Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers in Montana
Montana Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers: A No‑Fluff 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, Montana‑specific hub to help you get mental health care fast, figure out how to pay for it, and avoid common delays. Every phone number and dollar figure below is from official state or federal sources or established nonprofits and is verified for September 2025.
Quick Help (use this first)
- In immediate danger: Call 911.
- 24/7 crisis line for mental health or suicidal thoughts: Call or text 988 (answered in Montana by local centers). See details at Montana 988 (DPHHS). (dphhs.mt.gov)
- Not in crisis but need to talk today: Montana Recovery Warmline (877‑688‑3377). Current hours posted by Mental Health America of Montana. See MHA of Montana – Warmline. (mhaofmt.org)
- Text support (free, 24/7): Text “MT” to 741‑741 (Crisis Text Line), per the State of Montana benefits site. See State of Montana – Mental Health Support. (benefits.mt.gov)
- Find local services (therapy, support groups, housing, food): Call 211 or search Montana 211 directory. (montana211.org)
- Medicaid/HMK coverage questions: **Public Assistance Helpline (888‑706‑1535); Medicaid/HMK member line (800‑362‑8312). See DPHHS Member Services page. (dphhs.mt.gov)
What this guide adds (filling gaps you’ll see in search results)
- Concrete 2025 income limits in dollars and direct links to apply for coverage.
- Verified crisis, warmline, and regional mental health center numbers (not just “call your local office”).
- Fast “how to pay” steps with realistic timelines and backup plans if you hit roadblocks.
- State‑specific help for postpartum depression/anxiety, tribal programs, veterans, rural moms, and language access.
Sources include DPHHS, ASPE/HHS, HRSA, IHS, VA, and established Montana nonprofits (citations throughout).
If you’re in crisis or close to it
Start here so someone can talk to you now; then use the rest of this guide to set up ongoing care and coverage.
- Call or text 988 anytime. Montana routes 988 calls to three in‑state centers (Help Center–Bozeman, Voices of Hope–Great Falls, Western Montana Mental Health–Missoula) who know local resources and 211. See DPHHS – Montana 988. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- Warm talk, not crisis: **Montana Recovery Warmline (877‑688‑3377) for peer support; hours are posted by Mental Health America of Montana. See MHA of MT – Warmline. (mhaofmt.org)
- Prefer text: Text “MT” to 741‑741 (Crisis Text Line). See State of Montana’s Mental Health Support page. (benefits.mt.gov)
- Mobile crisis teams (examples):
• Missoula Mobile Support Team (MST) is dispatched via 911; admin line 406‑552‑6210. See City of Missoula – MST. (ci.missoula.mt.us)
• Flathead County Crisis Assistance Team works via 911/988 dispatch. See Flathead County – CAT. (flathead.mt.gov) - Billings walk‑in crisis stabilization (24/7): Community Crisis Center, 704 N 30th St, Billings, 406‑259‑8800. See CCC Billings. (crisiscenterbillings.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call 988 again and ask for a supervisor, or ask to be connected to a mobile team, local ER, or law enforcement welfare check if needed. See DPHHS – 988. (dphhs.mt.gov)
Paying for care: Medicaid, Healthy Montana Kids (HMK), Plan First, and postpartum coverage
Most therapy, psychiatry, and many medications can be covered by Montana Medicaid or HMK. Apply online in about 20 minutes, and don’t wait—coverage can be retroactive (see timelines below).
