Guide to Becoming a Behavioral Health Services Provider in Indiana


1.Program Definition and Services 

Behavioral Health Services in Indiana encompass a range of mental health and substance use disorder treatments, including: 

  • Individual and group behavioral health counseling and therapy 
  • Family or couple behavioral health counseling and therapy 
  • Crisis intervention 
  • Medication training and support 
  • Skills training and development 
  • Behavioral health rehabilitation services 

 

2. Regulations 

The program is governed by: 

  • Indiana Administrative Code 405 IAC 5-21.5 
  • Indiana Code § 12-17.6-4-2 
  • Indiana Code § 25-23.6 

 

3. Licensing or Certification 

Providers must be licensed or certified based on their specific role: 

  • Licensed professionals (e.g., psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical social workers) 
  • Qualified Behavioral Health Professionals (QBHPs) 
  • Other Behavioral Health Professionals (OBHPs)
  • Specific licenses are issued by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA). 

 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), specifically the Division of Mental Health and Addiction (DMHA), oversees behavioral health services. 

 

5. Application Process 

Providers must: 

  • Obtain appropriate professional licensure through IPLA 
  • Enroll with Indiana Health Coverage Programs (IHCP) 
  • Apply for certification through DMHA if providing substance use disorder treatment 

 

6. Required Documentation 

Providers typically need to submit: 

  • Professional license or certification 
  • Proof of liability insurance 
  • IHCP Provider Agreement 
  • Documentation of staff qualifications 
  • Policies and procedures manual 

 

7. Timeline for Approval 

While exact timelines are not specified, the process involves: 

  • Professional licensure (varies by profession) 
  • IHCP enrollment (up to 30 days after submission) 
  • DMHA certification (if applicable, timeline not specified) 

 

8. Pre-Application Process 

Before applying, providers should: 

  • Obtain necessary education and clinical experience 
  • Ensure compliance with state regulations 
  • Develop policies and procedures for service delivery 

 

9. Pre-Application Training 

No specific pre-application training is mandated. However, providers must meet education and experience requirements for their respective roles. 

 

10. Additional Notes 

  • Services must be based on an individualized integrated care plan 
  • Providers must demonstrate how services benefit the member 
  • As of March 4, 2025, providers should be aware of the implementation of the 9-8-8 suicide and crisis lifeline system in Indiana 
  • Virtual supervision is now allowed for up to 100% of required supervision hours

 

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