Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers in Wisconsin
Wisconsin Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers (2025)
Last updated: September 2025
This is a no‑fluff, scan‑friendly guide built for single moms in Wisconsin who need real, workable mental health help now. All phone numbers and dollar amounts below come from official state or federal sources or established nonprofits, and we cite them right where you need them.
Quick Help Box (fastest ways to get help)
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7): Call or text 988; chat via 988lifeline.org. Free, confidential, all languages via interpreters. Wisconsin’s in‑state “Wisconsin Lifeline” answers most calls. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- County crisis lines (24/7): Use your county’s direct crisis number (examples below), or dial 988 if you can’t reach them. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- UpliftWI Warmline (peer support, non‑emergency): 534‑202‑5438, daily noon–midnight (24/7 expansion planned/operational updates). Free, confidential. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (pregnancy/postpartum support, 24/7): Call or text 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262). English/Spanish + 60 languages. Not for immediate danger—use 988 for crises. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- 211 Wisconsin (referrals for counseling, support groups, clinics, shelters): Dial 211 or text your ZIP to 898211. If 211 doesn’t connect, call 877‑947‑2211. (uwswac.org, liveunitedbr.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Situation | First Action | Backup/Next Step | Why this helps |
|---|---|---|---|
| You or your child is in immediate mental health crisis | Call/text 988 | Use your county’s crisis line (numbers below) | You’ll reach WI‑trained counselors; they coordinate local help. (dhs.wisconsin.gov) |
| You need a therapist and have BadgerCare Plus | Call your HMO or ForwardHealth Member Services 800‑362‑3002 | Use telehealth; ask about CCS (county program) | Medicaid covers therapy; telehealth OK; CCS adds wraparound support. (dhs.wisconsin.gov) |
| You need a ride to your mental health appointment | Call MTM (NEMT) 866‑907‑1493 | Ask for gas mileage reimbursement ($0.24/mile) | Rides or gas money are covered for eligible Medicaid members. (dhs.wisconsin.gov) |
| Postpartum mood swings, anxiety, depression | Call or text 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA | Ask WIC/Well Badger for local PMADs providers | Trained counselors link you to Wisconsin perinatal mental health care. (mchb.hrsa.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov) |
| You want free peer support today (not crisis) | Call UpliftWI 534‑202‑5438 | Check nearby peer‑run respites (phones below) | Immediate peer support helps stabilize before crisis. (dhs.wisconsin.gov) |
| LGBTQ+, veteran, farmer, or tribal‑specific help | See Diverse Communities section | Use 988 (press 1 for Veterans), Farmer Helpline 888‑901‑2558 | Get targeted support from trained specialists. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, datcp.wi.gov) |
Start Here: If you’re in crisis
- Call or text 988 (24/7). You’ll reach the 988 Wisconsin Lifeline—trained counselors who de‑escalate, safety‑plan, and link you to local care. Interpretation available. If you can’t connect, use your county’s crisis line below. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- For kids/youth in Milwaukee County, you can also call the county crisis line 414‑257‑7222. In Dane County, crisis line is 608‑280‑2600. More county numbers below. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- If you’re in Milwaukee and need in‑person psychiatric emergency care, go to the Milwaukee Mental Health Emergency Center (MHEC), 1525 N. 12th St., Milwaukee, open 24/7. Call the county crisis line first to coordinate. (county.milwaukee.gov)
Reality check: You may wait on hold during peak times. If danger is imminent, call 911. If you are worried about law enforcement response, tell 911 “mental health crisis—request Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) officer.” (county.milwaukee.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Try 988 again (call/text/chat). Ask for a follow‑up call.
- Go to the nearest ER if safety can’t be maintained at home.
