Texas Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff, Action‑First Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, step‑by‑step hub for single moms in Texas who need mental health help now, plus clear paths to affordable care for the long run. All figures and rules come from official Texas and federal sources, verified for August–September 2025.

Quick Help Box (start here)

• Call 988 now if you’re in a mental health crisis. It’s free, 24/7, and connects you to trained counselors in Texas. You’ll also get routed to your local crisis team. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline info via Texas HHS crisis page. (hhs.texas.gov)
• If you had a baby within the last 12 months and were on Medicaid or CHIP during pregnancy, you should have 12 months of full postpartum coverage automatically through Texas Medicaid/CHIP. If it didn’t update, call 2‑1‑1 (Option 2) or check YourTexasBenefits. Effective date: March 1, 2024. Texas Governor/HHSC announcement; TMHP guidance; provider notice. (gov.texas.gov, tmhp.com)
• Find your county’s public mental health clinic (LMHA/LBHA) and 24/7 crisis line: use Texas HHS’s tool “Find Your Local Mental Health or Behavioral Health Authority.” Official directory and crisis numbers. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Need therapy or psychiatry on a sliding fee? Search for a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) near you. Many FQHCs offer behavioral health and won’t turn you away for inability to pay. Use HRSA’s “Find a Health Center.” About FQHCs; locator, Find a Health Center. (dshs.texas.gov, data.hrsa.gov)
• Pregnancy and postpartum mental health support (not for crises): Call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262), 24/7, free, English/Spanish. HRSA Hotline FAQ. (mchb.hrsa.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Mental health crisis lines (always open): 988 and your local LMHA crisis number (see table below). Texas HHS crisis services. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Postpartum coverage: Texas Medicaid/CHIP now covers moms for 12 months after pregnancy (started March 1, 2024). You don’t reapply; coverage is auto‑extended unless you move out of Texas, withdraw, or there’s fraud. State announcement; TMHP details; TMHP HB 12 page. (gov.texas.gov, tmhp.com)
• How to apply for health coverage: Apply online at YourTexasBenefits or call 2‑1‑1 (Option 2). Form H1205 is the application for health coverage. Pregnancy cases are processed within 15 business days. HHSC application info (H1205); processing timelines, [Texas Works Handbook D‑230/A‑140]. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Healthy Texas Women (HTW) & HTW Plus: Women up to 204.2% FPL (income limit) may qualify; HTW Plus adds postpartum mental health and substance use services for eligible women. Texas Works Handbook W‑110/W‑111 (HTW & HTW+). (hhs.texas.gov)
• Substance use during/after pregnancy: call your regional OSAR line for screening and referral, available 24/7 statewide (see OSAR table). HHSC OSAR page. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Domestic violence support (free): HHSC‑funded family violence centers and the National DV Hotline: 800‑799‑SAFE (7233), text START to 88788. HHSC Family Violence Program; resources map, resources directory. (hhs.texas.gov)

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Why this matters in Texas (reality check)

• Texas extended Medicaid/CHIP postpartum coverage to a full year starting March 1, 2024—a major shift that puts full mental health care (therapy, psychiatric visits, meds) within reach for many new mothers who were on Medicaid/CHIP during pregnancy. [Governor/HHSC press releases; TMHP provider notice]. (gov.texas.gov, tmhp.com)
• Mental health conditions were one of the six leading causes of pregnancy‑related deaths in Texas for 2019–2020; 85% of mental‑health‑related deaths occurred between 43 days and one year postpartum, meaning the months after you leave the hospital are high‑risk and exactly when the new coverage helps most. [DSHS TexasAIM summary of MMMRC findings]. (dshs.texas.gov)
• If you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or substance use—especially during pregnancy or after birth—don’t wait. The fastest doorway to care is calling 988 and your local LMHA (county mental health center), plus using your Medicaid/CHIP, HTW/HTW Plus, or a sliding‑fee clinic (FQHC). [HHSC crisis/LMHA pages; FQHC overview]. (hhs.texas.gov, dshs.texas.gov)

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Fast Hotlines (save these)

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Get Covered Care First (so bills don’t block you)

Start with the coverage you can get the fastest. Here’s what Texas offers with verified 2025 figures.

