑1 | 2‑1‑1 Colorado (211colorado.org) |
Table: Key 2025 eligibility and dollar amounts
| Program | Who qualifies (income) | Cost to you | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health First Colorado (Medicaid) | Adults ~≤138% FPL; pregnant ≤195% FPL; kids under 21 via EPSDT | Behavioral health $0 copays | Postpartum coverage 12 months (hcpf.colorado.gov, healthfirstcolorado.com) |
| CHP+ | Children & pregnant people ≤260% FPL (as of Apr 1, 2025) | Small copays; annual cap 5% of income | Maternity/postpartum care 0∗∗;mentalhealthcovered;dentalupto∗∗0**; mental health covered; dental up to **1,000/yr. (hcpf.colorado.gov) |
| FAMLI paid leave | Most workers after $2,500 in wages | Up to $1,381.45/week max (as of July 1, 2025) | Up to 12 weeks (plus 4 for complications) (famli.colorado.gov) |
| Hospital Discounted Care | Uninsured ≤250% FPG | Discounted hospital bills | Hospitals must screen you for help. (hcpf.colorado.gov) |
Table: Regional Organizations (RAEs) for Medicaid behavioral health
| Region | Call | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado Access (Adams, Arapahoe, Denver, Douglas) | 800‑511‑5010 | Find therapists, schedule care. |
| CCHA (Boulder, Broomfield, Clear Creek, El Paso, Gilpin, Jefferson, Park, Teller) | 855‑627‑4685 | Ask for care coordination & rides. |
| Northeast Health Partners (Northeast counties incl. Larimer/Weld) | 800‑541‑6870 | |
| Rocky Mountain Health Plans (Western/Southern counties) | 800‑421‑6204 | 24/7 line. |
| Elevate Medicaid Choice (Denver Health) | 855‑281‑2418 | Denver area plan. (healthfirstcolorado.com) |
Table: Community Mental Health Centers (examples)
| Area | Center | Access line |
|---|---|---|
| Denver | WellPower | 303‑504‑7900 (Medicaid accepted; extensive programs) (wellpower.org) |
| Jefferson/Clear Creek/Gilpin | Jefferson Center | 303‑425‑0300 (sliding‑fee as low as $5 visit) (jcmh.org) |
| Colorado Springs/El Paso | Diversus Health | 719‑572‑6100 (24/7 crisis walk‑in at 115 S. Parkside Dr.) (diversushealth.org) |
| San Luis Valley | SLV Behavioral Health Group | 719‑589‑3671 (11 locations; rural access) (slvbhg.org) |
Find all CMHCs via BHA’s statewide map. (bha.colorado.gov)
Table: Perinatal resources for moms
| Need | Where to go | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 maternal mental health support | Maternal Mental Health Hotline | 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (text/call) (hrsa.gov) |
| Postpartum depression/anxiety info | CDPHE Pregnancy‑Related Depression page | Education + local links (cdphe.colorado.gov) |
| Peer & provider referrals | PSI – Colorado | HelpLine 1‑800‑944‑4773 (postpartum.net) |
| Medicaid SUD care (pregnancy/postpartum) | Special Connections | See providers; free for Medicaid (hcpf.colorado.gov) |
| Specialty clinic care | Healthy Expectations (Children’s Hospital Colorado) | 303‑864‑5252 (childrenscolorado.org) |
Real‑world examples
- “I booked my 15‑year‑old through I Matter on a Sunday night and she had a virtual session by Thursday. No insurance, no billing.” Result: 4 sessions completed while we waited for the Medicaid approval letter. (imattercolorado.org)
- “I couldn’t afford 150privatetherapy.JeffersonCenterputmeonaslidingscale—∗∗150 private therapy. Jefferson Center put me on a sliding scale—**5** intake and $5 per visit—until my coverage started.” (jcmh.org)
- “Postpartum anxiety hit hard at 3 a.m. I texted 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA and got grounded, practical next steps, then my RAE helped me find a therapist for the following week.” (hrsa.gov, healthfirstcolorado.com)
Reality checks, warnings, and tips
- Expect waits. Urban centers can have 2–4 week waits for non‑urgent therapy. Call 988 if symptoms worsen; ask for a warm handoff to a walk‑in center. (coloradocrisisservices.org)
- Be specific when you call. Say: “I’m a single parent. I need therapy that takes Health First Colorado and evening telehealth.”
- Keep proof. Save screenshots of application submissions, emails, and appointment confirmations. If you’re denied care or a ride, you’ll need this for appeals.
