Behavioral Health Services in Arizona 


1. Program Definition and Services 

Behavioral Health Services in Arizona are medical services, nursing services, health-related services, or ancillary services provided to address an individual's behavioral health issues. Services include: 

  • Mental health counseling 
  • Psychiatric and psychological services 
  • Opioid Use Disorder Treatment 
  • Assessment and treatment of mental disorders, personality disorders, substance abuse, or significant psychological responses 
  • Psychoeducation 
  • Psychotherapy 

 

2. Regulations 

Behavioral Health Services are governed by Arizona Administrative Code R9-10-501 to 514 and the AHCCCS Medical Policy Manual. 

 

3. Licensing or Certification 

Providers must be licensed by the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners and registered as an AHCCCS provider. 

 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) and the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) oversee Behavioral Health Services.

 

5. Application Process 

Providers can apply through AHCCCS for provider registration. Individuals seeking services can access them through their chosen AHCCCS Complete Care plan. 

 

6. Required Documentation 

Providers may need to submit: 

  • Proof of licensure from the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners 
  • AHCCCS provider registration 
  • Policies and procedures for service delivery 
  • Staff training records 

 

7. Timeline for Approval 

There is no specific information about the timeline for approval of Behavioral Health Services providers. 

 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no explicit mention of a pre-application process. 

 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While specific pre-application training is not mentioned, ongoing staff training and education are required. 

 

10. Additional Notes 

  • As of October 1, 2022, AHCCCS Complete Care Regional Behavioral Health Agreements (ACC-RBHAs) serve individuals determined to have a Serious Mental Illness (SMI). 
  • A single crisis response vendor serves the entire state of Arizona. 
  • Behavioral health services must be provided under the direction of a licensed behavioral health professional or a psychiatrist. 
  • The term "substance abuse" has been replaced with "addiction" across multiple statutes, affecting the names of certain licensed professionals. 
  • The practice of addiction counseling has been updated and expanded in its definition. 
  • Telehealth services are included in the provision of behavioral health services. 

 

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