Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers in Maryland
Maryland Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This guide is written for single moms in Maryland. It gives you fast, accurate steps, real numbers, and direct links to official help for mental health care, postpartum support, crisis services, and low‑cost coverage.
Quick Help Box (start here)
- Call or text 988 for 24/7 crisis support anywhere in Maryland. Counselors answer in English and Spanish, with interpreter access in 150+ languages. If your phone has a non‑MD area code, your call routes by area code (ask to be connected to Maryland resources if needed). Learn about 988 in Maryland. (health.maryland.gov)
- For statewide resource navigation (not just crisis), dial 2‑1‑1 or text 898‑211. You can also search the database online for mental health providers, support groups, and benefits. Find mental health support at 211 Maryland. (211md.org)
- Pregnant or within 12 months after delivery? Call or text the free, 24/7 National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1‑833‑852‑6262 (1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA). About the hotline (HRSA). (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- Need postpartum peer support? Postpartum Support International (PSI) HelpLine: 1‑800‑944‑4773; text “HELP” to 800‑944‑4773 (English) or “HOLA” to 971‑203‑7773 (Spanish). PSI contact options. (postpartum.net)
- Montgomery County residents: 24‑Hour Crisis Center (walk‑in or phone) 240‑777‑4000, 1301 Piccard Dr., Rockville. Official county page. (montgomerycountymd.gov)
- Baltimore region psychiatric urgent care (walk‑in): Sheppard Pratt Psychiatric Urgent Care, 7220 Discovery Dr., Elkridge. Hours: Daily 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Phone 410‑938‑5302. Location and hours. (sheppardpratt.org)
- Find your county’s Local Behavioral Health Authority (LBHA) for help lining up services (Medicaid or uninsured): LBHA directory (Carelon). (maryland.carelonbh.com)
What we checked in the top search results—and the gaps we fixed
We reviewed the first‑page results for “Maryland Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers,” including Maryland Department of Health pages, 211 Maryland, county crisis centers, and national maternal mental health resources. Common gaps we found:
- No one place with 2025 Medicaid income limits for moms and kids in dollars per month (not just percentages).
- Postpartum and pregnancy‑specific support is scattered—few guides show the exact hotlines, free Medicaid programs (home visiting, doulas, CenteringPregnancy), and how to apply quickly.
- Confusing crisis options—many pages list older 10‑digit lines without clearly leading with 988 or how calls route in Maryland.
- Few step‑by‑step application checklists, realistic timelines, or Plan B options if applications stall.
- Limited coverage of new changes in Maryland’s public behavioral health system (Carelon now runs the ASO) and where to call. (maryland.optum.com, maryland.carelonbh.com)
This guide closes those gaps with current numbers, direct county contacts, and clear steps.
Maryland’s fastest mental health actions (do these first)
- Call or text 988 if you’re in crisis, or worried about your safety or your child’s safety. Ask for Maryland resources if your phone number has a non‑MD area code. 988 has English/Spanish lines and interpreter access to 150+ languages. MDH 988 announcement. (health.maryland.gov)
- If you’re pregnant or in the first 12 months after birth and feel anxious, depressed, or not yourself, text or call 1‑833‑852‑6262 (free, 24/7, English/Spanish with interpreters). National Maternal Mental Health Hotline. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- For quick local referrals (therapy, support groups, Medicaid help), dial 2‑1‑1 or text 898‑211; or search online. 211 Maryland mental health page. (211md.org)
- If you can get to Elkridge, Sheppard Pratt’s Psychiatric Urgent Care provides same‑day assessment and referral, daily 10 a.m.–9 p.m. 410‑938‑5302. Details. (sheppardpratt.org)
- Domestic violence and mental health go together. House of Ruth Maryland 24/7 hotline 410‑889‑7884; toll‑free 888‑880‑7884. 211 listing for House of Ruth MD. (search.211md.org)
Reality check: 988 calls route by area code, not GPS location. If you have an out‑of‑state cell number, ask the counselor to connect you to Maryland‑based services and your county LBHA for follow‑up. (health.maryland.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t get through right away, hang up and call back, or use 988 chat/text. If you need in‑person help in Montgomery County, go to 1301 Piccard Dr., Rockville (24/7). County crisis center. (montgomerycountymd.gov)
How mental health care is organized in Maryland (what to know before you apply)
- Maryland’s Public Behavioral Health System (PBHS) pays for Medicaid mental health and, in some cases, state‑funded services for qualifying uninsured residents who meet medical necessity criteria. As of January 1, 2025, Carelon Behavioral Health is the state’s Behavioral Health Administrative Services Organization (BHASO). Call 800‑888‑1965 for PBHS participant help. Carelon BH Maryland. (maryland.carelonbh.com)