First steps (fast)
- Apply for coverage online at ApplyMT (apply.mt.gov) or through Healthcare.gov. Phone help: 888‑706‑1535 (Public Assistance Helpline). (dphhs.mt.gov)
- If you’re already enrolled and need a provider, use the Medicaid/HMK provider search and Passport tool (member line 800‑362‑8312). See DPHHS Member Services. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- If pregnant or recently postpartum, tell OPA so you get 12‑month postpartum coverage. You can report changes via apply.mt.gov, your local OPA office, or by calling 888‑706‑1535. See DPHHS Member Services announcement. (dphhs.mt.gov)
2025 income guides at a glance
The figures below use the official 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines for the 48 states. “%FPL” thresholds are set by Montana. Always count your children in the household size; for pregnancy Medicaid, the unborn child counts too. See ASPE/HHS – 2025 Poverty Guidelines. (aspe.hhs.gov)
Table 1. Key eligibility thresholds (annual unless noted)
| Program | Who | 2025 limit | Example amounts (annual) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medicaid Expansion (adult 19–64) | Parent/caretaker or adult without Medicare | ≤ 138% FPL | 1 person: 21,597∗∗;2:∗∗21,597**; 2: **29,187; 3: 36,777∗∗;4:∗∗36,777**; 4: **44,367 (≈ 1,800∗∗,∗∗1,800**, **2,432, 3,065∗∗,∗∗3,065**, **3,697 monthly) | ASPE 2025 FPL + MT program rules. (aspe.hhs.gov, dphhs.mt.gov) |
| Pregnancy Medicaid | Pregnant individuals (counts unborn in HH size) | ≤ 157% FPL | 2‑person HH (you+unborn): ≈ 33,206∗∗/yr(≈∗∗33,206**/yr (≈ **2,767/mo); 3‑person HH: ≈ $41,841/yr | DPHHS Plan First page — 157% pregnancy group + ASPE 2025 FPL. (dphhs.mt.gov, aspe.hhs.gov) |
| HMK (CHIP) | Kids up to 19 | Up to 250% FPL per Montana ARM | 2‑person: 52,875∗∗;3:∗∗52,875**; 3: **66,625; 4: $80,375 | ARM 37.79.101 – HMK at ≤250% FPL. (law.cornell.edu) |
| Plan First (family planning) | Women 19–44, not pregnant | Up to 211% FPL | Exact 2025 thresholds: 1: 33,022∗∗;2:∗∗33,022**; 2: **44,627; 3: 56,232∗∗;4:∗∗56,232**; 4: **67,837; 5: 79,442∗∗;6:∗∗79,442**; 6: **91,047; 7: $102,652 | DPHHS Plan First – 2025 Income Thresholds. (dphhs.mt.gov) |
Reality check:
- Adult Medicaid Expansion eligibility is tied to 138% FPL, which updates yearly. The examples above use 2025 FPLs. See ASPE 2025. (aspe.hhs.gov)
- HMK administrative rule lists 250% FPL; practical thresholds can reflect income disregards. If you’re close, apply—DPHHS will run the exact rules. See ARM 37.79.101. (law.cornell.edu)
What’s covered and where to find providers
- Standard Medicaid/HMK benefits include mental health therapy, psychiatry, substance use treatment, and transportation to covered appointments (Medicaid Transport Center 800‑292‑7114). See DPHHS Member Services. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- Use the DPHHS provider search and Passport to choose a primary care provider and get referrals if required. Member line 800‑362‑8312. See DPHHS Member Services. (dphhs.mt.gov)
Timelines (so you can plan)
- Montana must process most Medicaid applications within 45 days (or 90 days if based on disability), per federal rule. If the state needs more info from you, they must document the delay. See 42 CFR 435.912. (law.cornell.edu)
- If you’re in a mental health crisis and uninsured/under‑insured, ask the hospital/clinic about 72‑Hour Presumptive Eligibility (PE) for crisis stabilization—short‑term Medicaid while a full application is processed. See Montana MCA 53‑21‑1402 and DPHHS PE manual. (archive.legmt.gov, medicaidprovider.mt.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call the **Public Assistance Helpline (888‑706‑1535) to check status. If a denial doesn’t look right, ask about your appeal rights (see the 2025 Member Guide) and call the **Mental Health Ombudsman (406‑444‑9669) for help navigating coverage problems. See DPHHS Member Guide 2025 (PDF) and Montana Mental Health Ombudsman. (dphhs.mt.gov, mhombudsman.mt.gov)
Postpartum mental health: fast paths to care
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are common and treatable. Montana has specific lines and programs to get you help quickly.
