Mental health is crucial for your overall well-being. It affects your daily mood, energy, stress management, and relationships. Yet, the cost of quality care can be a barrier, making it hard to maintain mental health. Regular therapy, vital for ongoing challenges like depression and anxiety, can be pricey without good insurance or financial support.
For Central California residents, the Central California Alliance for Health (CCAH) offers mental health coverage, improving access to quality care. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to CCAH support for mental health needs.
We’ll explain your CCAH coverage, including coverage details, referral needs, and using benefits for mental health care. We’ll also discuss finding in-network providers, obtaining authorizations, and tips for reducing financial stress when getting care.
Need a therapist who accepts CCAH?Search in-network providers near you
What is Central California Alliance for Health insurance?
Central California Alliance for Health, commonly known as “The Alliance,” is a regional local public agency dedicated to delivering comprehensive Medicaid healthcare plan to the central region of California. The plan provides access to dental and vision care, pharmacy services, urgent care, mental health support, senior and child services, long-term care, in-home support, and substance use disorder services. CCAH emphasizes offering no-cost or low-cost healthcare options to Californians who meet eligibility requirements.
Where is Central California Alliance for Health available?
CCAH operates exclusively in California, serving residents in Mariposa County, Santa Cruz County, Monterey County, San Benito County, and Merced County.
Does Central California Alliance for Health cover therapy?
CCAH covers both in-person and online therapy, also known as telehealth. Understanding the importance of accessible mental health care, the Alliance offers a range of services to support its members.
These services are tailored to address conditions like substance abuse, various forms of anxiety and depression, stress, emotional problems, relationship issues, ADHD, OCD, autism, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and phobias. This comprehensive coverage ensures members have access to the necessary care to address their unique behavioral and mental health needs.
Did you know?
A peer-reviewed study in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that patients treated exclusively via telepsychiatry experienced clinically significant improvements in anxiety and depression symptoms — with rural areas showing comparable outcomes to urban areas. Virtual care isn’t just more convenient; for many people, it’s just as effective.
What therapy does Central California Alliance for Health cover?
While the specific services covered may vary based on the member’s unique needs, CCAH generally includes the following types of therapy services:
Individual therapy: One-on-one sessions between therapist and client, ideal for addressing personal or focused issues.
Family therapy: Improves communication and resolves conflicts to foster healthier relationships, including child-parent therapy and couples’ therapy.
Group therapy: Offers a supportive environment for individuals to share experiences and gain peer support.
Psychological testing and cognitive assessment: Evaluates cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning to identify psychological issues.
Mental health and developmental disorder treatments: Evidence-based interventions tailored to individuals, including CBT, DBT, and more.
Emotional support for pregnancy and early parenthood: Offers guidance to new and expectant parents during this critical period.
Maternal mental health treatment: Specialized care for mental health conditions during pregnancy and postpartum.
Central California Alliance for Health provides coverage for mental health services from various providers, including:
Community Health Workers (CHW)
CCAH partners with Carelon Behavioral Health of California (formerly Beacon Health Options) to provide comprehensive mental health services. The plan includes in-home supportive services (IHSS) for members needing home assistance. The Alliance also joins a data-sharing incentive initiative to improve care management and coordination between members and providers.
For details on various therapy options available in mental health care, please review your CCAH plan details. You can also contact the Central California Alliance for Health directly to understand which therapies your insurance covers.
Grow works with Central California Alliance for Health Medi-Cal.Browse in-network therapists
Medication coverage with Central California Alliance for Health
CCAH offers coverage for psychiatric medications for numerous mental health conditions, while Carelon Behavioral Health oversees the authorization process for specific high-cost or specialized medications. Certain injectable antipsychotics or new-generation drugs may require prior approval.
This process ensures members receive appropriate medications while maintaining cost-effective care. It’s crucial to contact CCAH’s member services or consult with Carelon Behavioral Health for detailed information.
What types of therapy does Central California Alliance for Health not cover?
While CCAH provides extensive mental health coverage, some therapies are excluded, including hypnotherapy and certain non-traditional methods like biofeedback therapy, due to insufficient scientific proof. CCAH also excludes experimental therapies not FDA-approved or deemed medically necessary.
