Navigating the Unknown: How Insurance Changes Could Impact Mental Health Care
As a mental health professional and business owner, I’ve spent years working alongside individuals and families navigating life’s most difficult moments. I’ve seen firsthand how access to affordable mental health care can be life-changing — and how a lack of access can be devastating.
Right now, we are facing a period of uncertainty. With the ever-changing political climate, there are growing concerns about what could happen to insurance coverage for mental health services. As someone deeply committed to the well-being of the communities I serve, I believe it’s important to have open, honest conversations about these changes — and how we can prepare.
What’s Happening with Insurance?
While nothing is set in stone yet, proposed legislation and political debates suggest that insurance coverage for mental health services could be at risk. Potential changes may include:
Reduced coverage for therapy and counseling services
Increased out-of-pocket costs for clients
Stricter limitations on the types of care covered
Greater disparities in care for underserved communities
For those already struggling with mental health concerns, these potential barriers could make it even harder to get the help they need — and that’s unacceptable.
The Real-World Impact on Mental Health
The consequences of these changes go beyond policy documents and insurance statements. They hit real people — our neighbors, friends, co-workers, and even ourselves. If access to care becomes more limited or unaffordable, we can expect to see:
Increased rates of untreated anxiety, depression, and trauma
Higher stress levels in families and communities
More mental health crises left unaddressed
Widening gaps in care for marginalized groups, including Black and Brown communities who already face systemic barriers to mental health support
What We’re Doing at ActsCare
At CJL Counseling Services, doing business as Adult and Child Trauma Services, we refuse to sit by and wait for the system to fail our communities. We are actively developing solutions to ensure care remains accessible — regardless of what happens with insurance.
We’ve launched affordable therapy packages , expanded our sliding scale options, and providing pro-bon services that fit the requirement, so individuals can continue to receive quality care even if their insurance changes. We are also exploring partnerships and grant opportunities to further support those in need.
How You Can Prepare
Stay Informed: Follow credible news sources and stay aware of any changes to your insurance plan.
Explore Your Options: Visit www.actscare.org to learn about our therapy packages and flexible payment options.
Advocate for Mental Health: Contact your local representatives and express the importance of protecting mental health coverage.
Share Resources: If you know someone who could benefit from mental health support, encourage them to explore affordable options before they face a crisis.
Your Mental Health Matters — No Matter What
I founded ActsCare and CJL Counseling because I believe everyone deserves access to healing, support, and empowerment — especially during uncertain times. As the landscape of insurance and mental health care shifts, know that we are here, committed to standing with you and advocating for your well-being.
We don’t know exactly what changes are coming, but together, we can face them — prepared, informed, and supported.
With care and resilience,
Elaine Smith
Founder, CJL Counseling Services & ActsCare