- Your county’s Local Behavioral Health Authority (LBHA) is your frontline “system navigator.” They help find outpatient clinics, mobile crisis, case management, residential programs, and state‑funded options if you’re uninsured. LBHA directory (Carelon). (maryland.carelonbh.com)
- Maryland is expanding mobile crisis and launching behavioral health crisis stabilization centers in several jurisdictions with new state grants. These are 24/7 alternatives to ERs for urgent help up to 24 hours. MDH grant announcement. (health.maryland.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t reach your LBHA quickly, call 800‑888‑1965 (Carelon PBHS) or 2‑1‑1 to get a live person who can warm‑transfer you to county help. (maryland.carelonbh.com, 211md.org)
Coverage and costs: Medicaid, MCHP, and marketplace plans
For most single moms, the cheapest route to therapy and psychiatry is Medicaid (including during pregnancy and the 12‑month postpartum period), or the Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP) for your kids.
2025 Medicaid and MCHP income limits (monthly)
The Maryland Department of Health publishes the exact monthly income limits used by Maryland Health Connection. These are effective January 1, 2025. (health.maryland.gov)
| Household size | Adults (Medicaid Expansion) | Children (MCHP/MCHP Premium) | Pregnant (Medicaid) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,801 | $4,202 | N/A |
| 2 | $2,433 | $5,677 | $4,654 |
| 3 | $3,065 | $7,152 | $5,863 |
| 4 | $3,698 | $8,630 | $7,075 |
Source: Income and Asset Limits by Coverage Group (MDH). (health.maryland.gov)
Key points:
- Medicaid covers full benefits during pregnancy and for 12 months postpartum regardless of changes in income. Effective April 1, 2022 (ongoing). MDH postpartum coverage press release. (health.maryland.gov)
- MCHP covers kids with full Medicaid benefits through an MCO. As of May 1, 2024, Maryland ended premiums for MCHP Premium—the coverage continues with no premium. MCHP program notice. (health.maryland.gov)
- If you don’t qualify for Medicaid, marketplace (private) plans through Maryland Health Connection still offer premium tax credits and cost‑sharing reductions. Enhanced marketplace subsidies are available through plan year 2025 under the Inflation Reduction Act. Health Affairs explainer and Maryland Health Connection cost‑sharing info. (healthaffairs.org, marylandhealthconnection.gov)
Reality check: Marketplace premiums and deductibles can still be high even with help. If you’re close to the Medicaid limits, apply anyway—many moms qualify.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Maryland Health Connection at 855‑642‑8572 to review options with a navigator; or try 211’s database to find a navigator near you. MHC contact (MCHP page) and 211 Maryland. (health.maryland.gov, 211md.org)
How to apply for Medicaid fast (step‑by‑step)
- Apply online at Maryland Health Connection. You can apply year‑round for Medicaid/MCHP. You may get an immediate decision if you qualify by income. People’s Law Library timeline. (peoples-law.org)
- If you’re pregnant, select pregnancy in your application. Postpartum coverage lasts 12 months after the pregnancy ends. MDH postpartum coverage. (health.maryland.gov)
- Choose your Medicaid MCO (managed care plan) after approval to start using benefits. Call the HealthChoice Helpline 800‑284‑4510 if you need help choosing or switching. HealthChoice member help. (health.maryland.gov)
- If you need a therapist or psychiatrist, use the Medicaid Provider Finder or call your MCO. Medicaid Provider Finder. (health.maryland.gov)
- For specialty behavioral health (outpatient clinics, Mobile Treatment, Residential Crisis, PRP, ACT), ask your provider to request authorization through Carelon. Carelon authorization page. (maryland.carelonbh.com)
Typical timeline: If you’re income‑eligible, you may get an immediate online decision; otherwise, expect 30–60 days for a decision. Coverage starts the first day of the month you applied, and you may get up to 3 months retroactive coverage if eligible. People’s Law Library. (peoples-law.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your application stalls, contact the HealthChoice Helpline 800‑284‑4510 and your county LBHA for help scheduling care while you wait. HealthChoice help and LBHA directory. (health.maryland.gov, maryland.carelonbh.com)
Postpartum and pregnancy‑specific supports (free with Medicaid)
Maryland Medicaid funds several maternal programs that directly support mental health and stress management during and after pregnancy:
| Program | What it does | Cost | How to access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home Visiting Services (Healthy Families America; Nurse‑Family Partnership) | Coaching on parenting, stress, mental health and community resources during pregnancy and up to age 2–3 | $0 for Medicaid members | Ask your prenatal provider or your MCO; see MDH overview: Medicaid Home Visiting. (health.maryland.gov) |