A) Medicaid for Pregnant Women (TP 40) and 12‑Month Postpartum Extension

Action steps (do this now)

• Apply at YourTexasBenefits or call 2‑1‑1 (Option 2). Use form H1205 if needed (online or paper). Pregnancy Medicaid decisions must be made within 15 business days; ask for “expedited TP 40.” [HHSC CHIP‑Perinatal FAQ; Texas Works D‑230; A‑140]. (hhs.texas.gov)
• If you had Medicaid/CHIP during pregnancy, you should be auto‑enrolled for 12 months of postpartum coverage. If not showing, call 2‑1‑1 (Option 2) to fix it. [HHSC/Governor press releases; TMHP]. (gov.texas.gov, hhs.texas.gov, tmhp.com)

What’s covered

• Full Medicaid medical and mental health benefits during pregnancy and through 12 months postpartum: therapy, psychiatric care, medications, hospital services, labs, etc. [TMHP HB 12 postpartum extension]. (tmhp.com)

Eligibility (2025 monthly income guidelines from HHSC)

• If your household’s pre‑tax monthly income is at or below the amounts below, you “might get Medicaid.” These are straight from HHSC for 2025:

Source: HHSC “Medicaid for Pregnant Women & CHIP Perinatal”. (hhs.texas.gov)

Timing you can expect

• Pregnancy Medicaid: decision within 15 business days; postpartum extension is automatic from March 1, 2024 onward. [Texas Works D‑230; Governor/HHSC]. (hhs.texas.gov, gov.texas.gov)

Required docs (bring/upload)

• Photo ID (or records to verify identity), proof of Texas residency, proof of pregnancy (your statement is acceptable for start month/EDD if not otherwise available), proof of income (last 60 days paystubs, tax return, or employer letter), SSNs if you have them. [Texas Works A‑820; CHIP‑Perinatal FAQ]. (hhs.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call 2‑1‑1 (Option 2) and ask for a supervisor; ask about “expedited TP 40.” Use your YourTexasBenefits account to message/upload missing items. If still stuck, call the HHSC Ombudsman: 877‑787‑8999. [HHSC numbers list]. (hhs.texas.gov)

B) CHIP Perinatal (for those who can’t get Pregnancy Medicaid)

Who it fits

• If you don’t qualify for Medicaid due to immigration status or your income is slightly higher than Medicaid’s limit, CHIP Perinatal covers you during pregnancy and the baby after birth (plus two postpartum visits for mom). [HHSC program page]. (hhs.texas.gov)

Income guidelines (2025 monthly, HHSC)

Source: HHSC “Medicaid for Pregnant Women & CHIP Perinatal”. (hhs.texas.gov)

Processing timeline

• HHSC must process CHIP Perinatal within 15 business days; you’ll have 15 calendar days to pick a health plan after approval. Apply online (H1205). [HHSC CHIP‑Perinatal FAQ]. (hhs.texas.gov)

Reality check

• CHIP Perinatal does NOT get the 12‑month postpartum extension; it still provides only two postpartum visits for mom. The newborn transitions to Medicaid/CHIP based on income. [TMHP HB 12 note; HHSC FAQ]. (tmhp.com, hhs.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask the hospital social worker to help file Emergency Medicaid (H3038/H3038‑P) for labor/delivery costs if you’re immigration‑ineligible for full Medicaid. [Texas Works D‑231]. (hhs.texas.gov)

C) Healthy Texas Women (HTW) + HTW Plus (postpartum add‑ons)

What it is

• HTW covers family planning and related women’s health. If your pregnancy ended within the last 12 months and you enroll in HTW, HTW Plus adds limited postpartum care for mental health, cardiovascular, and substance use needs. Income limit: ≤ 204.2% FPL; ages 15–44. [Texas Works W‑110/W‑111]. (hhs.texas.gov)

Estimated 2025 monthly income cutoffs for HTW (calculated from 2025 FPL; 204.2% of monthly FPL)

Calculation note: 2025 FPL published Jan 16, 2025 (HHS/Medicaid CIB). We multiplied monthly FPL by 2.042 and rounded to nearest dollar. Always verify current limits when applying. [2025 FPL bulletin]. (medicaid.gov)

Reality check

• If you had Medicaid/CHIP in pregnancy, Texas now moves you to full Medicaid/CHIP for the rest of your 12‑month postpartum period—stronger coverage than HTW Plus. But HTW/HTW Plus is a safety net for those who don’t qualify for Medicaid. [Governor/HHSC; TMHP]. (gov.texas.gov, tmhp.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Use a sliding‑fee FQHC for mental health and primary care while you appeal or reapply. [DSHS FQHC; HRSA locator]. (dshs.texas.gov, data.hrsa.gov)

D) Children’s Medicaid and CHIP (for your kids)

Why to apply

• Your child may qualify even if you don’t. Medicaid is free; CHIP has small copays.

