At Core Values Counseling, we want you to know one thing above all else: we care about your mental health. Our deepest desire has always been to make counseling accessible, safe, and supportive for as many people as possible. That’s why the recent changes to Oregon Health Plan (OHP) coverage have been so heartbreaking — not just for us as providers, but for the many clients who are impacted.
Last week, Eric and I communicated the following to our OHP clients, and we’re sharing it here for you to have as a permanent resource as you navigate next steps:
As of October 1, 2025, the Oregon Health Plan (OHP – CareOregon/HealthShare ) will no longer cover care with “out-of-network” therapists or group practices like Core Values Counseling. Unfortunately, our requests to join OHP networks have been denied due to closed provider panels. We know this is difficult news and want to support you as best we can.
Your options:
- We can refer you to one of our intern counselors who offer a sliding scale.
- You may also talk with your current therapist about a reduced private-pay rate if that feels possible.
- Call OHP (the grievance line on your card) and let them know you’d like Core Values Counseling to be allowed in-network with CareOregon/Healthshare.
- Ask about “open card/fee-for-service.” Call OHA at 1-800-273-0557 and see if you can move only your behavioral health coverage to an open card. If approved, you could continue seeing your counselor here.
- Explore other providers. Waitlists can be long, but here are some resources:
Your counselor can continue meeting with you through September 2025. Please call us at 541-283-0716 to review scheduling options.
We know this change is stressful. Clients who have been faithfully showing up for their care may suddenly lose access.
We know how destabilizing that feels. Counseling is not just another appointment on the calendar — it’s often a lifeline. To face the possibility of interruption or loss in that support can be overwhelming. Please hear us: you are not alone in this. We want to help you find the best path forward.
If you’re reading this for the first time, this can be a lot to process, so we’ll reiterate — here’s what we want you to know:
- You do have options. Whether that’s being connected with one of our skilled intern counselors at a sliding scale, exploring reduced private-pay rates, or pursuing an “open card” through OHA, we will walk with you as you explore the next best step.
- Your voice matters. If you’re frustrated by these changes, we encourage you to call OHP and let them know you want Core Values Counseling to be allowed in-network. Advocacy from clients can make a real difference.
- Support is still out there. We’ve compiled a list of additional resources and organizations who may be able to step in if needed. We’ll do everything we can to guide you toward ongoing care.
We also know this situation shines a light on a much bigger problem: the systemic barriers that make accessing mental health care unnecessarily complicated. These are the kinds of hurdles that prevent people from getting the help they desperately need — and that, in truth, can cost lives.
Eric and I understand firsthand how absolutely critical barrier-free access to mental health care is. For us, it’s deeply personal. Our own son has a story that could have turned out much differently had he not gotten the care he needed.
Earlier this month, KGW featured us in a story about our family and our advocacy:
View the KGW Video, and read the article here.
We’re committed to continuing this fight, not just for our practice, but for the many individuals and families across Oregon who deserve access to care. In the meantime, we’ll keep doing what we’ve always done: offering compassion, hope, and a safe place to heal.
If you have questions or need support in navigating this transition, please call us at 541-283-0716. We’re here for you.
Photo by Matt Seymour on Unsplash