| CenteringPregnancy | Group prenatal care with guided discussions on mental health, stress, and support | $0 for Medicaid members | Call your MCO or provider; MDH info: CenteringPregnancy Services. (health.maryland.gov) |
| Doula/Birth Worker Services | Continuous support before, during and shortly after birth; can flag mental health needs and connect to care | $0 for Medicaid members | Ask your MCO; MDH program info: Medicaid Doula Program. (health.maryland.gov) |
| National Maternal Mental Health Hotline | 24/7 support for pregnant and postpartum people; interpreters in 60+ languages | Free | 1‑833‑852‑6262 (call or text). HRSA FAQ. (mchb.hrsa.gov) |
| PSI HelpLine | Peer help and Maryland‑specific referrals for perinatal mood/anxiety disorders | Free | 1‑800‑944‑4773; text English 800‑944‑4773, Español 971‑203‑7773. PSI contact. (postpartum.net) |
Maryland data point: In Maryland PRAMS data, approximately 14% of mothers reported postpartum depression symptoms; MDH recognizes maternal mental health as a priority and promotes doula/other supports. MDH maternal mental health awareness release. (health.maryland.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you cannot get connected through your MCO, ask your county LBHA to help you locate an Outpatient Mental Health Clinic (OMHC) with perinatal experience, or use PSI’s directory to filter Maryland therapists with PMH‑C credentials. LBHA directory. (maryland.carelonbh.com)
Getting services through Maryland’s Public Behavioral Health System (PBHS)
- PBHS covers outpatient therapy (OMHC), psychiatry, Mobile Treatment, Residential Crisis Services, PRP, ACT, and more—based on medical necessity and plan rules. Providers request authorization through the ASO (Carelon). Carelon services/authorizations. (maryland.carelonbh.com)
- If you are uninsured, LBHAs can help you explore state‑funded options. Some services for uninsured participants require meeting specific criteria (e.g., recent hospital discharge) and medical necessity. Ask your LBHA how to qualify and what documentation is needed. Carelon specialty services note re: state‑funded PRP eligibility. (maryland.carelonbh.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Carelon participant support at 800‑888‑1965 for help finding a PBHS provider and checking eligibility, or contact 211 for a warm transfer. Carelon contact. (maryland.carelonbh.com)
How much care “costs” in the system (what providers bill vs. what you pay)
For Medicaid, behavioral health visits are typically covered with no copay. To understand how the system values a visit, Maryland posts its fee schedule for providers. These are examples of Medicaid reimbursement amounts (you don’t pay these—this is what the program pays the clinic or clinician):
| Service (adult unless noted) | Setting/clinician | Medicaid reimbursement (FY) |
|---|---|---|
| Individual psychotherapy, 45 minutes | OMHC | $109.45 |
| Individual psychotherapy, 45 minutes | Physician | $92.76 |
| Individual psychotherapy, 45 minutes | Psychologist | $75.58 |
| Family therapy with patient, 45–60 | OMHC | $98.53 |
| Psychiatric day treatment (non‑hospital), half‑day | Program | $117.64 per day |
| ACT (assertive community treatment), monthly | Medicaid recipient | $1,256.30 per month |
Source: Maryland regs 10.21.25 fee schedule updates. Mental Health Services Fee Schedule pages and Behavioral Health Admin fee items. (health.maryland.gov)
Reality check: These amounts can change and aren’t caps on how many sessions you can get. Medicaid covers medically necessary care; some services need prior authorization.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic’s benefits staff to verify your coverage and whether an authorization is needed. If a claim is denied, call your MCO member services or Carelon PBHS at 800‑888‑1965 to troubleshoot. Carelon contact. (maryland.carelonbh.com)
County and regional options you can use right now
| Area | What to use first | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Statewide | 988 (24/7) and 211 | 988 for crisis; 211 for ongoing resource navigation and weekly mental health check‑ins via 211 Health Check and text programs (MDMindHealth). 988 in MD; 211 mental health. (health.maryland.gov, 211md.org) |
| Montgomery County | 24‑Hour Crisis Center 240‑777‑4000; walk‑in accepted | 1301 Piccard Dr., Rockville; no fee for crisis services; mobile crisis team responds countywide. County page. (montgomerycountymd.gov) |
| Baltimore metro | Sheppard Pratt Psychiatric Urgent Care 410‑938‑5302 | Same‑day assessment/referral, 10 a.m.–9 p.m., 7 days. Location/hours. (sheppardpratt.org) |
| All counties | Find your LBHA | LBHAs coordinate local mental health systems, including help for uninsured residents. LBHA directory (Carelon). (maryland.carelonbh.com) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t reach a county line, go back to 988 and ask the counselor to connect you to a local mobile crisis team or LBHA.