2025 monthly income guides (HHSC)

Children’s Medicaid (≤):

CHIP (≤):

Costs: CHIP enrollment fee ≤ $50/year\ast \ast perfamily;copaystypically\ast \ast$3–$35 depending on income. Apply at YourTexasBenefits. [HHSC Children’s Medicaid & CHIP page]. (hhs.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call 2‑1‑1 (Option 2) and ask for help checking missing documents. If denied, ask how to appeal. [HHSC help page]. (hhs.texas.gov)

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Where to Get Care Near You (public clinics and crisis lines)

Your county is served by a Local Mental Health Authority (LMHA) or Local Behavioral Health Authority (LBHA). They run 24/7 crisis lines, Mobile Crisis Outreach Teams, intake, outpatient care, and referrals.

Use this tool to find yours: Find Your Local Mental Health or Behavioral Health Authority. (hhs.texas.gov)

Major Metro Quick Contacts (you can call directly)

Notes: The full statewide list of LMHAs/LBHAs and crisis numbers is on Texas HHS, including rural counties. If your county isn’t above, use the HHS link to find the correct number. (hhs.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If you can’t reach your LMHA or wait times are long, call 988 and ask to be connected to another nearby crisis team, or use an FQHC for interim therapy/medication management on a sliding fee. [HHSC crisis; DSHS FQHC]. (hhs.texas.gov, dshs.texas.gov)

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Substance Use During/After Pregnancy (confidential help)

If alcohol or drug use is affecting your mental health or parenting, Texas funds programs designed for pregnant and parenting women. You won’t be judged—use these.

• OSAR (Outreach, Screening, Assessment, and Referral). Call your regional OSAR number 24/7 (below). They screen you and connect you to treatment, including specialized women’s programs. HHSC OSAR. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Pregnant & Parenting Intervention (PPI). Case management and support to reduce substance‑exposed pregnancies and improve outcomes. HHSC PPI page. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Women with Children Residential Treatment. Some centers allow your children to stay with you during treatment; financial help may be available based on income/resources. HHSC Women with Children Residential. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Maternal Opioid Misuse (MOM) Model (Houston area): specialized care for Medicaid‑covered pregnant women with opioid use disorder (Ben Taub/Baylor/Santa Maria Hostel). HHSC MOM Model. (hhs.texas.gov)

OSAR: Quick Numbers by Region (24/7)

Full details and county lists are on the HHSC OSAR page. (hhs.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call 988 if you feel unsafe or need urgent de‑escalation. If a program can’t take you quickly, ask OSAR for the next‑soonest placement anywhere within your region and request transportation assistance if needed (some programs can help). [HHSC crisis; OSAR]. (hhs.texas.gov)

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Domestic Violence, Trauma, and Legal Safety

Mental health recovery is harder when you’re not safe. Texas funds a network of free shelters and non‑residential centers—no income limit.

• Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800‑799‑SAFE (7233), text 88788, or use chat to connect to Texas providers. HHSC Family Violence Program. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Find a center near you (HHSC list includes city and hotline numbers). Examples: SAFE Alliance (Austin) 512‑267‑SAFE (7233), Houston Area Women’s Center 713‑528‑2121, SafeHaven of Tarrant County 877‑701‑7233—and many more statewide. HHSC resource directory. (hhs.texas.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If you need confidential counseling without shelter, call your LMHA or an FQHC and ask for trauma‑informed therapy on a sliding fee. If you’re a crime victim, Texas may pay counseling bills through Crime Victims’ Compensation (CVC), up to $50,000 total per claim with up to 60 counseling sessions (exceptions possible). [Texas OAG–CVC overview; mental health costs; compensation limits]. (texasattorneygeneral.gov, texasattorneygeneral.gov)