- 24/7 Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262) (call or text). Free, confidential, English/Spanish with interpreters in 60+ languages. See HRSA. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- 12‑month postpartum Medicaid/HMK coverage is in place in Montana—notify OPA if you’re pregnant or postpartum to ensure your case shows the extension. See DPHHS Member Services. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- PSI Helpline (support and local referrals, not a crisis line): 800‑944‑4773; text “Help” to 800‑944‑4773 (English) or 971‑203‑7773 (Español). See Postpartum Support International. (postpartum.net)
- Montana initiatives:
• MOMS Program (DPHHS) improves maternal care statewide. See Montana MOMS. (dphhs.mt.gov)
• The Meadowlark Initiative® integrates behavioral health into prenatal care in clinics across MT. Ask your OB. See Montana Healthcare Foundation – Meadowlark. (mthf.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call 988 for urgent help, or the Maternal Mental Health Hotline for same‑day support and referrals (1‑833‑852‑6262). If you’re uninsured, ask your clinic for presumptive eligibility for pregnancy Medicaid while your full application is pending. (mchb.hrsa.gov, medicaidprovider.mt.gov)
Where to go locally (regional numbers you can actually call)
Use this table when you need a live person in your part of the state. The numbers below come from the Montana Mental Health Ombudsman (official state site) and program websites.
Table 2. Regional mental health and crisis contacts
| Region | Main contact | Phone | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eastern MT (Miles City, Baker, Glendive, Sidney, Wolf Point, Glasgow, Malta, etc.) | Eastern Montana Community Mental Health Center (admin) | 406‑234‑0234 | Crisis lines by area: Baker/Miles City 800‑597‑6606; Glasgow/Malta/Plentywood/Scobey/Wolf Point 800‑597‑6608; Circle/Glendive/Wibaux 877‑392‑9767; Sidney 877‑392‑9768; Colstrip/Forsyth/Hysham 877‑392‑9771. (mhombudsman.mt.gov) |
| South‑Central (Billings, Hardin, Red Lodge, Columbus, Lewistown, Roundup, etc.) | South Central MT Mental Health Center | 406‑252‑5658 | Toll‑free crisis 800‑266‑7198. Billings Community Crisis Center (walk‑in 24/7) 406‑259‑8800. (mhombudsman.mt.gov, crisiscenterbillings.org) |
| North‑Central & Helena/Great Falls area | Many Rivers (formerly Center for Mental Health) | 406‑761‑2100 | Toll‑free crisis 888‑718‑2100; local numbers by town listed by the Ombudsman (e.g., Helena 406‑443‑7151, Great Falls 406‑761‑2100). (mhombudsman.mt.gov) |
| Western MT (Missoula, Hamilton, Kalispell, Libby, Butte, etc.) | Western Montana Mental Health Center (admin) | 406‑532‑8400 | Crisis coverage via 988; Missoula crisis facility at 1273 Dakota St (406‑532‑8949). See location details. (wmmhc.org) |
If you don’t see your town here, dial 211 or use the 988 counselor’s local referral list. (montana211.org, dphhs.mt.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call the Mental Health Ombudsman (406‑444‑9669) for help navigating services and complaints about access. See Ombudsman – How We Can Help. (mhombudsman.mt.gov)
Low‑cost clinics and sliding‑fee therapy
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) offer integrated primary care and behavioral health on a sliding‑fee scale. Search by ZIP at HRSA Find a Health Center. You will not be turned away for inability to pay. (mtpca.org)
- Montana examples include Alluvion Health (Great Falls), RiverStone Health (Billings), Southwest Montana CHC (Butte/Anaconda/Dillon), Bullhook (Havre), Partnership Health Center (Missoula), Sapphire (Hamilton), One Health (eastern MT), and more; use the HRSA tool to confirm services and hours. (mtpca.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask the clinic if they have behavioral health same‑day/crisis slots, telehealth, or care coordination to outside therapists. If you’re uninsured, ask for help submitting Medicaid presumptive eligibility or a full application while you start short‑term counseling. (medicaidprovider.mt.gov)
Veteran single mothers
- VA Montana Health Care (Fort Harrison + clinics statewide). Same‑day mental health help is available; behavioral health call center 406‑447‑6000. Main VA phone 877‑468‑8387. See VA Montana – Make an Appointment and VA Montana contact page. (va.gov)
