What mental health services does TRICARE cover?
You can receive behavioral health care from any provider that is TRICARE authorized. Types of providers that may be covered include:
- Psychiatrists
- Clinical psychologists
- Certified psychiatric nurse specialists
- Clinical social workers
- Certified marriage and family therapists
Types of mental health care can be received in a variety of ways, including, but not limited to:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Family or couple’s therapy
If I am a family member, do I need a referral to receive behavioral health care?
No, you do not need a referral for the first eight outpatient behavioral health visits at a network approved provider, per fiscal year which is October 1 – September 30.
If you want to see your behavioral health provider again for a ninth visit, you must obtain a referral and prior authorization from your Primary Care Manager or TRICARE Area Office.
Health Net Federal Services realizes the extra support families stationed to the most deployed division of the Army might need. They have created the Mountain Community Behavioral health Clinic at 102 Nash Blvd on Fort Drum. The telephone number is (315) 773-9640. The clinic is specifically targeted to the non-active duty TRICARE beneficiaries.
If I am an active duty soldier, do I need a referral to receive behavioral health care?
As an active duty service member, you must always seek care from Fort Drum providers first. Active duty have two convenient locations where they may obtain care at the Fort Drum Behavioral Health Department on post or at the Fort Drum / Samaritan Behavioral Health Clinic in Watertown (165 Coleman Ave.). These services do not require a referral.
If access is not available at either location, then your primary care provider may refer you to a civilian behavioral health office.
What if a family member needs long term care due to a mental disability?
The TRICARE Extended Care Health Option replaces the Program for Persons with Disabilities (PFPWD). TRICARE ECHO provides financial assistance to active duty family members who qualify based on specific mental or physical disabilities and offers an integrated set of services and supplies beyond the basic TRICARE program. You can contact the Exceptional Family Member Program at Army Community Services on Fort Drum for more information about this program at (315) 772-5476.
Where can I find a provider that accepts TRICARE in Jefferson County?
Most providers in Jefferson County accept TRICARE, but it is important to ask when making an appointment. Drum Country offers a list of TRICARE approved providers or you can search for a provider or facility at the TRICARE Provider Directory.
Who can I talk to for more information about TRICARE?
There are offices on Fort Drum to help you navigate TRICARE for your specific questions. Here are just a few:
| Health Benefits Advisor | (315)772-5111 |
| Debt Collection Officer | (315)772-4039 |
| Patient Advocate | (315)772-4655 |
| Patient Services Information | (315)772-7597 |
| Health Net Federal Services | 1-877-874-2273 |
Links for TRICARE Behavioral Health Information
TRICARE Behavioral Health Care Services for TRICARE Prime Beneficiaries
TRICARE Behavioral Health Care Services for TRICARE Standard Beneficiaries