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Real‑World Examples

• You delivered 5 months ago on Medicaid. You feel anxious and can’t sleep. You still have full Medicaid until 12 months postpartum—book therapy and psychiatry through your plan network, no new application needed. If the pharmacy says you’re inactive, call 2‑1‑1 (Option 2) and reference the March 1, 2024 postpartum extension. [HHSC/Governor; TMHP]. (gov.texas.gov, tmhp.com)
• You’re pregnant, uninsured, and your income is around $3,300/month\ast \ast forafamilyof2.That’swithinMedicaidforPregnantWomen(\le \ast \ast$3,373), so apply for TP 40 now and ask for expedited processing (15 business days). [HHSC TP40 income table; D‑230/A‑140]. (hhs.texas.gov)
• You’re not eligible for Medicaid due to immigration status. Apply for CHIP Perinatal, which covers prenatal care, labor/delivery (with Emergency Medicaid forms), and two postpartum visits. [HHSC CHIP‑Perinatal FAQ]. (hhs.texas.gov)

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Tables You Can Use Today

Table: Coverage Pathways for Moms in Texas (2025)

Sources: HHSC program pages and handbooks; 2025 FPL bulletin. (hhs.texas.gov, medicaid.gov)

Table: Children’s Coverage (2025)

Source: HHSC Children’s Medicaid & CHIP. (hhs.texas.gov)

Table: 24/7 Crisis & Support (save/print)

Sources: HHSC; HRSA. (hhs.texas.gov, mchb.hrsa.gov)

Table: OSAR Quick Numbers by Region

(See “Substance Use During/After Pregnancy” section above for details and eligibility.)

Source: HHSC OSAR. (hhs.texas.gov)

Table: Key Application Timelines & Forms

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Nonprofits and Sliding‑Fee Clinics (fast access)

• FQHCs (community health centers): Medical + behavioral health, sliding fees, cannot deny service for inability to pay. Use HRSA’s locator. DSHS on FQHCs; HRSA locator, Find a Health Center. (dshs.texas.gov, data.hrsa.gov)
• NAMI Texas: free peer support groups (for you or your teen), education classes, and local affiliates statewide. Contact NAMI Texas resource line 512‑693‑2000 (Mon–Fri) and find your local affiliate by county. NAMI Texas contact; affiliates list, affiliate directory. (namitexas.org)
• Postpartum support: National Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA; local groups like Nurtured TX (Connect to Care therapy program in Travis/Hays/Bastrop/Williamson; statewide virtual groups). HRSA Hotline FAQ; Nurtured TX, nurturedtx.org. (mchb.hrsa.gov, nurturedtx.org)
• LGBTQ+ affirming counseling (Houston): The Montrose Center—main 713‑529‑0037; 24‑hour LGBTQ Switchboard 713‑529‑3211. Montrose Center contacts/services, anti‑violence/switchboard. (montrosecenter.org)
• Austin: SAFE Alliance offers free trauma counseling; 24/7 SAFEline 512‑267‑SAFE (7233) or text 737‑888‑7233. SAFE counseling and SAFEline, Get Help. (safeaustin.org)
• Catholic Charities (Greater Houston): counseling intake (713‑874‑6590); main line 713‑526‑4611. Sliding fees available. Catholic Charities contacts, counseling program. (catholiccharities.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Use 2‑1‑1 (Option 1) to get a list of nearby counseling agencies with sliding fees and bilingual services; ask your LMHA for a “non‑priority intake” and to be placed on a call‑back list if sooner openings appear. HHSC 2‑1‑1 info. (hhs.texas.gov)

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Diverse Communities: Tailored Paths