Always check with member services or CCAH to confirm coverage for alternative therapies.
Does Central California Alliance for Health cover online therapy?
CCAH acknowledges the difficulties individuals encounter when seeking in-person mental health services, especially in rural areas with limited access to therapists. To address this issue, CCAH now includes coverage for online therapy (commonly known as telehealth or virtual therapy) alongside traditional in-person sessions. This provides a convenient alternative for members to access therapy services from licensed mental health professionals online.
For more details on telehealth options, contact CCAH’s telehealth services.
Does Central California Alliance for Health cover out-of-network therapy?
If you want to see an out-of-network mental healthcare provider with CCAH, it may cost much more than seeing an in-network provider. You may have to pay out of pocket, and you should check beforehand to see if you will be able to file for any kind of reimbursement from CCAH. If you have questions about out-of-network therapy coverage, please refer to your CCAH summary of benefits (SOB) as described below, or contact CCAH directly.
What if I can’t find an in-network therapist in my area through CCAH?
CCAH partners with Carelon Behavioral Health (formerly Beacon Health Options) to manage behavioral health services. If you’re having difficulty finding an in-network provider, your first call should be to Carelon at 855-765-9700 — they are required to help you locate available providers within a reasonable distance. If no in-network provider is available within a reasonable timeframe or distance, CCAH may be required to authorize care from an out-of-network provider at in-network rates.
Telehealth is also worth exploring — virtual therapy through in-network providers like those on Grow Therapy significantly expands your options beyond your immediate geographic area, and CCAH covers telehealth at the same rate as in-person sessions.
How to check if your Central California Alliance for Health plan covers therapy
If you’re uncertain about your mental health coverage with Central California Alliance for Health, here are two primary ways to verify it:
1. Check your Central California Alliance for Health “summary of benefits”
To determine whether your CCAH plan covers therapy, please refer to your summary of benefits (SOB). This document outlines the specific services included in your health plan, along with associated costs and limitations.
Locate a section in the SOB that references mental health, behavioral health, or substance abuse services. Additionally, examine the section on “outpatient services,” as therapy is included under this category.
Example Only
If the “Network Provider” or “Out-of-Network Provider” sections list costs like a copay or coinsurance, it usually means your plan covers mental health services. For example, a $20 copay per therapy session suggests coverage.
If these sections state “not covered,” your plan likely doesn’t include mental health services. In this case, consider exploring alternative coverage options or additional plans for mental health benefits.
For a better understanding of how summaries of benefits are structured, you can refer to this sample SOB available on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services website.
2. Contact Central California Alliance for Health directly
For specific inquiries or detailed information, contact CCAH’s member services by calling the 800-700-3874.
Central California Alliance for Health therapy copay
When paying for therapy, your copay (or copayment) is an important cost you should know about.
The copay is a fixed amount you have to pay for each therapy session. Copays can vary depending on your plan, as well as the therapist you see, so it’s important to double check your copay under the mental health coverage section on your summary of benefits.
If you have any doubts or questions about if you have to pay a copay, or what your copay is, you should reach out to Central California Alliance for Health support directly.
Sample image
Does Central California Alliance for Health require a referral to see a therapist?
Depending on your plan, Central California Alliance for Health might require a referral from your primary care provider (PCP) for certain behavioral health services. Referrals are usually needed for specialized care, and authorizations may be required for coverage.
For further assistance, please call Carelon Behavioral Health at 855-765-9700.
How to find a therapist Covered by Central California Alliance for Health
Locating an in-network therapist covered by Central California Alliance for Health is straightforward when you know the right resources. Here are three strategies to assist you in finding the appropriate provider:
1. Central California Alliance for Health directory of therapists
CCAH’s online provider directory helps members find in-network mental health professionals by filtering results by location, specialization, and availability. This tool saves time by allowing you to easily locate providers who accept your insurance.
2. Contact Central California Alliance for Health customer service
If you prefer speaking with a representative, call Member Services at 800-700-3874 for help finding an in-network therapist. Customer support is available in English and Spanish for all members.
3. Use a therapy provider Like Grow Therapy
With Grow Therapy, you can search for mental health providers who are in-network with Central California Alliance for Health who are licensed in your state and provide both online therapy or in-person therapy. On Grow Therapy, you can browse our growing network of vetted therapists and use filters to search by age, specialty, gender, and more. Simply pick the therapist who meets your unique needs and book your first session.