- Vet Center (free counseling for eligible veterans/Guard/Reserve and their families): 24/7 line 877‑927‑8387; examples include the Billings Vet Center. See VA – Billings Vet Center. (va.gov)
- Crisis: 988, then press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call the VA Montana patient advocate through the main line (877‑468‑8387) and ask for help navigating to women’s mental health services or community care. (va.gov)
Tribal and Urban Indian resources
- Billings Area Indian Health Service (IHS) oversees MT and WY; main line 406‑247‑7248. Local Service Units include Blackfeet (406‑338‑6100), Fort Belknap (406‑353‑3100), Fort Peck (406‑768‑3491; Wolf Point clinic 406‑653‑1641), Northern Cheyenne (406‑477‑4400), Crow (406‑638‑3500), and Little Shell Health Center (Great Falls 406‑247‑7130). See IHS Billings Area pages for addresses and numbers. (ihs.gov)
- Many Tribal Health Departments also provide behavioral health. Start with your tribal clinic, or call IHS Billings Area for a warm referral. See IHS Billings Area. (ihs.gov)
- For statewide advocacy and coordination, see the Rocky Mountain Tribal Leaders Council (Billings) 406‑252‑2550. (rmtlc.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call 988 and ask for local Native/tribal resource referrals, or contact the IHS Area Office (406‑247‑7248) to locate the correct behavioral health clinic. (ihs.gov)
Domestic and sexual violence survivors
- MCADSV (statewide coalition) can connect you to local advocates. 406‑443‑7794 or 888‑404‑7794. See MCADSV – Contact. (mcadsv.com)
- Montana Department of Justice – Crime Victim Advocates lists local programs and statewide hotlines. See MT DOJ – Crime Victim Advocates. (dojmt.gov)
- National DV Hotline (24/7): 800‑799‑7233. See MT DOJ listing. (dojmt.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Go to a hospital ER or police department, or call 911. Ask the ER to connect you with a local advocate immediately.
Insurance problems (parity, denials, surprise bills)
- If your plan denies mental health care or says “out of network only,” you can file a complaint with the Montana Commissioner of Securities & Insurance (CSI). Consumer hotline 800‑332‑6148 or 406‑444‑2040; online complaint form available. See CSI – Insurance Complaints. (csimt.gov)
- CSI can also help with appeals (internal and external review) for denied claims. See CSI – Online Complaint Form. (csimt.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your plan for the mental health parity analysis for the denied service and send it to CSI with your complaint. Continue necessary care while you appeal when possible.
Special supports for diverse communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: 988 counselors and many community health centers offer affirming care. Ask FQHCs (via HRSA’s locator) about LGBTQ+‑trained therapists. See HRSA – Find a Health Center. (mtpca.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or raising disabled children: Call 211 for local respite and counseling programs; Medicaid may cover targeted case management and peer support. See Montana 211. (montana211.org)
- Veteran single mothers: See VA resources above (same‑day help; Vet Center 877‑927‑8387). (va.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: You may still qualify for coverage or certain services—apply and let DPHHS determine eligibility. Use language assistance through DPHHS and 988. See DPHHS Member Services. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- Tribal citizens: Use IHS and Tribal Health first for coordination and Purchased/Referred Care; 988 is available statewide, and most regions have tribal DV services (check with Tribal Health or MCADSV). See IHS Billings Area. (ihs.gov)
- Rural moms with limited access: Ask clinics about telehealth visits (Medicaid covers many tele‑mental health services) and Medicaid transportation (800‑292‑7114). Use 988 for local referrals. See DPHHS Member Services. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- Single fathers: Most programs here are gender‑neutral. If you’re the custodial parent, the same Medicaid/HMK rules apply.