• LGBTQ+ single mothers
  • The Montrose Center (Houston) offers affirming counseling and a 24/7 LGBTQ Switchboard 713‑529‑3211; services are open to all. Montrose Center. (montrosecenter.org)
  • Statewide: your LMHA must serve everyone regardless of identity; ask for trauma‑informed, LGBTQ‑affirming clinicians when scheduling. HHSC LMHA directory. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or caring for a child with disabilities
  • Your LMHA provides mental health services and referrals. For your child, check Children’s Medicaid/CHIP and ask for behavioral health benefits; for ages 0–3, ask your pediatrician about Early Childhood Intervention (ECI). Use 2‑1‑1 (Option 1) to locate ECI and disability supports near you. [HHSC helpful numbers]. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Veteran single mothers
  • LMHAs and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) must serve veterans and families; ask about veteran‑specific counseling groups. HHSC CCBHCs. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms
  • Eligibility for programs varies. Even if you’re not eligible for full Medicaid, you can often get CHIP Perinatal and Emergency Medicaid for delivery costs. Nonprofits (Catholic Charities, FQHCs) offer counseling regardless of status, often on sliding fees. [HHSC CHIP‑Perinatal FAQ; DSHS FQHC facts; Catholic Charities contacts]. (hhs.texas.gov, dshs.texas.gov, catholiccharities.org)
• Tribal‑specific resources
  • The Ysleta del Sur Pueblo Behavioral Health Division (“Sacred Connections”) provides mental health, social services, and a 24‑hour hotline: 915‑479‑2591 for tribal members/families in El Paso County. YDSP Behavioral Health. (ysletadelsurpueblo.org)
• Rural single moms with limited access
  • Use 988 (can dispatch mobile teams), your LMHA’s Mobile Crisis Outreach Team, telehealth with FQHCs, and OSAR phone screening (tele‑intakes are common). [HHSC crisis; OSAR; FQHC locator]. (hhs.texas.gov, data.hrsa.gov)
• Single fathers raising children (yes, you’re welcome here)
  • All programs above serve single fathers as well—LMHAs, FQHCs, OSAR, NAMI, and domestic violence services. [HHSC crisis/LMHA; DSHS FQHC]. (hhs.texas.gov, dshs.texas.gov)
• Language access
  • 2‑1‑1, 988, and the Maternal Mental Health Hotline provide Spanish and interpreter services; LMHAs and FQHCs can arrange interpreters. [HRSA Hotline multilingual support; HHSC 2‑1‑1]. (mchb.hrsa.gov, hhs.texas.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting for things to “settle” after birth. The highest risk window for maternal mental health complications is after you go home; coverage now lasts 12 months postpartum. Get help early. [DSHS TexasAIM; HHSC/TMHP postpartum extension]. (dshs.texas.gov, tmhp.com)
• Applying only for yourself and not for your child. Kids often qualify even when parents don’t. Apply for Children’s Medicaid/CHIP at the same time. HHSC Children’s Medicaid & CHIP. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Missing the 15‑day follow‑up ask for pregnancy Medicaid. If HHSC requests verification and you miss the timeframe, your case can be denied; you can ask to reopen within allowed windows. Watch your messages in YourTexasBenefits. [Texas Works A‑820/D‑230]. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Not using OSAR when substance use is part of the picture. Pregnancy and postpartum programs exist—call your OSAR line for fast placement. HHSC OSAR. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Skipping domestic violence services because “it’s not that bad.” Counseling, legal advocacy, and safety planning are free and confidential statewide. HHSC Family Violence Program. (hhs.texas.gov)

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Application Checklist (grab before you apply)

• Photo ID (if you have one), Texas address proof (lease/utility), and SSNs (if available). [Texas Works A‑820]. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Proof of pregnancy (your statement can be acceptable for start month/EDD if other proof not available). [Texas Works A‑820]. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Proof of income for last 60 days: paystubs, tax return, self‑employment records, or employer letter. [HHSC CHIP‑Perinatal FAQ]. (hhs.texas.gov)
• If applying for CHIP Perinatal and not eligible for full Medicaid due to immigration status: ask the hospital to complete H3038/H3038‑P for Emergency Medicaid to cover delivery. [Texas Works D‑231]. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Create a YourTexasBenefits account (web or app) to upload documents and read HHSC messages quickly. Official help line: 2‑1‑1 (Option 2). [HHSC help page, C‑1460]. (hhs.texas.gov)

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How to Use Your Coverage for Mental Health