Real‑world examples
- A mom in Prince George’s County, newly postpartum, calls 988 for racing thoughts and no sleep. The counselor does a safety check and provides same‑day referrals. She texts PSI the next morning and is linked to a Maryland PMH‑C therapist. She applies for Medicaid postpartum coverage (12 months) and is approved the same day due to income. She asks her MCO to enroll in home visiting for extra support. Postpartum coverage expansion and Home Visiting. (health.maryland.gov)
- A mom in Frederick loses coverage after moving and missing mail. She calls 211, which helps her update her Maryland Health Connection account and connects her to the county LBHA to keep therapy going while re‑enrolling. 211 Maryland get help. (211md.org)
- A Baltimore City mom needs urgent medication adjustments. She goes to Psychiatric Urgent Care in Elkridge after school drop‑off and gets a same‑day plan and follow‑up with an OMHC. Sheppard Pratt urgent care. (sheppardpratt.org)
Diverse Communities: tailored options and tips
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: If you want identity‑affirming peer support with no non‑consensual emergency calls, Trans Lifeline’s peer line is 877‑565‑8860. For youth in your household, The Trevor Project offers 24/7 counseling via phone, text, and chat; use the “Reach a Counselor” button on their site. Trans Lifeline hotline and The Trevor Project contact hub. (translifeline.org, thetrevorproject.org)
- Veteran single mothers: Maryland’s PBHS and Carelon highlight “Maryland’s Commitment to Veterans”—free, confidential coordination to connect veterans and families with behavioral health care. Start at Carelon’s Veterans section and ask for Maryland’s Commitment to Veterans resources. Carelon Veterans page. (maryland.carelonbh.com)
- Moms with disabilities or kids with disabilities: You may qualify for additional Medicaid pathways and Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) mental health services for children. Ask your child’s MCO and your LBHA about EPSDT. EPSDT program home. (health.maryland.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee moms (qualified non‑citizens): Children and many pregnant people may be eligible for MCHP/Medicaid. See MCHP’s immigration status requirements and apply. MCHP overview. (health.maryland.gov)
- Tribal citizens: SAMHSA‑funded Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) must serve regardless of ability to pay and coordinate care. Use SAMHSA’s CCBHC page to understand services, then ask your LBHA which clinics near you are CCBHCs or accept uninsured patients. About CCBHCs (SAMHSA). (samhsa.gov)
- Rural areas with limited providers: Use 988 and 211 to reach mobile crisis and telehealth options. Many programs now offer video visits; county LBHAs can help solve transportation barriers. 211 Maryland mental health page. (211md.org)
- Single fathers and co‑parents: Most resources here apply regardless of gender. For intimate partner violence, House of Ruth Maryland helps all survivors. Hotline: 410‑889‑7884. 211 House of Ruth listing. (search.211md.org)
- Language access: 988 provides English/Spanish lines and interpreter services in 150+ languages; 211 also offers multilingual support. MDH 988 announcement and 211 get help. (health.maryland.gov, 211md.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your LBHA to connect you to culturally specific providers and to interpreter services at no cost to you.
