What does a mental health clinic or program do?
A mental health center is a clinic that offers therapy, medication management, and crisis services in one place. Colorado's community mental health centers serve people regardless of ability to pay. In a crisis, call or text 988.
Last updated November 11, 2026
Find mental health clinics and programs near you
When people see one
- You want therapy and medication care from one clinic.
- You need care and cost is a concern.
- You need help during or after a mental health crisis.
How it differs
Psychiatrist: A psychiatrist is one clinician. A mental health center is a clinic that can include psychiatrists, therapists, and case managers.
Community health center: A community health center offers primary care with some behavioral health. A mental health center focuses on mental health and substance use care.
On 2027 Colorado plans
Do you need a referral? Not on most plans. Kaiser Permanente plans need a referral for some specialists, so ask the insurance company before you book. The other plans don't require one for outpatient mental health care, according to each plan's 2027 summary of benefits.
What a visit costs (the plan's filed "Office Visit - Mental/Behavioral Health" benefit, in network, before any extra savings on silver plans):
- Bronze: $0 to $80 a visit on 25 of 56 plans; on the other 31, you pay toward your deductible or a share of the bill.
- Silver: $0 to $85 a visit on 35 of 58 plans; on the other 23, you pay toward your deductible or a share of the bill.
- Gold: $0 to $90 a visit on 26 of 30 plans; on the other 4, you pay toward your deductible or a share of the bill.
In-network care costs less. Out-of-network visits on an HMO or EPO usually aren't covered except in an emergency.
In Colorado
Public records list 1,477 mental health clinics and programs in Colorado.
- Denver County: 242 locations
- Arapahoe County: 189 locations
- El Paso County: 174 locations
- Jefferson County: 140 locations
- Boulder County: 108 locations
- Larimer County: 99 locations
Counties with the fewest: Washington (1), Sedgwick (1), Saguache (1), Phillips (1), Lincoln (1). 3 counties have none.
Questions to ask the office
- Do you take my 2027 plan? Which plan and network name?
- Do you offer sliding-scale fees if I am uninsured or have a high deductible?
- Do you offer telehealth?
- How long is the wait for a first appointment?