• If you’re on Medicaid/CHIP: call the number on your plan card and ask for a mental health intake (therapy and/or psychiatry). The postpartum extension means full coverage through 12 months after pregnancy. [TMHP HB 12]. (tmhp.com)
• If you’re on HTW/HTW Plus: ask about postpartum mental health and substance use services included in HTW Plus. If benefits seem limited, add an FQHC for longer‑term therapy. [Texas Works W‑110/HTW+]. (hhs.texas.gov)
• No coverage or waiting on approval: schedule with an FQHC for sliding‑fee therapy/primary care; ask your LMHA if they have open access/urgent clinics. [DSHS FQHC; HHSC LMHA directory]. (dshs.texas.gov, hhs.texas.gov)
• For breastfeeding help (often tied to postpartum mood): Texas Lactation Support Hotline 1‑855‑550‑6667 (24/7). [DSHS HTMB coalitions page]. (dshs.texas.gov)
• If you’re a crime victim: request Crime Victims’ Compensation for counseling costs (up to $50,000 total; typically up to 60 sessions for mental health, exceptions possible). [Texas OAG CVC]. (texasattorneygeneral.gov, texasattorneygeneral.gov)

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What to Do If You’re Told “We’re Full” or “Long Waitlist”

• Ask to be seen by the Mobile Crisis team today if you feel unsafe, or request a brief bridge medication visit while you wait. [HHSC crisis services]. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Call an FQHC and ask for first available behavioral health appointment (many offer same‑week telehealth). Use HRSA’s locator. HRSA locator. (data.hrsa.gov)
• Ask OSAR for a different program with sooner openings if substance use is part of the picture. HHSC OSAR. (hhs.texas.gov)

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10 Texas‑Specific FAQs

• Does Texas really give me a full year of postpartum coverage now?
  Yes. If you had Medicaid or CHIP while pregnant, Texas automatically gives 12 months postpartum coverage starting March 1, 2024 (unless you move out of Texas, withdraw, or there’s fraud). You don’t need a new application. [Governor/HHSC; TMHP]. (gov.texas.gov, tmhp.com)
• My Medicaid shows inactive after delivery. What do I do?
  Call 2‑1‑1 (Option 2) and reference the postpartum extension; check your YourTexasBenefits messages. Coverage may need reinstatement for the remainder of the 12‑month period. [TMHP HB 12 page]. (tmhp.com)
• How fast can pregnancy Medicaid be approved?
  HHSC must decide within 15 business days for TP 40. Ask for expedited processing. [Texas Works D‑230/A‑140]. (hhs.texas.gov)
• What if I don’t qualify for Medicaid due to immigration status?
  Apply for CHIP Perinatal. It covers prenatal care and two postpartum visits; Emergency Medicaid can cover delivery with the H3038 form. [HHSC CHIP‑Perinatal FAQ]. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Where can I get low‑cost therapy if I’m uninsured?
  At an FQHC (sliding fee) or your LMHA. Use HRSA’s locator and the HHSC directory. [DSHS FQHC; HRSA locator; HHSC LMHA directory]. (dshs.texas.gov, data.hrsa.gov, hhs.texas.gov)
• Does CHIP cover mental health for my child?
  Yes. CHIP includes behavioral health; small copays may apply (typically $3–$35). HHSC Children’s Medicaid & CHIP. (hhs.texas.gov)
• I had a miscarriage. Am I still eligible for postpartum coverage?
  Yes—postpartum coverage after pregnancy ends applies regardless of outcome, per the state plan amendments effective March 1, 2024. [Governor/HHSC; TMHP]. (gov.texas.gov, tmhp.com)
• Is help available if I’m a domestic violence survivor?
  Yes. Texas funds free shelter and non‑residential counseling statewide; call 800‑799‑SAFE (7233) or use the HHSC map to find local centers. [HHSC Family Violence Program/resources]. (hhs.texas.gov)
• I’m in a rural county—are there mobile crisis teams?
  Yes. Every LMHA runs crisis lines and Mobile Crisis Outreach Teams; start with 988 or your county LMHA number. [HHSC crisis/LMHA list]. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Are there state resources in Spanish?
  Sí. 2‑1‑1, 988, and the Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA) offer Spanish and interpreter services. Most LMHAs and FQHCs provide interpreters. [HRSA Hotline FAQ; HHSC 2‑1‑1]. (mchb.hrsa.gov, hhs.texas.gov)

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What to Expect: Timelines and Realities

• Crisis help is immediate (same day) through 988 or your LMHA crisis line. [HHSC crisis services]. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Pregnancy Medicaid decisions are due in 15 business days (expedited). CHIP Perinatal is also 15 business days. Children’s Medicaid/CHIP and other medical programs: generally within 45 days if not expedited. [Texas Works D‑230; CHIP‑Perinatal FAQ]. (hhs.texas.gov)
• Non‑urgent therapy wait times vary by county and staffing. If offered a later date, ask about cancellations, telehealth options, or FQHC openings.