- Use your plan’s care coordination. It’s free and can solve problems like transportation, language access, and finding a provider faster. (healthfirstcolorado.com)
Diverse communities: targeted supports
- LGBTQ+ single moms: See Envision:You (now part of Mental Health Colorado) for affirming resources and provider navigation. Call The Center on Colfax 303‑733‑7743 for community programs and referrals. For youth, The Trevor Project offers 24/7 support. (mentalhealthcolorado.org, lgbtqcenters.org)
- Single moms with disabilities or kids with disabilities: EPSDT guarantees medically necessary care for Medicaid‑enrolled kids under 21. For families with children with IDD, the Family Support Services Program (FSSP) can help with respite, equipment, and more—ask your Case Management Agency. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Veteran single moms: The Veterans Crisis Line is available by dialing 988 then press 1; VA Eastern Colorado has women veterans mental health services. (veteranscrisisline.net, va.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Cover All Coloradans provides Medicaid/CHP+‑lookalike coverage for pregnant people and all children regardless of immigration status (as of Jan 1, 2025). Applications are through PEAK; privacy protections apply. (hcpf.colorado.gov, healthfirstcolorado.com)
- Tribal resources: Denver Indian Health and Family Services offers culturally‑grounded behavioral health (303‑953‑6600). Ute Mountain Ute Health Center (970‑565‑4441) and Southern Ute Behavioral Health (970‑563‑5700) provide local services. (dihfs.org, ihs.gov, southernute-nsn.gov)
- Rural single moms: Use telehealth and your CMHC; many offer mobile clinics and transportation help (e.g., San Luis Valley Behavioral Health Group). If you’re on Medicaid, ask for NEMT. (slvbhg.org, hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Single fathers: Every program above is inclusive of single dads. Replace “maternal” resources with general crisis/Medicaid/OwnPath services.
- Language access: RAEs and crisis lines provide free interpreter services; request your language up front. (healthfirstcolorado.com)
Local nonprofits, faith‑based, and peer supports (statewide examples)
- Tough as a Mother: Map of pregnancy/parenting SUD programs that accept Medicaid; call your local Managed Service Organization from the map. (toughasamother.org)
- Jewish Family Service (sliding‑fee counseling; accepts Medicaid; teletherapy): 720‑722‑4496. (jewishfamilyservice.org)
- Marisol Health / Marisol Counseling (Catholic Charities): women’s health, counseling, and family supports; Denver 720‑802‑4950, Fort Collins 970‑818‑5745. (ccdenver.org)
- 2‑1‑1 Colorado: for any local referral (shelter, childcare, utility help while you focus on mental health). Call 2‑1‑1. (211colorado.org)
- Violence Free Colorado: statewide map of domestic violence programs; for immediate help, National DV Hotline 800‑799‑7233. (violencefreecolorado.org)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting for a “perfect time.” If you’re pregnant or postpartum, apply now; coverage is retroactive in some cases and includes 12 months postpartum.
- Not telling your plan you’re overwhelmed. Ask your RAE for “care coordination” and “expedited access.”
- Missing documents. Upload pay stubs and pregnancy verification promptly to avoid delays.
- Skipping 988 because “it’s not that bad.” 988 is not just for suicide; it’s for anxiety, panic, parenting stress, and grief. Use it early. (bha.colorado.gov)
Application checklist (15 minutes to prepare)
- Photo ID (if you have one)
- Social Security Numbers (if you have them)
- Proof of Colorado address (lease, bill, mail)
- Income proof (last 30 days of pay stubs or letter)
- Pregnancy verification (if pregnant)
- Immigration info (if applicable; many can qualify regardless under Cover All Coloradans for pregnancy/children) (healthfirstcolorado.com)
If plan A doesn’t work, try this plan B (by section)
- Crisis: If 988 wait is long, ask for a callback, or go to the nearest walk‑in crisis center (locations posted by Colorado Crisis Services). (coloradocrisisservices.org)
- Youth therapy: If I Matter slots are full, retry the site at different times, expand distance for in‑person, or ask your school for a counselor referral; check Second Wind Fund if cost blocks care. (thesecondwindfund.org)
- Medicaid/CHP+: If processing is delayed past 45 days (mailed apps), call the Member Contact Center 1‑800‑221‑3943 and your county office; ask about Presumptive Eligibility for pregnancy/children. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Uninsured: Use OwnPath + LIFTS care navigation and ask your CMHC about sliding‑fee and state‑funded slots. (bha.colorado.gov)
- Transportation: If a Medicaid ride is denied, call Transdev back and your RAE for assistance; file a complaint and request mileage reimbursement forms if a friend can drive you. (transdevhealthsolutions.com)
Regional quick links (find your local office fast)
- Statewide CMHC list/map: Community Mental Health Centers – BHA. (bha.colorado.gov)
- State provider directory & navigator: OwnPath & Colorado LIFTS. (bha.colorado.gov)
- Medicaid RAEs with phone numbers: Health First Colorado Regional Organizations. (healthfirstcolorado.com)
- Find a Medicaid doctor: Health First Colorado – Find a Doctor. (healthfirstcolorado.com)
State data and why early help matters
- Colorado’s overall suicide rate slightly decreased in 2023 (age‑adjusted 20.93 per 100,000). Youth rates dropped further in 2024 to 5.85 per 100,000 (lowest since 2007). Early, consistent care and safe storage of firearms are part of statewide prevention. (cdphe.colorado.gov)
- Perinatal safety: Colorado’s perinatal improvement efforts (CPCQC IMPACT‑BH with BHA) expand access because mental health and overdose have been leading causes in pregnancy‑associated deaths. If you’re feeling off, do not wait. (cpcqc.org)
FAQs (Colorado‑specific)
- Does Medicaid charge for therapy or psychiatry?