A few Maryland organizations that single moms often use
- House of Ruth Maryland (24/7 hotline, shelter, legal help) – 410‑889‑7884. Domestic violence services statewide with counseling and legal advocacy. (search.211md.org)
- Behavioral Health System Baltimore (LBHA for Baltimore City) – See LBHA directory for contact details; LBHAs manage local mental health systems. (maryland.carelonbh.com)
- Sheppard Pratt Psychiatric Urgent Care – 410‑938‑5302. Same‑day psychiatric assessment. (sheppardpratt.org)
- 211 Maryland: Mental Health Support – Searchable 24/7 resource directory with text check‑ins (MDMindHealth). (211md.org)
- Postpartum Support International – Maryland – State chapter, peer groups, provider directory. (psichapters.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a number doesn’t connect, retry and then default to 988. For non‑emergency navigation, dial 2‑1‑1.
Quick‑reference cheat sheet
| Need | One‑click resource |
|---|---|
| Crisis now | Call or text 988 in Maryland (24/7). (health.maryland.gov) |
| Postpartum support | National Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑852‑6262. (mchb.hrsa.gov) |
| Perinatal peer line | PSI HelpLine 1‑800‑944‑4773 (text available). (postpartum.net) |
| Medicaid income limits | 2025 monthly limits (MDH). (health.maryland.gov) |
| Apply for coverage | Maryland Health Connection |
| Find county help | LBHA directory (Carelon). (maryland.carelonbh.com) |
| Medicaid provider search | MD Medicaid Provider Finder. (health.maryland.gov) |
Application checklist (bring or upload these)
- Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or other accepted ID).
- Social Security numbers (if available) for household members applying.
- Proof of Maryland address (lease, bill, mail).
- Proof of income for the last 30 days (paystubs, benefits letters, child support, unemployment).
- If pregnant, any proof of pregnancy (doctor or clinic note). Not required to apply, but can speed things up.
- Immigration documents, if applicable (for qualified non‑citizens applying).
- If you lost coverage, notices or letters you received.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Submit the application anyway; you can upload documents later. Call Maryland Health Connection 855‑642‑8572 if the portal asks for something you don’t have. (health.maryland.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting for things to “calm down” before you call. If you’re struggling, call 988 now. It’s free and fast. (health.maryland.gov)
- Using a non‑MD cell phone and assuming 988 will know where you are. Say “I’m in Maryland” and ask to be linked to local resources. (health.maryland.gov)
- Not updating your address/phone in Maryland Health Connection—missed mail leads to lost coverage. Use your online account or call. (health.maryland.gov)
- Skipping the MCO choice after approval. Without choosing your plan, it’s harder to book care. Call the HealthChoice Helpline 800‑284‑4510 if you’re unsure. (health.maryland.gov)
- Assuming sliding‑fee clinics are always cheaper than Medicaid. If you’re close to the limits, apply—many moms qualify. (health.maryland.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county LBHA to help troubleshoot benefits or find a clinic that takes your coverage. LBHA directory. (maryland.carelonbh.com)
Timelines you can expect
| Task | Realistic timeline |
|---|---|
| 988 call/text response | Seconds to a couple of minutes. (mchb.hrsa.gov) |
| Medicaid eligibility decision | Immediate if income‑eligible; otherwise 30–60 days. Coverage begins the first day of the application month; retro up to 3 months possible. (peoples-law.org) |
| MCO selection and ID card | Usually within 1–2 weeks after approval (ask for temporary info if you need to book earlier). |
| First therapy appointment | Varies by clinic and county; ask your LBHA to help find the fastest OMHC with openings. (maryland.carelonbh.com) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you face a safety issue or need meds urgently, use Psychiatric Urgent Care (Elkridge) 410‑938‑5302 (10 a.m.–9 p.m. daily) or your county crisis center. (sheppardpratt.org)
Early childhood and school‑age supports that reduce mom stress
- For infants and toddlers: Ask your pediatrician and your MCO about developmental screening and referrals; EPSDT requires medically necessary behavioral health services for kids on Medicaid. EPSDT home. (health.maryland.gov)
- School‑based services: Maryland has expanded access to school‑based mental health for Medicaid kids in 2025. Contact your child’s school and MCO. MDH Medicaid home (announcements). (health.maryland.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your county LBHA’s child/youth team for provider lists and case management help. LBHA directory. (maryland.carelonbh.com)
When you need in‑person help fast (not the ER)
Maryland is funding crisis stabilization centers (24/7, up to 24 hours stay) as ER alternatives in multiple jurisdictions (Baltimore City; Howard, Montgomery, Prince George’s, St. Mary’s, Washington counties). These centers provide screening, brief treatment, and linkage. Use 988 to be directed to the nearest center. MDH crisis stabilization grants. (health.maryland.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a mobile crisis team through 988, or use a county walk‑in option like Montgomery County’s 24‑Hour Crisis Center. (montgomerycountymd.gov)
Frequently asked questions (Maryland‑specific)
- What are the 2025 income limits for a household of 2?