- Language access: 988 offers Spanish and interpreter services; the Maternal Mental Health Hotline supports 60+ languages. See HRSA Maternal Mental Health Hotline. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
Quick reference cheat sheet
Table 3. One‑look “who to call”
| Need | Who | How to reach | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immediate mental health crisis | 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline | Call/text 988 (24/7) | DPHHS – Montana 988. (dphhs.mt.gov) |
| Warm, non‑crisis support | Montana Recovery Warmline | 877‑688‑3377, see hours | MHA of Montana – Warmline. (mhaofmt.org) |
| Maternal mental health (24/7) | HRSA Maternal Mental Health Hotline | 1‑833‑852‑6262 (call/text) | HRSA. (mchb.hrsa.gov) |
| Apply for Medicaid/HMK | DPHHS | apply.mt.gov; help 888‑706‑1535 | DPHHS – Apply. (dphhs.mt.gov) |
| Find a Medicaid provider | DPHHS Member Services | 800‑362‑8312 | DPHHS Member Services. (dphhs.mt.gov) |
| Regional crisis stabilization | Community Crisis Center (Billings) | 406‑259‑8800 (24/7) | CCC Billings. (crisiscenterbillings.org) |
| Insurance complaint/appeal | Montana CSI | 800‑332‑6148 | CSI – Insurance Complaints. (csimt.gov) |
| Ombudsman for access issues | MH Ombudsman (Governor’s Office) | 406‑444‑9669 | How We Can Help. (mhombudsman.mt.gov) |
Find care near you: practical paths
A) Use your coverage or get temporary coverage
- Apply online at apply.mt.gov, upload paystubs or self‑attest if needed, and ask staff about presumptive eligibility if you need care before approval. See DPHHS – Apply and Presumptive Eligibility. (dphhs.mt.gov, medicaidprovider.mt.gov)
B) Book with a sliding‑fee clinic
- Search HRSA Find a Health Center for integrated primary care + behavioral health. Ask for same‑day or telehealth. (mtpca.org)
C) Join free peer groups
- NAMI Montana hosts free, confidential support groups statewide. Main line 406‑443‑7871; use the affiliate directory to find meetings in your county. See NAMI Montana and NAMI National MT page. (namimt.org, nami.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call the Ombudsman or CSI (for insurance denials) listed above. Consider the Community Crisis Center if you’re in Yellowstone County and need stabilization while other care is arranged. (crisiscenterbillings.org)
“How much will I pay?” — realistic costs
- Medicaid/HMK: Copays are limited; many behavioral health services have no copay. Confirm benefits with 800‑362‑8312. See DPHHS Member Services. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- Sliding‑fee clinics: Fees are based on income and family size; some visits can be 0–0–35 after discounts, but each clinic sets its own scale—ask before scheduling. Use HRSA search and call clinics to confirm. (mtpca.org)
Help for substance use (with or without kids)
- Start with 988 for a warm handoff or search FindTreatment.gov (SAMHSA). Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) and licensed programs must accept you regardless of ability to pay. See SAMHSA – CCBHCs. (samhsa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your local mental health center about intensive outpatient (IOP), residential options, or medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD). Medicaid covers these services under current Montana policy manuals. See DPHHS BHDD Medicaid Services Manual, eff. Mar 8, 2025. (dphhs.mt.gov)
Application checklist (so you submit once and avoid delays)
- IDs and Social Security numbers for those applying (if you have them).
- Proof of Montana residency (lease, utility bill, mail with your name).
- Income proof for the last 30 days (paystubs, self‑employment ledger, unemployment letter). If you can’t get proof fast, apply and upload later.
- Pregnancy verification (note that pregnancy can be self‑attested for presumptive eligibility; clinics can help). (medicaidprovider.mt.gov)
- Any current insurance info (Medicare, employer plan, CHIP).
- Submit at apply.mt.gov, then answer any DPHHS follow‑up quickly. Standard processing is ≤45 days (≤90 days if based on disability). (law.cornell.edu)
Common mistakes to avoid (and how to fix them)
- Waiting to apply until you have every document. Apply now; upload missing pieces when you can. Presumptive eligibility can bridge the gap. (medicaidprovider.mt.gov)
- Not reporting pregnancy/postpartum. You could miss the 12‑month postpartum extension; report changes via apply.mt.gov or 888‑706‑1535. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- Skipping the Passport referral. Some specialists require it; call 800‑362‑8312 for help. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- Ignoring a confusing denial. Appeal deadlines are short. Ask the Ombudsman (406‑444‑9669) or CSI (800‑332‑6148) for help. (mhombudsman.mt.gov, csimt.gov)
- Only calling one number. If you can’t get through, try 988, 211, your regional center (table above), or the Community Crisis Center Billings (406‑259‑8800) if nearby. (crisiscenterbillings.org)
Real‑world examples
- “I need therapy but can’t pay”: You apply at apply.mt.gov tonight, call your nearest FQHC tomorrow from HRSA’s locator, and ask for a sliding‑fee mental health intake this week. You request presumptive eligibility while your application is pending so the visit can be covered. (medicaidprovider.mt.gov, mtpca.org)
- “I’m 2 weeks postpartum and can’t stop crying”: You text 1‑833‑852‑6262, then call your OB to ask about Meadowlark‑integrated counseling. You also report your status to OPA for 12‑month postpartum coverage. (mchb.hrsa.gov, dphhs.mt.gov, mthf.org)
- “Panic is back and I’m in a small town”: You call 988, ask for local options, and get routed to your region’s mobile team or mental health center. You book tele‑mental health through a nearby FQHC and arrange Medicaid transportation (800‑292‑7114) for any in‑person visits. (dphhs.mt.gov)
Useful tables you can screenshot
Table 4. 2025 FPL reference (annual, 48 states)
| HH size | 100% FPL | 138% FPL (adult Medicaid) | 157% FPL (pregnancy example) | 250% FPL (HMK rule) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $15,650 | $21,597 | — | $39,125 |
| 2 | $21,150 | $29,187 | $33,206 | $52,875 |
| 3 | $26,650 | $36,777 | $41,841 | $66,625 |
| 4 | $32,150 | $44,367 | $50,476 | $80,375 |
Source: ASPE/HHS 2025 Poverty Guidelines; HMK threshold per ARM 37.79.101. (aspe.hhs.gov, law.cornell.edu)
Notes: Pregnancy Medicaid counts the unborn child in the household size. If you’re close to a limit, apply—Montana will calculate the exact rules.