- In Milwaukee County, you can walk into MHEC 24/7. (county.milwaukee.gov)
Getting Coverage for Care (BadgerCare Plus)
BadgerCare Plus (Wisconsin Medicaid) covers counseling, psychiatry, day treatment, psychosocial rehab (CCS/CSP), and telehealth for behavioral health. Many services have little or no out‑of‑pocket costs. Apply online via ACCESS or by phone with your local agency. Member help: 800‑362‑3002. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
2025–2026 BadgerCare Plus Income Limits (Effective Feb 1, 2025–Jan 31, 2026)
Monthly limits used to determine eligibility:
| Family Size | Adults (≤100% FPL) | Kids Premium Threshold (201% FPL) | Pregnant People/Kids (≤306% FPL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,304.17 | $2,621.38 | $3,990.76 |
| 2 | $1,762.50 | $3,542.63 | $5,393.25 |
| 3 | $2,220.83 | $4,463.87 | $6,795.74 |
| 4 | $2,679.17 | $5,385.13 | $8,198.26 |
| 5 | $3,137.50 | $6,306.38 | $9,600.75 |
| 6 | $3,595.83 | $7,227.62 | $11,003.24 |
Notes:
- Children in BadgerCare Plus have 12 months of continuous coverage starting 1/1/2024, even if family income temporarily increases (few exceptions). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Copays are typically small: 0.50–0.50–3.00 per service (some members and services are exempt). Non‑emergency ER copay for some adults is $8.00. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
How to apply (fastest first):
- Online: ACCESS Wisconsin—Apply for Benefits (apply for multiple programs at once). (access.wisconsin.gov)
- Need help with your application or documents? Use the MyACCESS app (iOS/Android) to upload proofs and track status. Member help: 800‑362‑3002. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Phone/in person: Contact your county/tribal agency (see “Resources by Region”), or call ForwardHealth Member Services 800‑362‑3002. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Reality check:
- Postpartum coverage in Wisconsin remains 60 days after the pregnancy ends unless you qualify another way. A 12‑month extension is not yet in place as of September 2025. (emhandbooks.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If denied, read the notice closely. You can request a fair hearing by the deadline listed.
- If you’re over income for adult BadgerCare but your child qualifies, keep the child enrolled (continuous coverage rule) and ask about Marketplace plans for yourself at HealthCare.gov (financial help often available). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Telehealth and Getting to Appointments
- Telehealth is covered for mental health and substance use care under Wisconsin Medicaid, including audio‑only in many cases when clinically appropriate. Ask your clinic for a video or phone visit. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): If you have BadgerCare Plus and no ride, call 866‑907‑1493 to schedule a ride, bus pass, or arrange gas reimbursement ($0.24/mile)—schedule at least two business days ahead when possible. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Can’t get through or had a no‑show? Call 866‑907‑1493 and ask for the member ombuds; you may also request an independent review or a state fair hearing. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your clinic if they can do telehealth so transportation isn’t a barrier.
- Check local transit apps, county van programs, or church rides (see Local Organizations section).
- If you’re rural and a farmer, the WI Farm Center can connect you to counseling vouchers and support: 800‑942‑2474; Farmer Wellness Helpline 888‑901‑2558. (datcp.wi.gov)
County Crisis Lines (selected high‑population counties)
Use these when you need immediate de‑escalation and local response; all are 24/7 unless noted.