- Adults (Medicaid expansion): 2,433/month∗∗;Children(MCHP):∗∗2,433/month**; Children (MCHP): **5,677/month; Pregnant Medicaid: $4,654/month. MDH income limits (Jan 1, 2025). (health.maryland.gov)
- How long is postpartum Medicaid in Maryland?
- 12 months after the pregnancy ends, regardless of income changes. MDH postpartum expansion. (health.maryland.gov)
- Do I have to pay premiums for my child’s MCHP coverage?
- As of May 1, 2024, premiums for MCHP Premium ended; coverage continues with no premium. MCHP program notice. (health.maryland.gov)
- What if my 988 call routes to another state?
- Tell the counselor you live in Maryland and need local referrals; 988 routes by phone area code. MDH 988 note on routing. (health.maryland.gov)
- Who runs the public mental health system now?
- Carelon Behavioral Health is Maryland’s BH Administrative Services Organization as of January 1, 2025. Participant support: 800‑888‑1965. Carelon BH Maryland. (maryland.carelonbh.com)
- I need an appointment this week—who can see me fastest?
- Try Sheppard Pratt Psychiatric Urgent Care (Elkridge) 410‑938‑5302 for a same‑day assessment 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; ask your LBHA for OMHCs with open slots. Sheppard Pratt urgent care. (sheppardpratt.org)
- Where do I find local county contacts?
- Use the LBHA directory for all 24 jurisdictions. LBHA directory (Carelon). (maryland.carelonbh.com)
- Is there a weekly check‑in option by text if I’m not in crisis?
- Yes. 211 Health Check and text programs (text “MDMindHealth” to 898‑211). 211 mental health supports. (211md.org)
- Do clinics accept people without insurance?
- Some do via state funds or CCBHCs, but capacity is limited and criteria apply. Ask your LBHA about uninsured pathways. SAMHSA on CCBHCs. (samhsa.gov)
- Are there fees for crisis calls?
- No. 988 and 211 are free and confidential. MDH 988 info and 211 get help. (health.maryland.gov, 211md.org)
Tables you can scan fast
Crisis & postpartum hotlines (free, 24/7 unless noted)
| Service | Number / How to use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | Call/text 988 | Spanish available; interpreter access for 150+ languages; routed by phone area code. MDH 988. (health.maryland.gov) |
| National Maternal Mental Health Hotline | 1‑833‑852‑6262 | 24/7, English/Spanish; interpreters in 60+ languages. HRSA. (mchb.hrsa.gov) |
| PSI HelpLine (postpartum) | 1‑800‑944‑4773; text “HELP” 800‑944‑4773, “HOLA” 971‑203‑7773 | Peer support and Maryland referrals. PSI. (postpartum.net) |
| House of Ruth Maryland (DV) | 410‑889‑7884 (24/7) | Shelter, counseling, legal help. 211 listing. (search.211md.org) |
| Montgomery Co. Crisis Center | 240‑777‑4000 | 24/7 phone & walk‑in. County site. (montgomerycountymd.gov) |
2025 Medicaid/MCHP monthly income limits (select sizes)
| Size | Adults | Children | Pregnant |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,801 | $4,202 | — |
| 2 | $2,433 | $5,677 | $4,654 |
| 3 | $3,065 | $7,152 | $5,863 |
| 4 | $3,698 | $8,630 | $7,075 |
Source: MDH income limits (effective Jan 1, 2025). (health.maryland.gov)
Sample Maryland Medicaid behavioral health reimbursement amounts (what clinics are paid)
| Service | Amount |
|---|---|
| Individual psychotherapy 45 min (OMHC) | $109.45 |
| Individual psychotherapy 45 min (Physician) | $92.76 |
| Family therapy 45–60 (OMHC) | $98.53 |
| Partial hospitalization, half‑day | $117.64/day |
| ACT (monthly) | $1,256.30/month |
Source: MD regs 10.21.25 fee schedule updates. (health.maryland.gov)
Maternal Medicaid add‑on supports (no out‑of‑pocket)
| Program | Cost | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Home Visiting | $0 | Through your MCO or prenatal provider. MDH Home Visiting. (health.maryland.gov) |
| CenteringPregnancy | $0 | Ask your MCO to locate a site. MDH CenteringPregnancy. (health.maryland.gov) |
| Doula services | $0 | Request via your MCO. MDH Doula Program. (health.maryland.gov) |