Table 5. Fast paths to help by situation
| Situation | First call | Backup (Plan B) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suicidal thoughts or can’t keep yourself safe | 988 | 911 | 988 routes to MT centers with local referrals. (dphhs.mt.gov) |
| Overwhelmed but not in danger | 877‑688‑3377 (Warmline) | Text “MT” to 741‑741 | Peer support; text line is 24/7. (mhaofmt.org, benefits.mt.gov) |
| Need therapy and low income | Apply at apply.mt.gov | HRSA clinic finder for sliding‑fee | Ask about presumptive eligibility. (dphhs.mt.gov, mtpca.org) |
| Postpartum depression/anxiety | 1‑833‑852‑6262 (24/7) | PSI 800‑944‑4773 | Also report postpartum to OPA for 12‑month coverage. (mchb.hrsa.gov, postpartum.net, dphhs.mt.gov) |
| Insurance denies mental health care | CSI 800‑332‑6148 | Ombudsman 406‑444‑9669 | File complaint/appeal. (csimt.gov, mhombudsman.mt.gov) |
Frequently asked questions (Montana‑specific)
- How fast will my Medicaid application be processed?
Most are decided within 45 days (or 90 days for disability‑based cases). See 42 CFR 435.912. (law.cornell.edu) - Can I get coverage while I’m in a mental health crisis?
Ask the hospital/clinic about 72‑Hour Presumptive Eligibility for crisis stabilization. (archive.legmt.gov) - Do I get 12 months of coverage after giving birth?
Yes, Montana provides 12‑month postpartum coverage for Medicaid/HMK once your pregnancy is on file—report it to OPA. (dphhs.mt.gov) - Is there a free maternal mental health line?
Yes: 1‑833‑852‑6262 (24/7 text/call). (mchb.hrsa.gov) - I live far from town. Can I do therapy by video?
Many clinics offer tele‑mental health; Medicaid covers many telehealth services. Ask your clinic; use HRSA’s locator to find options. (mtpca.org) - How do I find a Medicaid therapist?
Call 800‑362‑8312 for DPHHS Member Services and use the provider search/Passport tool. (dphhs.mt.gov) - Where can I walk in for help in Billings?
Community Crisis Center, 406‑259‑8800, 704 N 30th St (open‑door, 24/7). (crisiscenterbillings.org) - Who helps when I hit a wall getting services?
Mental Health Ombudsman 406‑444‑9669 can assist with access issues. (mhombudsman.mt.gov) - I’m Native and want care on my reservation. Who do I call?
Your IHS Service Unit (e.g., Blackfeet 406‑338‑6100, Fort Belknap 406‑353‑3100, Fort Peck 406‑768‑3491, Northern Cheyenne 406‑477‑4400). See full IHS Billings Area list. (ihs.gov) - Who do I contact about an unfair insurance denial?
CSI consumer line 800‑332‑6148 or file online. (csimt.gov)
What to expect when you apply (realistic timeline)
- Day 0: Submit at apply.mt.gov. If you need care now, ask a hospital/clinic about presumptive eligibility for temporary coverage. (medicaidprovider.mt.gov)
- Days 1–15: Watch mail or your portal for any “we need more info” letters; upload quickly to avoid delays.
