How Referrals Work

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StrongSteps Behavioral Health accepts referrals from individuals, families, community providers, and Health Home Care Managers. Our goal is to make the referral process simple, transparent, and easy to understand.
Medicaid authorization support

Who Can Make a Referral

Referrals may be submitted by:

  • Individuals seeking services for themselves

  • Family members or support persons

  • Therapists, counselors, and outpatient providers

  • Hospitals or crisis programs

  • Health Home Care Managers

  • Community agencies working with the individual

Behavioral health referral steps illustration

Medicaid Eligibility & Authorization

Most services we provide require Medicaid authorization before they can begin.

Important:
Most services require prior authorization. StrongSteps cannot begin services until authorization is approved.

During the referral process, we work with the individual and their Care Manager (if applicable) to gather the information needed to submit an authorization request.

Behavioral health referral steps illustration

What Happens After a Referral Is Submitted

Once we receive a referral:

  1. We contact the individual to introduce StrongSteps and confirm interest.

  2. We review Medicaid eligibility and determine what services are allowed.

  3. We submit or request authorization when required by the individual’s plan.

  4. We confirm approval before scheduling the first service visit.

We keep Care Managers and referral sources informed throughout the process (with consent).

How Long Does It Take?

Once we receive a referral:

  1. We contact the individual to introduce StrongSteps and confirm interest.

  2. We review Medicaid eligibility and determine what services are allowed.

  3. We submit or request authorization when required by the individual’s plan.

  4. We confirm approval before scheduling the first service visit.

We keep Care Managers and referral sources informed throughout the process (with consent).

Need Help With a Referral?

If you’re unsure which services are appropriate or what information is needed, we can help guide you through the process.

Contact us for assistance or to submit a referral.

 

Crisis Support: Call or text 988

Emergencies: 911

© 2026 StrongSteps Behavioral Health

StrongSteps Behavioral Health provides non-clinical, recovery-oriented services. Some services are provided directly by StrongSteps, while others are offered in collaboration with partner agencies or are pending authorization and contracts. Services are subject to eligibility and prior authorization where required.