Who to call for what
| Situation | Best first call |
|---|---|
| Suicidal thoughts or acute panic | 988 |
| Need a same‑day assessment | 410‑938‑5302 (Sheppard Pratt Urgent Care) |
| Lost Medicaid / need to reapply | 855‑642‑8572 (Maryland Health Connection) |
| Find local providers/case management | LBHA for your county (directory link above) |
| Domestic violence + trauma help | 410‑889‑7884 (House of Ruth Maryland) |
If you’re hitting barriers
- Can’t get an appointment: Call your LBHA and ask for “open access” OMHCs or clinics with walk‑in intakes; ask your MCO to assign a care manager to help schedule.
- Coverage lapses: Update your address and phone with Maryland Health Connection and your MCO; ask about presumptive eligibility if you’re pregnant.
- Paperwork overload: Upload what you have now; submit the rest later. Keep a note on what’s outstanding and calendar your due dates.
- Safety at home: Call 988 or House of Ruth. Safety planning comes first.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Maryland Department of Human Services, Maryland Department of Health (Behavioral Health Administration & Medicaid), 211 Maryland, HRSA, and established nonprofits (PSI, Sheppard Pratt, House of Ruth). It follows our Editorial Standards focused on primary sources, frequent updates, and practical steps. We are independent researchers, not a government agency, and cannot guarantee individual outcomes. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
If you spot an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org. We investigate and correct verified issues within 48 hours.
Disclaimer
- Program rules, income limits, and phone numbers can change. Always verify with the official agency linked in this guide before you apply or make decisions.
- This guide is information, not medical, legal, or mental health advice. If you are in danger, call 911. For a mental health crisis, call or text 988.
- Security note: We link only to official government sites or established nonprofits whenever possible, and we avoid linking to pages with known malware risks. Still, use standard web safety practices and keep your devices updated.
Source highlights (dated and verified)
- Maryland Department of Health (MDH) – 988 launch and language access; calls route by area code; 8 in‑state call centers. July 18, 2022. (health.maryland.gov)
- MDH – 2025 monthly Medicaid/MCHP income limits (effective Jan 1, 2025). (health.maryland.gov)
- MDH – Postpartum Medicaid coverage extended to 12 months (effective Apr 1, 2022). (health.maryland.gov)
- MDH – MCHP page noting premiums ended May 1, 2024. (health.maryland.gov)
- Carelon Behavioral Health – Maryland PBHS Administrative Services Organization; provider manuals and LBHA directory; participant support line 800‑888‑1965. 2025. (maryland.carelonbh.com)
- MDH – 2024–2025 crisis stabilization center grants (24/7 centers, mobile crisis expansion). (health.maryland.gov)
- MDH Regulations – 10.21.25 fee schedule updates (sample therapy and ACT reimbursement amounts). 2024–2025. (health.maryland.gov)
- HRSA – National Maternal Mental Health Hotline details (1‑833‑852‑6262). 2023 FAQ (service ongoing). (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- PSI – HelpLine numbers and text options. 2025. (postpartum.net)
- 211 Maryland – Mental health resource navigation, text programs. 2024–2025. (211md.org)
- Sheppard Pratt – Psychiatric Urgent Care hours and location. 2025. (sheppardpratt.org)
- Montgomery County HHS – 24‑Hour Crisis Center, 240‑777‑4000. 2025. (montgomerycountymd.gov)
- SAMHSA – CCBHC model serves regardless of ability to pay; 24/7 crisis requirement. 2023–2025. (samhsa.gov)
If you need anything else—like help calling your county office or reading a notice—tell us your county and we’ll map out the exact next three steps.
🏛️More Maryland Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Maryland
- 📋 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
