If your child is struggling with big emotions or behaviors that are getting in the way at home, at school, or with friends, you are not alone, and there is real help. One of the most practical kinds of support for Iowa families is BHIS, or Behavioral Health Intervention Services. It is a skills-based program funded through Iowa Medicaid, and it meets your child where they already are: your home, their school, or one of our offices.
This guide explains what BHIS is, who it is for, and how to get started. Reaching out for help is a normal, healthy step, not a last resort.
What is BHIS?
Behavioral Health Intervention Services is one-on-one, skills-building support for children and teens. Instead of a diagnosis-and-done appointment, a trained BHIS provider works alongside your child over time to build practical skills: managing strong feelings, handling frustration, following routines, getting along with others, and doing better in school and at home.
BHIS is funded through Iowa Medicaid (Title 19), so for families whose child qualifies, there is typically little or no out-of-pocket cost. It is designed to work with your family, not around it, so caregivers are part of the plan.
Who is BHIS for?
BHIS is generally for children and teens, often around ages 4 to 17, who:
- are covered by Iowa Medicaid, and
- have a diagnosed mental health condition confirmed through an assessment, and
- are dealing with emotional or behavioral challenges that affect daily life at home, school, or in the community.
What does a BHIS provider actually do?
The work is hands-on and built around your child's real life. Depending on the plan, a BHIS provider may:
- meet with your child in your home, at their school, in our office, or in the community;
- teach and practice coping skills for anger, anxiety, and frustration;
- help with routines, transitions, and following expectations;
- work on social skills and healthy communication;
- coach caregivers so the progress continues after each visit.
The goal is steady, practical progress: a child who can manage their own behavior a little better each week, and a family with more tools and less stress.
What BHIS is not
It helps to be clear about the edges. BHIS is skills-building support, not a replacement for therapy when therapy is needed, and it is not a crisis service.
How to get started in southern Iowa
Getting started is simpler than most parents expect:
- Reach out. Call us at (641) 856-2688 or use the scheduling options on our contact page.
- We check coverage. We verify your child's Iowa Medicaid benefits up front, so there are no surprises.
- The assessment. A mental health assessment confirms whether BHIS is the right fit and shapes the plan.
- Support begins. A provider starts working with your child where it helps most: at home, at school, or in our office.
We serve families across southern Iowa from our offices in Centerville, Ottumwa, and Bloomfield.
Frequently asked questions
Does Iowa Medicaid cover BHIS?
BHIS is funded through Iowa Medicaid, so for eligible children there is typically little or no out-of-pocket cost. We verify your specific benefits before services begin.
How old does my child need to be?
BHIS generally serves children and teens in roughly the 4 to 17 range, though needs vary. The assessment is what determines the right fit.
Where do the sessions happen?
Wherever they help most: your home, your child's school, our office, or the community. That flexibility is part of what makes BHIS effective.
Do I have to have a diagnosis already?
No. A mental health assessment is part of getting started, and we walk you through it. You do not need to have everything figured out before you call.
Do you serve my area?
We work with families throughout southern Iowa from our Centerville, Ottumwa, and Bloomfield offices. Call and we will confirm we can help.
Disclaimer: This article is general education, not medical advice, and does not create a provider relationship. Eligibility for BHIS is determined through an assessment and Iowa Medicaid criteria.