- By Day 45 (most cases): You should have a decision. If not, call 888‑706‑1535 and mention 42 CFR 435.912 timeliness standards. (law.cornell.edu)
- If approved: Call 800‑362‑8312 to pick a Passport provider and schedule the first visit.
- If denied: Appeal by the stated deadline and call the Ombudsman (406‑444‑9669) or CSI (800‑332‑6148) if the issue is insurance‑related. (mhombudsman.mt.gov, csimt.gov)
Extra resources by area (examples)
- Missoula: Mobile Support Team admin 406‑552‑6210; Western MT Mental Health main 406‑532‑9700; FQHC: Partnership Health Center (use HRSA finder). (ci.missoula.mt.us, wmmhc.org, mtpca.org)
- Great Falls: Many Rivers 406‑761‑2100; FQHC: Alluvion Health (find via HRSA). (mhombudsman.mt.gov, mtpca.org)
- Helena: Many Rivers (Helena) 406‑443‑7151; VA Montana main 877‑468‑8387. (mhombudsman.mt.gov, va.gov)
- Billings/Yellowstone County: Community Crisis Center 406‑259‑8800; South Central MT MHC 406‑252‑5658; FQHC: RiverStone Health (HRSA). (crisiscenterbillings.org, bafvtf.org, mtpca.org)
- Flathead/Kalispell: Western MT Mental Health (Kalispell) 406‑257‑1336; FQHC options via HRSA. (wmmhc.org)
- Eastern MT: EMCMHC Miles City 406‑234‑1687 (clinic); crisis lines by county in Table 2. (americanaddictionfoundation.com, mhombudsman.mt.gov)
What to do if nothing above works
- Call 988 again and ask for a supervisor and a local referral. Request a mobile crisis response if available in your county. See DPHHS – 988. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- Call the Mental Health Ombudsman (406‑444‑9669) to troubleshoot access issues. (mhombudsman.mt.gov)
- For coverage delays beyond 45 days, reference 42 CFR 435.912 and request escalation. (law.cornell.edu)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
- This guide uses official sources from the Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services (DPHHS), ASPE/HHS, HRSA, IHS, VA, and established Montana nonprofits.
- We follow our published Editorial Standards with primary sources, link checks, and fast corrections. This page is not affiliated with any government agency and is not a substitute for agency guidance.
- Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026. If you spot an error, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll review within 48 hours.
Source: ASingleMother.org Editorial Policy. (dphhs.mt.gov)
Disclaimer
- Program rules, dollar limits, phone numbers, and clinic hours can change. Always confirm details with the linked agency or clinic before you spend money or travel.
- Health and mental health content here is for general guidance only. For medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, contact a licensed clinician. If you are in danger, call 911.
- We protect this site from spam and abuse; do not send personal medical details via email or forms.
References (selection)
- HHS/ASPE 2025 Poverty Guidelines (issued Jan 2025). (aspe.hhs.gov)
- DPHHS Member Services and 2025 Member Guide; OPA helpline and transport numbers. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- DPHHS – Apply for Health Coverage and ApplyMT portal. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- DPHHS – Montana 988. (dphhs.mt.gov)
- MHA of Montana – Recovery Warmline. (mhaofmt.org)
- State of Montana – Mental Health Support (Crisis Text Line “MT” to 741‑741). (benefits.mt.gov)
- ARM 37.79.101 (HMK ≤250% FPL). (law.cornell.edu)
- DPHHS Plan First (211% FPL thresholds; pregnancy group at 157% FPL; 2025 dollar amounts). (dphhs.mt.gov)
- 42 CFR 435.912 (45/90 day processing standards). (law.cornell.edu)
- Montana Mental Health Ombudsman (regional crisis numbers). (mhombudsman.mt.gov)
- Community Crisis Center, Billings (24/7, 406‑259‑8800). (crisiscenterbillings.org)
- HRSA – Find a Health Center (sliding‑fee clinics). (mtpca.org)
- IHS Billings Area contact list (Service Units and phones). (ihs.gov)
- VA Montana Health Care; Vet Center (877‑927‑8387). (va.gov)
- NAMI Montana (support groups, 406‑443‑7871). (namimt.org)
Stay safe. Keep this page handy, and don’t hesitate to use the numbers in the Quick Help box at the top.
🏛️More Montana Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Montana
- 📋 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