| County | Crisis Line |
|---|---|
| Milwaukee | 414‑257‑7222 |
| Dane | 608‑280‑2600 |
| Waukesha | 262‑548‑7666 (business hours), 262‑547‑3388 (after hours) |
| Brown | 920‑436‑8888 |
| Racine | 262‑638‑6741 |
| Kenosha | 262‑657‑7188 or 800‑236‑7188 |
| Outagamie | 920‑832‑4646 |
| Winnebago | 920‑233‑7707 |
Full statewide directory (all 72 counties + tribal): County crisis lines—Wisconsin DHS. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call or text 988; ask for local warm hand‑off. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Perinatal & Postpartum Mental Health (PMADs)
- National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (24/7): 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262). They offer real‑time support, referrals, and multi‑language access (English/Spanish + ~60 languages). (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- Moms Mental Health Initiative (MMHI): Wisconsin nonprofit that vets perinatal mental health providers, prioritizes quick access; peer support (Circle of Hope). Email info@mmhimke.org or use their provider connection form. Serves SE Wisconsin and Dane County. (momsmentalhealthinitiative.org)
- Postpartum Support International—Wisconsin Chapter: Provider directory, online groups, statewide volunteers; national PSI HelpLine 800‑944‑4773 (text in English 800‑944‑4773; en Español 971‑203‑7773). (psichapters.com, postpartum.net)
- WIC (Women, Infants and Children): WIC screens for mood concerns and connects you to help. For local WIC office info or referrals, call 800‑642‑7837 or text 608‑360‑9328 (Mon–Fri 7 a.m.–6 p.m.). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Reality check:
- Wisconsin Medicaid postpartum coverage remains 60 days after delivery unless you qualify in another category; if you’ll lose coverage, plan early for ongoing therapy/meds. (emhandbooks.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you can’t find a therapist with perinatal training, ask MMHI/PSI for a referral with sooner availability.
- Ask your clinic about telehealth; consider peer support (UpliftWI 534‑202‑5438). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Peer Support You Can Use Right Away
- UpliftWI Warmline (non‑emergency peer support): 534‑202‑5438, daily noon–midnight. Free, confidential; answered by certified peer specialists. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Peer‑run Respites (free, voluntary, short stays—great for preventing hospitalization). Call ahead to discuss fit and arrange a stay (typical: 1–7 nights). Adults 18+. Numbers below. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
| Respite | City | Phone | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iris Place | Appleton | 920‑815‑3217 | 5 bedrooms |
| La Crosse Lighthouse | La Crosse | 608‑519‑1489 (peer calls) / 608‑461‑5527 | 4 bedrooms |
| Solstice House | Madison | 608‑244‑5077 | 4 bedrooms |
| Monarch House | Menomonie | 715‑505‑5641 | 4 bedrooms |
| Parachute House | Milwaukee | 414‑877‑5918 | 5 bedrooms |
| R&R House (Veterans only) | Pewaukee | 262‑336‑9540 | 3 bedrooms |
- NAMI Wisconsin (support groups statewide; free): Find your local affiliate or join online “Being Together” groups; statewide office 608‑268‑6000. (namiwisconsin.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Try another respite (each has different feel). Join an online NAMI group while you wait for therapy. Ask 211 for grief, DV/trauma, or specialized groups. (unitedwaydanecounty.org)
County Programs that Wrap Around Families
- Comprehensive Community Services (CCS): County/tribal program for mental health or substance use needs that, if ignored, could lead to hospitalization. Covers team‑based supports like psychotherapy, meds management, peer support, job/parenting skills, wellness recovery. Eligibility is confirmed via a functional screen. Contact your county CCS agency to start. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Coordinated Services Teams (CST) for kids with complex behavioral health needs: “Wraparound” planning across school, mental health, child welfare, juvenile justice, etc. Available in most counties and 10 tribal nations. Ask your county human services or school to refer, or self‑refer. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Wisconsin Wayfinder (children with delays/disabilities or mental health needs): call 877‑947‑2929 for help finding services. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Reality check:
- Enrollment steps (screening, care planning) take time and depend on county staffing.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask when your screen can be scheduled; request interim referrals to outpatient therapy or peer support.
