Access to mental health care providers in Galveston County has improved since 2021, but barriers such as insurance coverage, cost, and scheduling continue to limit access to care. According to Andrea Usanga, chief strategy and innovation officer for Mental Health America of Greater Houston, having more providers does not necessarily mean better access if they do not accept a patient’s insurance or are unaffordable.
The Challenges of Accessing Mental Health Care
Lane Baker, chief operating officer at Coastal Health and Wellness, emphasized that untreated mental health conditions can develop into more serious disorders. The county’s federally qualified health center provides integrated primary medical, pediatric, and dental care, including behavioral health services, through federal funding.
For residents seeking outpatient therapy, the process typically begins with an intake process to match individuals with a provider based on patient concerns, availability, and insurance coverage. However, gaps in access can lead people to seek alternative methods, such as artificial intelligence chatbots, which can have harmful consequences.
The Cost of Mental Health Care
Therapy costs in Galveston County vary by provider and treatment type, with an average cost of $110 per session. Biweekly therapy can cost around $2,700 annually. Many behavioral health professionals no longer accept insurance due to low reimbursement rates, which can make it difficult for patients to access care.
Kristina Ford, Clear Creek ISD’s director of counseling and student services, noted that counseling services help students manage academic and personal challenges while connecting families with outside support when needed. However, service availability in the community can fluctuate, affecting how quickly students can be matched with the right level of support.
Improving Access to Mental Health Care
Improving access to mental health care requires earlier intervention and stronger integration with primary health care systems. Usanga emphasized the importance of awareness and preventative care, citing the increasing awareness of mental health among millennials and Gen Z.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Houston — read the source article.