When booking, you’ll be asked to enter your insurance information to verify eligibility and receive a cost estimate.
What do terms like deductible, copay, and coinsurance mean?
Navigating the insurance system—especially when you’re in need of mental health support—can be challenging and confusing. For help, please visit our understanding health insurance article.
Navigating common issues with Central California Alliance for Health coverage
While CCAH provides comprehensive coverage, navigating mental health benefits can be challenging. Here are some common issues with CCAH coverage:
1. Denied claims
Denials often occur due to incorrect billing codes, lack of authorization, or non-covered services. Check the denial reasons and contact member services for clarification and appeal steps. Providers can help you resubmit claims, and CCAH can guide you through appeals.
2. Needing pre-authorization
Check with your provider or CCAH for pre-authorization needs for some mental health services. Ensure your provider submits the necessary paperwork and confirms authorization before appointments or treatments.
3. Incorrect or confusing billing
Unexpected charges may result from billing errors or out-of-network rates. Compare bills and contact the provider’s billing department for verification, and if needed, seek help from CCAH’s member services.
Final thoughts
Understanding and using your CCAH mental health benefits effectively is vital for your well-being. Knowing your coverage helps you get the most from your benefits while keeping costs down. Be proactive in seeking help from CCAH’s member services, your provider, and other resources to ensure you receive the care you need.
Don’t be afraid to explore alternative treatments. Telehealth offers convenience, and in-home supportive services provide essential care at home. Whether it’s maternal mental health or developmental disorders, specialized support is available. By focusing on preventive measures like stress management and mental health check-ups, you can foster a healthier, happier life.
Making the most of your CCAH mental health benefits starts with knowing what you’re entitled to — and having a clear path to a provider. Whether you’re starting therapy for the first time or returning after a gap, the coverage is there. The next step is using it.
Find a therapist who accepts Central California Alliance for Health.
Browse licensed in-network therapists on Grow, filter by specialty and availability, and book online.
Frequently asked questions
Does Central California Alliance for Health cover online therapy?
Does Central California Alliance for Health cover online therapy?
Yes — CCAH covers telehealth services, including virtual therapy sessions with licensed in-network providers. This is particularly valuable for members in rural areas of Monterey, Santa Cruz, Merced, San Benito, and Mariposa counties where in-person providers may be limited. Coverage rates for telehealth are generally the same as for in-person visits.
Do I need a referral to see a therapist through CCAH?
Do I need a referral to see a therapist through CCAH?
It depends on your specific plan and the type of service. For many outpatient mental health services, a referral may not be required. However, for specialized care, CCAH may require a referral from your primary care provider (PCP) or prior authorization through Carelon Behavioral Health. Call Carelon at 855-765-9700 to confirm requirements before your first appointment.
What is Carelon Behavioral Health and why do they manage my mental health benefits?
What is Carelon Behavioral Health and why do they manage my mental health benefits?
Carelon Behavioral Health (formerly Beacon Health Options) is the behavioral health partner CCAH contracts with to manage mental health and substance use disorder services for members. When you need mental health care — whether a therapist referral, prior authorization, or help finding a provider — Carelon is often the first point of contact. Their member line is 855-765-9700.
Can I use CCAH coverage for therapy if I also have Medicare?
Can I use CCAH coverage for therapy if I also have Medicare?
If you have both CCAH (Medi-Cal) and Medicare, you are considered “dual eligible.” In most cases, Medicare pays first for covered services, with Medi-Cal potentially covering remaining costs. For mental health services, this coordination can significantly reduce or eliminate your out-of-pocket costs. Contact CCAH Member Services at 800-700-3874 to confirm how your benefits coordinate.
About Lianne Fachetti
Lianne Fachetti is a writer who specializes in topics related to psychology, neuroscience, mood disorders, and child development. She worked as a researcher at the Brain Research Center of the University of British Columbia, where she investigated memory formation and the impact of hormones on mental health, memory, and sleep. Additionally, she is a certified ABA therapy technician with over a decade of experience working with young children on the Autism spectrum who exhibit severe behavioral challenges.