- If your child has significant disability‑related needs, ask about the CLTS Waiver (Children’s Long‑Term Support). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Local Organizations, Charities, and Community Clinics
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): integrated primary care + behavioral health on a sliding‑fee scale. By federal rule, full discount at ≤100% FPL (often nominal fee), partial discounts at 101–200% FPL. Find a center near you with HRSA’s locator. (bphc.hrsa.gov, datawarehouse.hrsa.gov)
- Outreach Community Health Centers (Milwaukee): outpatient therapy/psychiatry, case management; also crisis/street outreach and benefits help. Sliding fee available. (ochc-milw.org)
- NAMI Wisconsin affiliates: peer‑led family and peer support groups in most counties, some women’s groups and trauma/loss groups online. (namiwisconsin.org)
- 211 Wisconsin can refer to faith‑based counseling, DV shelters, parenting classes, rent/utility help, child care, and more. Dial 211, text ZIP to 898211, or use your county’s United Way 211 page. (unitedwaydanecounty.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If a clinic is full, ask to be added to a cancellation list and request telehealth openings at nearby sites. Use HRSA locator to widen your search radius beyond your city. (data.hrsa.gov)
Diverse Communities: Targeted Supports
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: The Trevor Project (866‑488‑7386) offers 24/7 crisis counseling for LGBTQ+ youth; many NAMI affiliates run LGBTQ+ groups. 988 provides LGBTQIA+‑affirming support. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or raising disabled children: Wisconsin Wayfinder 877‑947‑2929 connects you to respite, therapy, equipment, and behavioral supports; CCS and CST can coordinate across school/medical/home. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Vet Centers offer free, confidential counseling for Veterans, Guard/Reserve, and families without needing VA enrollment. Milwaukee Vet Center 414‑434‑1311; Madison 608‑264‑5342; Green Bay 920‑435‑5650. For crisis, call 988 and press 1 (Veterans). (va.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee moms: 988 and the Maternal Mental Health Hotline both offer interpreters (60+ languages). For WIC and MCH referrals with language access, call 800‑642‑7837 (Well Badger). (mchb.hrsa.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Tribal citizens: Use your tribal clinic/behavioral health department and county crisis line; CCS is available in several tribal nations. DHS lists 12 tribal health departments and regional contacts. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Rural single moms and farm families: Wisconsin Farm Center 800‑942‑2474 provides counseling vouchers and the 24/7 Farmer Wellness Helpline 888‑901‑2558; tele‑counseling available. (datcp.wi.gov)
- Single fathers and co‑parents: All resources above apply. NAMI and peer respites are inclusive; 988 supports everyone. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Language access tips: 988, HRSA Maternal Hotline, and 211 all provide interpreter services. Say your language first, then “interpreter.” (mchb.hrsa.gov, unitedwaydanecounty.org)
Data You Can Use (Wisconsin)
- Suicide remains a top‑10 cause of death in Wisconsin; the age‑adjusted suicide rate was roughly 15.6 per 100,000 in 2022 (most recent detailed statewide rate available). Use DHS dashboards for current trends. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Severe Maternal Morbidity (SMM) at delivery hospitalizations affected about 70 per 10,000 delivery stays in Wisconsin in 2022, with higher rates among Black birthing people and those on BadgerCare. This underscores the need for postpartum mental and physical care continuity. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips
- Waitlists are common. Book telehealth while you wait. Ask to be put on a cancellation list.
- Postpartum coverage: plan ahead before day 60. If coverage will end, ask your clinic social worker to help you switch to Marketplace coverage or identify low‑cost options (FQHC sliding fee). (bphc.hrsa.gov)
- Private insurance parity: If your private plan makes mental health harder to access than other medical care, file a complaint with the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) at 800‑236‑8517 or online. (oci.wi.gov)
- Rides: Call NEMT at least two business days ahead; keep your trip number. Use the member ombuds if problems continue. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
How to Apply: Step‑by‑Step (BadgerCare Plus)
- Create an ACCESS account and apply online: ACCESS Wisconsin—Apply. You can also apply by phone with your county/tribal agency, or in person. Upload documents in the MyACCESS app (photo upload). (access.wisconsin.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Required documents checklist (have these ready):
- Photo ID (if available), Social Security numbers (if you have them), immigration documents if applicable.
- Proof of Wisconsin residency (lease, mail, or statement).
- Proof of income (recent pay stubs or self‑employment records).
- For pregnancy: doctor’s note or prenatal records can speed up coverage categories.
- Insurance information if currently covered.
- If you need rides as soon as you’re approved, note your appointment dates for NEMT scheduling. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call ForwardHealth Member Services 800‑362‑3002 for help, or ask your clinic’s eligibility worker to help submit documents via MyACCESS. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting until day 59 postpartum to look for ongoing care or insurance options.
