Guides
Finding care in Texas, explained
Looking for a therapist, a counselor or a treatment program for the first time is a lot. These guides cover the questions people ask most: who to see, what your insurance will pay, and how much care you need.
Guide
How to choose a therapist in Texas
Choosing a therapist in Texas: what LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LCDC and psychologist mean, who can prescribe, how to check a license, video visits and first-call questions.
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IOP vs PHP vs outpatient: levels of care explained
IOP, PHP and weekly therapy compared: hours a week, who each fits, how ASAM levels map to them, what insurance needs, and how to step up or down.
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How to use insurance for therapy in Texas
Using insurance for therapy in Texas: network, copays and deductibles, what to ask your plan, carve-outs, Medicaid STAR and CHIP, Medicare, parity and self-pay.
Read the guideWhere to start
Not sure who to see? Therapists and counselors (LPCs, LCSWs, LMFTs and psychologists) do talk therapy. Addiction counselors (LCDCs) focus on alcohol and drug use. Psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners can prescribe medication. Many people see a therapist and a prescriber at the same time.
Worried about cost? Call the member number on your insurance card first. Ask whether a provider is in network, whether you need a referral, and what a visit will cost you. If you'll pay yourself, ask the provider for their fee and a written estimate before the first visit.
Need more than a weekly visit? Intensive outpatient (IOP) and partial hospitalization (PHP) programs give several hours of care a week while you live at home, for mental health or for substance use.
Prefer video? A provider licensed in Texas can see you by video anywhere in the state, which helps if you live far from an office or can't take time off to travel.
Ready to look?
Search licensed Texas providers by city, insurance, focus and language, and see who's taking new clients and who you can book online. Search Texas providers
In an emergency, call 911. In a mental health or substance use crisis, call or text 988, any time. SAMHSA's National Helpline, 1-800-662-4357, is free and confidential.
These guides are general information, not medical, legal or insurance advice.