New Benefit Category: Medicare defines Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) and Mental Health Counselors

Published 12/28/2023

New Benefit Category: Medicare defines Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) and Mental Health Counselors
Section 4121 of Division FF of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 (CAA, 2023), establishes a new Medicare benefit category for MFT and MHC services furnished by and directly billed by MFTs and MHCs. Payment for MFT and MHC services under Part B of the Medicare program will begin January 1, 2024.

How does Medicare define MFTs? 
Section 4121 Division FF of the CAA, 2023, defines MFT services as services for the diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses (other than services furnished to an inpatient of a hospital). An MFT is an individual who: 

  • Possesses a master’s or doctorate degree which qualifies for licensure or certification as a MFT under State law of the State in which such individual furnishes marriage and family therapist services
  • Is licensed or certified as an MFT by the State in which they furnish services
  • Has performed at least 2 years of clinical supervised experience in marriage and family therapy or mental health counseling after obtaining the degree referenced above, and 
  • Meets other requirements as the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) determines appropriate

How does Medicare define MHCs? 
Section 4121 Division FF of the CAA, 2023, defines MHC services as services for the diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses (other than services furnished to an inpatient of a hospital). An MHC is an individual who: 

  • Possesses a master’s or doctorate degree which qualifies for licensure or certification as a MHC, clinical professional counselor, or professional counselor under State law of the State in which such individual furnishes MHC service
  • Is licensed or certified as an MHC, clinical professional counselor, or professional counselor by the State in which they furnish services
  • Has performed at least 2 years of clinical supervised experience in marriage and family therapy or mental health counseling after obtaining the degree referenced above, and 
  • Meets other requirements as the Secretary of HHS determines appropriate

Resource: 
Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT) and Mental Health Counselors (MHC) Provider Enrollment Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  (PDF)


Was this article helpful?