- Not using telehealth when transportation or child care is tight.
- Skipping the ride because you missed the two‑day booking window—call NEMT anyway for an exception, and ask about gas reimbursement if you can drive. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Assuming you don’t qualify: Kids have higher income limits (up to 306% FPL), and children enrolled get 12 months of continuous coverage. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Not asking for peer support while you wait—UpliftWI and NAMI can help you stay stable. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, namiwisconsin.org)
Region‑by‑Region Fast Contacts
- Milwaukee County:
- Crisis line 414‑257‑7222
- Mental Health Emergency Center, 1525 N. 12th St. (24/7 psychiatric emergency)
- NAMI Southeast WI info line 262‑524‑8886
- Walk‑in county access clinics (South/East) and Mobile Crisis available. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, county.milwaukee.gov)
- Dane County (Madison):
- Crisis line 608‑280‑2600
- NAMI Dane County support groups online and in person. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, namiwisconsin.org)
- Brown County (Green Bay):
- Crisis line 920‑436‑8888
- Green Bay Vet Center 920‑435‑5650 for Veterans/families. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, va.gov)
- Waukesha County:
- Crisis line 262‑548‑7666 (business hours); 262‑547‑3388 (after hours). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Outagamie County/Fox Valley:
- Crisis line 920‑832‑4646
- Iris Place peer‑run respite 920‑815‑3217. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Statewide:
- DHS County Crisis Directory (all counties + tribal): see full list. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Program‑by‑Program: What’s Covered, Eligibility, How to Apply
BadgerCare Plus Mental Health Coverage
- What’s covered: outpatient therapy, psychiatry, day treatment, psychosocial rehab (CCS/CSP), inpatient when medically necessary, and transportation to care (NEMT). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Eligibility: Income limits vary by group (see table). Adults ≤100% FPL; children and pregnant people higher (up to 306% FPL). Children have 12 months of continuous coverage. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Apply: ACCESS website or your local agency; manage via MyACCESS app; member services 800‑362‑3002. (access.wisconsin.gov, dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If denied, request a fair hearing by the deadline on your notice.
- If a provider won’t accept your HMO, ask Member Services to help you switch to an in‑network clinic. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Comprehensive Community Services (CCS)
- Covers team‑based recovery supports (psychotherapy, meds support, peer support, skills training, parenting, wellness). Available through counties/tribes after a functional screen shows need. No copays for Medicaid members. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Apply: contact your county human services CCS program. Use CCS consumer page to learn the process. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask for interim outpatient therapy and peer support while waiting.
- Consider Coordinated Services Teams (children) for multi‑system needs. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
UpliftWI Warmline (Non‑emergency)
- Free, anonymous peer support: 534‑202‑5438. Great when you need to talk but aren’t in immediate crisis. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Try a peer‑run respite call line, or join a NAMI online group the same day. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, namiwisconsin.org)
Maternal Mental Health
- National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA, 24/7. Rapid support + referrals. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- Moms Mental Health Initiative (SE WI & Dane): vetted perinatal providers and peer support. (momsmentalhealthinitiative.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your OB or pediatrician to consult PSI’s provider directory for earliest availability. (postpartum.net)
211 Wisconsin
- Dial 211 (or text ZIP to 898211) for live referrals to counseling, support groups, shelters, food, diapers, and childcare. If 211 fails from your phone, use 877‑947‑2211. (unitedwaydanecounty.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Try another region’s 211 toll‑free line shown on your county United Way page (service is statewide). (greatriversunitedway.org)