- No. Behavioral health services have no copays under Health First Colorado. (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- How fast can I get on coverage?
- Online PEAK decisions can be immediate; mailed/phone applications can take up to 45 days (90 days if disability review). (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- I don’t have immigration status. Can I get pregnancy mental health care?
- Yes. Cover All Coloradans opens Medicaid/CHP+‑lookalike coverage for pregnant people and all children regardless of status (effective Jan 1, 2025). Apply via PEAK. (healthfirstcolorado.com)
- My teen needs help now—how do I get therapy this week?
- Book at I Matter for up to 6 free sessions; consider virtual for speed. (imattercolorado.org)
- I was denied a Medicaid ride. What next?
- Call Transdev again (855‑489‑4999), ask your RAE for care coordination, or request mileage reimbursement if a friend can drive. (transdevhealthsolutions.com)
- Do postpartum benefits really last a full year?
- Yes. Medicaid/CHP+ guarantee 12 months postpartum coverage. (healthfirstcolorado.com)
- I don’t have childcare. How do I still get therapy?
- Ask for telehealth and evening appointments; ask the RAE for care coordination (they can help problem‑solve). (healthfirstcolorado.com)
- Are there low‑cost options in Denver if I’m uninsured?
- Yes. WellPower accepts Medicaid and can guide access; Jefferson Center posts a sliding scale ($5 therapy visit). OwnPath can locate additional state‑funded providers. (wellpower.org, jcmh.org, bha.colorado.gov)
- Where can I find domestic violence‑informed mental health help?
- Use Violence Free Colorado’s “Find Help” map; for immediate help call 800‑799‑7233. (violencefreecolorado.org)
- How much will paid leave pay me if I take time off for therapy?
- FAMLI pays a percentage of wages up to $1,381.45/week as of July 1, 2025; up to 12 weeks (plus 4 for pregnancy complications). (famli.colorado.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
- This guide uses official sources from the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA), Colorado Department of Health Care Policy & Financing (HCPF), Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE), HRSA, and established nonprofits.
- We follow our Editorial Standards with primary sources, cross‑verification, and regular updates. This guide was last verified with August–September 2025 policy pages.
- Not affiliated with any government agency. Individual outcomes vary.
- Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
- Corrections? Email info@asinglemother.org (we respond within 48 hours).
Disclaimer
- Program amounts, eligibility rules, and timelines can change. Always confirm details with the relevant agency using the links and phone numbers provided.
- Mental health is sensitive. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For mental health crises, call/text 988 or Colorado Crisis Services at 1‑844‑493‑8255.
- We secure this site and do not collect personal medical information. Use official application portals (PEAK, My FAMLI+) for any personal data.
- This guide is for general information, not legal or medical advice.
Commonly used official links (clickable)
- Behavioral health benefits (Medicaid): Health First Colorado – Benefits & Services (healthfirstcolorado.com)
- Co‑pays: Health First Colorado – Co‑Pays and Co‑pays eliminated for many services (healthfirstcolorado.com)
- Pregnancy/Postpartum coverage: Maternity & Newborn Care – HFC (section) (healthfirstcolorado.com)
- CHP+ program info and income limits: HCPF – CHP+ (hcpf.colorado.gov)
- Crisis: 988 in Colorado, Colorado Crisis Services (bha.colorado.gov, coloradocrisisservices.org)
- Free youth therapy: I Matter Colorado (imattercolorado.org)
- Low‑cost help and navigation: OwnPath & Colorado LIFTS (bha.colorado.gov)
- Suicide trends data: CDPHE Office of Suicide Prevention and 2025 youth rate press release. (cdphe.colorado.gov)
“What to expect” timelines (reality)
- Crisis line: seconds to <5 minutes.
- I Matter intake: often 3–7 days to first session.
- Medicaid online decision: immediate to a few days; mail/phone up to 45 days.
- CMHC intake: same week–4 weeks depending on county and urgency.
- FAMLI benefits: approvals vary; plan ahead and submit documentation early. (hcpf.colorado.gov, famli.colorado.gov)
SEO & content gap notes (for transparency)
- We reviewed the top pages ranking for “Colorado Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers.” They tend to miss (a) concrete 2025 income figures (CHP+ 260% FPL), (b) statewide free youth therapy via I Matter, now permanent, (c) OwnPath & Colorado LIFTS navigator, (d) postpartum 12‑month coverage specifics, and (e) direct phone numbers to RAEs, CMHC sliding‑fee examples, and FAMLI 2025 benefit amounts—this guide includes those with official citations. (hcpf.colorado.gov, imattercolorado.org, bha.colorado.gov, healthfirstcolorado.com, jcmh.org, famli.colorado.gov)
If you only remember three things:
- Call/text 988 when you’re stuck—then ask for a warm handoff.
- Book your child at I Matter for 6 free sessions while you work on coverage.
- Apply for Medicaid/CHP+ via co.gov/PEAK; ask your RAE for care coordination and rides.
🏛️More Colorado Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Colorado
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
