Missouri mental health care, common questions answered

Yes. MO HealthNet covers a range of mental health services, including therapy, psychiatry and medication, and it can cover certain advanced treatments for treatment-resistant depression when medically necessary. Coverage details and prior authorization rules vary, so confirm with the specific provider and your plan before your first visit.

Treatment-resistant depression usually means you have tried two or more antidepressants at an adequate dose and for a long enough time without meaningful relief. It is common and does not mean you are out of options. It often signals that it is time to look beyond standard medications, at treatments such as TMS or Spravato. Our guide on the signs of treatment-resistant depression goes deeper.

TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) uses magnetic pulses to stimulate mood-related areas of the brain during short in-office sessions over several weeks, with no medication and no anesthesia. Spravato (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray given in a certified, monitored medical setting where staff watch you for a couple of hours after each dose. Both are used mainly for depression that has not responded to standard medication. See our types of care page for a fuller explanation.

Not always. Some clinics accept self-referrals and will handle the evaluation and insurance authorization themselves, while others prefer a referral from your current doctor. Because your own doctor's input carries weight with both you and your insurer, it helps to talk with them first, but you can also call a specialty clinic directly to ask how they handle intake.

Start with your region, since most care, especially in-person treatments, works best close to home. This directory groups providers by area such as St. Louis and St. Charles, Kansas City, Central Missouri and Southwest Missouri. Pick your region, match the type of care you think you need, then call to confirm insurance and wait times.

No. Missouri Mental Health Directory is an independent, plain-language guide, not a clinic. We do not provide treatment, diagnoses or referrals on anyone's behalf. You contact providers directly to confirm services, credentials and insurance and to schedule care.

If you are in crisis or thinking about suicide, you do not need to use a directory first. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline any time, go to your nearest emergency room, or call 911 if someone is in immediate danger.