NEMT—Rides to Care
- Book/manage rides via 866‑907‑1493; gas reimbursement $0.24/mile with signed trip log; member ombuds available for problems. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- File a complaint with MTM or request an independent review; you can also request a state fair hearing (instructions in denial letter). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Tables You Can Screenshot
A) Fast Contacts (by need)
| Need | Who to call |
|---|---|
| Crisis now | 988 (call/text/chat) |
| County crisis line | See County table above |
| Peer support now (non‑emergency) | UpliftWI 534‑202‑5438 |
| Postpartum support | Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA |
| Kids with special health/behavioral needs | Wisconsin Wayfinder 877‑947‑2929 |
| Medicaid member help | ForwardHealth 800‑362‑3002 |
| NEMT rides | MTM 866‑907‑1493 |
| 211 referrals | 211 / text ZIP to 898211 |
B) BadgerCare Plus 2025–26 Monthly Income Guide (selected sizes)
| Family Size | Adults (≤100% FPL) | Pregnant People/Kids (≤306% FPL) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,304.17 | $3,990.76 |
| 2 | $1,762.50 | $5,393.25 |
| 3 | $2,220.83 | $6,795.74 |
| 4 | $2,679.17 | $8,198.26 |
C) Peer‑Run Respites (free, call first)
| Respite | City | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Iris Place | Appleton | 920‑815‑3217 |
| La Crosse Lighthouse | La Crosse | 608‑519‑1489 / 608‑461‑5527 |
| Solstice House | Madison | 608‑244‑5077 |
| Monarch House | Menomonie | 715‑505‑5641 |
| Parachute House | Milwaukee | 414‑877‑5918 |
| R&R House (Veterans) | Pewaukee | 262‑336‑9540 |
D) Telehealth & Rides—Quick Facts
| Topic | What to know |
|---|---|
| Medicaid telehealth | Behavioral health covered, including audio‑only when appropriate. (dhs.wisconsin.gov) |
| Out‑of‑state telehealth | Allowed if the provider is enrolled in WI Medicaid and licensed appropriately. (dhs.wisconsin.gov) |
| NEMT rides | Call 866‑907‑1493; schedule ≥2 business days ahead; ask about gas reimbursement $0.24/mile. (dhs.wisconsin.gov) |
E) Insurance Parity & Complaints
| Issue | Who helps |
|---|---|
| Private plan barriers to mental health | Wisconsin OCI Consumer Affairs 800‑236‑8517 or file online; parity protections apply to most group plans. (oci.wi.gov) |
| BadgerCare Plus questions | ForwardHealth Member Services 800‑362‑3002. (dhs.wisconsin.gov) |
Real‑World Use Cases
- “I can’t get time off and have no sitters.” Ask for a video visit (Medicaid covers mental health telehealth). Book UpliftWI before bed for peer support. If money is tight, consider an FQHC for sliding‑fee therapy. (dhs.wisconsin.gov, bphc.hrsa.gov)
- “Postpartum anxiety hit me hard.” Call 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA for immediate support and referrals; email MMHI for a therapist who can see you quickly; ask your Medicaid HMO about therapy by video if getting out is tough. (mchb.hrsa.gov, momsmentalhealthinitiative.org)
- “Therapy is too far.” Use NEMT for rides or gas money; if a driver is late or doesn’t show, call the member ombuds the same day to log it and request solutions. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
10 Wisconsin‑Specific FAQs
- Does BadgerCare Plus cover therapy and psychiatry?
- Yes. Outpatient therapy, psychiatry, day treatment, and psychosocial rehab (like CCS) are covered. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- How much are copays?
- Most copays are 0.50–0.50–3.00 per service; many people and services (kids, pregnancy, AI/AN, hospice) are exempt. Some non‑emergency ER visits for certain adults cost $8.00. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Can I do therapy by phone?
- Often yes. Medicaid allows audio‑only for behavioral health when clinically appropriate. Ask your clinic. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- How long is postpartum BadgerCare coverage?
- 60 days after pregnancy ends unless you qualify in another category. (emhandbooks.wisconsin.gov)
- Can I get a ride to counseling?
- If you have BadgerCare Plus and no other way, call NEMT 866‑907‑1493. Gas reimbursement is $0.24/mile with paperwork. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Where can I go during a crisis in Milwaukee?
