Mental health issues are common, affecting more one in five adults in the United States. Many people do not seek treatment for mental health disorders, often either because they are concerned about cost, or they don’t know where to turn. Fortunately, in California, if you have Medi-Cal, many mental health services are covered, and you can find mental health services providers at community health centers.
Why Your Mental Health Matters
Mental health issues can significantly impact your life and your ability to function and be productive. Your mental health affects your behavior, your emotions, and your overall well-being. It can even affect your physical health. Poor mental health can raise the risk of certain diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, and can also lead to poor health habits or even self-medicating with drugs or alcohol.
Qualifying for Medi-Cal
If your family is low income but you don’t have Medi-Cal yet, you should check to see if you may qualify.
In 2026, Medi-Cal income limits are as follows:
- For one person, the limit is 138% of the FPL, which is $21,597 annually. For each additional family member, $7,500 is added to the limit. That means that for a family of two the limit is $29,187, and for a family of four, it is $44,367.
- For children 19 and under, the family income limit is 266% of FPL for a family of one, which is $41,629 per year. For a family of four, the limit is $85,519 per year.
- For pregnant women, income limits may be higher (213% FPL) for pregnancy-related coverage.
As of January 1. 2026, the Medi-Cal asset limits are $130,000 for persons enrolled in specific programs that require an asset test, with an additional $65,000 added for each individual in the household. The asset limits do not apply to everyone enrolled in Medi-Cal. They apply if you:
- Are 65 or older
- Have a disability
- Live in a nursing home
- Are in a family that makes too much money to qualify under federal tax rules
Immigration status rules also apply. Beginning January 1, 2026, California implemented an enrollment freeze for certain immigrants:
- Adults age 19+ without “satisfactory immigration status” (such as undocumented adults or some recent legal residents) can no longer newly enroll in full-scope Medi-Cal.
- If they apply after that date, they can generally only get restricted-scope coverage, which includes:
- Emergency services
- Pregnancy-related care
- Some nursing home care
People already enrolled before 2026 are mostly protected:
- They can keep full coverage regardless of immigration status as long as they stay eligible and renew each year.
- If they lose coverage and don’t re-enroll within a short grace period, they may only qualify for restricted benefits afterward.
Some people can still qualify for Medi-Cal regardless of their immigration status, including:
- Children under age 19
- Pregnant individuals (during pregnancy and up to 12 months after)
- Former foster youth under 26
Mental Health Services Covered Under Med-Cal
Medi-Cal covers a wide range of mental health services. These services are considered essential health benefits and are available to eligible members when medically necessary.
Coverage includes:
Mental Health Services
Medi-Cal includes outpatient and inpatient mental health care, such as:
- Individual, group, and family therapy
- Psychiatric evaluations and medication management
- Psychological testing and assessments
- Specialty mental health services for more serious conditions
Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Medi-Cal also covers treatment for drug and alcohol abuse, including:
- Outpatient counseling and treatment programs
- Intensive outpatient and residential treatment
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Detox services (including inpatient detox when medically necessary)
To find a provider, check your Medi-Cal managed care plan’s provider directory. The California Department of Health Care Services also offers tools and information to help you understand your benefits and find participating providers.
Community Health Centers
Community health centers are community-based healthcare providers that receive federal funding to provide affordable healthcare services to underserved and low-income populations, regardless of ability to pay. These health centers are supported and regulated by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and accept Medi-Cal.
Community health centers provide a host of services, including primary care, preventive care, chronic disease management, mental and behavioral health services, substance use treatment, and sometimes dental and vision care.
Even if you don’t have Medi-Cal or other health insurance, community health centers have a sliding fee scale, meaning that the cost of care is adjusted based on a patient’s income and family size. This allows people without insurance and a low income to receive healthcare and mental health care at reduced costs.
In Closing
If you are struggling with your mental health, Medi-Cal will likely cover the treatment that you need. Community health centers are a great resource, providing mental health treatment for those with Medi-Cal, and for those without insurance. Health Service Alliance is network of community health centers, providing mental health and healthcare services. We are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized, and accessible care regardless of your ability to pay. Reach out today to learn more.