Plan B if delays happen

• Use FQHCs for sliding‑fee telehealth. Call 988 if symptoms escalate; they can coordinate with local teams. [HRSA locator; HHSC crisis]. (data.hrsa.gov, hhs.texas.gov)

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“Resources by Region” (examples you can call now)

• Harris County (Houston): The Harris Center 713‑970‑7000; text 832‑479‑2135. The Harris Center contact. (theharriscenter.org)
• Dallas County: Metrocare crisis 214‑743‑1215; general 214‑743‑1200. Metrocare crisis/contact. (metrocareservices.org)
• Travis County (Austin): Integral Care 512‑472‑HELP (4357) (24/7). Integral Care crisis helpline. (integralcare.org)
• Bexar County (San Antonio): CHCS crisis 210‑223‑SAFE (7233) or 800‑316‑9241. CHCS. (chcsbc.org)
• Tarrant County (Fort Worth): MHMR ICARE 800‑866‑2465. MHMR Tarrant crisis services. (mhmrtarrant.org)
• El Paso County: Emergence Health Network 915‑779‑1800 (24/7). EHN crisis. (emergencehealthnetwork.org)
• Rio Grande Valley: Tropical Texas Behavioral Health 877‑289‑7199 (crisis); appointments 800‑813‑1233. TTBH. (ttbh.org)
• Lubbock Area: StarCare crisis 806‑740‑1414. HHSC crisis list. (hhs.texas.gov)

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Reality‑Based Tips

• Keep all dollar amounts, dates, and case numbers in one note on your phone. When you call 2‑1‑1 or a plan, that saves minutes.
• When booking, say: “I’m within 12 months postpartum and covered under the Texas postpartum extension. I need mental health care as soon as possible.” It signals urgent need.
• If transportation is a problem, ask your Medicaid plan about non‑emergency medical transportation (NEMT). [HHSC helpful numbers—Medical Transportation 877‑633‑8747]. (hhs.texas.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC), Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), Medicaid.gov, HRSA, and established nonprofits (NAMI, The Montrose Center, SAFE Alliance, Catholic Charities). Core examples include:

• Postpartum Medicaid/CHIP 12‑month extension effective March 1, 2024 (Texas Governor/HHSC; TMHP). (gov.texas.gov, tmhp.com)
• 2025 income limits for Pregnancy Medicaid and CHIP Perinatal (HHSC). (hhs.texas.gov)
• Children’s Medicaid/CHIP 2025 income limits and costs (HHSC). (hhs.texas.gov)
• LMHA/LBHA crisis lines and directory (HHSC). (hhs.texas.gov)
• OSAR regional lines for substance use (HHSC). (hhs.texas.gov)
• Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA) (HRSA). (mchb.hrsa.gov)
• Maternal mental health risks and timing (DSHS/MMMRC/TexasAIM). (dshs.texas.gov)

This guide follows our Editorial Standards—primary/official sources, cross‑verification, link checks, and rapid updates for policy changes. Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.

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Disclaimer

• Program rules, dollar amounts, copays, and timelines can change. Always verify with the official agency or plan before you apply or act.
• This guide is for general information only. It is not legal, medical, or case‑specific advice. For emergencies, call 911. For mental health crises, call 988.
• Website safety: if you’re in a dangerous situation or sharing a device, clear your browser history, use a private window, or access from a safe location (library, friend’s phone). Use caution with texts and emails. For domestic violence safety planning, call 800‑799‑SAFE (7233) or text 88788. HHSC Family Violence Program. (hhs.texas.gov)

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If You Need One Next Step Right Now

• Call your county’s LMHA crisis line (table above) or 988, then apply or confirm postpartum coverage with 2‑1‑1 (Option 2). That combo gets you immediate support and longer‑term care set up. [HHSC crisis; HHSC 2‑1‑1]. (hhs.texas.gov)

You’re doing the right thing by looking for help. Use the numbers and links in this guide, and keep going until you’re on the schedule for care.

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🏛️More Texas Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Texas

• 📋 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