- Call 414‑257‑7222 for Mobile Crisis; for immediate psychiatric emergency, go to the Mental Health Emergency Center, 1525 N. 12th St. (24/7). (county.milwaukee.gov)
- Who helps my teen with complex needs?
- Ask your county about Coordinated Services Teams (CST) and youth CCS; both coordinate across school, county, and clinics. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Is there postpartum‑specific support?
- Yes. The Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA) offers 24/7 help; Moms Mental Health Initiative can connect you to vetted providers who see moms quickly. (mchb.hrsa.gov, momsmentalhealthinitiative.org)
- I’m a veteran. Where can my family get counseling?
- Vet Centers provide confidential counseling free of charge: Milwaukee 414‑434‑1311; Madison 608‑264‑5342; Green Bay 920‑435‑5650. For crisis, dial 988 (press 1). (va.gov)
- Who do I call if my insurer won’t cover mental health fairly?
- Wisconsin OCI Consumer Affairs 800‑236‑8517—they take complaints and enforce parity rules. (oci.wi.gov)
Application Checklist
- Your ACCESS account is set up and you can log in.
- IDs/SSNs/immigration documents (if available), proof of Wisconsin address.
- Income proofs (pay stubs, self‑employment logs), any current insurance cards.
- Appointment dates to set up rides (NEMT: 866‑907‑1493). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What If You Hit a Wall?
- Use peer support immediately (UpliftWI 534‑202‑5438). Ask for a supervisor when systems stall.
- Request county CCS/CST screening; ask for interim outpatient therapy and peer support.
- For private insurance barriers, contact Wisconsin OCI 800‑236‑8517 and mention mental health parity. (oci.wi.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Wisconsin Department of Health Services, USDA, HUD, HRSA, and established nonprofits. This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Key sources used and date-checked:
- BadgerCare Plus income limits and covered services (revised 2025–2026; page updated July 22, 2025). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- 988 Wisconsin Lifeline & DHS crisis resources (directories updated 2025). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Medicaid telehealth policy (last revised Nov 18, 2024; FAQ 2023) and NEMT program details (last revised Aug 29, 2025). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Maternal Mental Health Hotline (HRSA; reviewed Nov 2023). (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- UpliftWI Warmline (DHS news releases 2024–2025). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Peer‑run respites (DHS; updated May 20, 2025). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- CCS/CST program pages (DHS; updated 2024–2025). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
- Postpartum coverage status (DHS policy manual April 9, 2025; news coverage 2025). (emhandbooks.wisconsin.gov)
- Suicide & maternal morbidity data dashboards (DHS; updated 2024–2025). (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
Disclaimer
- Program amounts, eligibility rules, and contact details can change at any time. Always confirm with the official agency (we’ve linked to them). This guide is informational and not legal or medical advice.
- Security and privacy: For your safety, only submit applications through official state portals (ACCESS and MyACCESS). Never send SSNs or personal documents to third‑party sites or unverified email addresses. Report suspected scams to ForwardHealth Member Services 800‑362‑3002. (dhs.wisconsin.gov)
What we saw in the top search results—and how this guide is better
Most pages we reviewed either listed generic hotlines without Wisconsin‑specific numbers, lacked 2025 BadgerCare income limits, skipped county crisis lines, or omitted practical details like ride scheduling, gas mileage rate, or telehealth coverage. We filled those gaps with:
- Current 2025 BadgerCare Plus dollar limits and copays.
- County crisis numbers and Milwaukee’s 24/7 psychiatric emergency center.
- Telehealth and ride‑to‑care rules (with phone numbers and timelines).
- Perinatal‑specific hotlines and vetted Wisconsin programs (MMHI, PSI‑WI).
- Peer supports (UpliftWI, peer‑run respites) with direct numbers.
- Concrete Plan B steps and checklists—so you can act today.
If a link is broken or something changed, tell us at info@asinglemother.org and we’ll fix it fast.
🏛️More Wisconsin Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Wisconsin
- 📋 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
