Question
Does SHA cover mental health and counselling in Kenya?
Plain-language answer for people in Kenya searching "SHA mental health cover". For clinical review before publication.
- Audience
- Patients
- Topic
- Mental health
- Reviewed
- Oct 23, 2026
- Medical reviewer
- Independent clinical reviewer, Registered mental health clinician, Kenya
Quick answer
Yes. In 2025 the Ministry of Health announced that mental health services are part of the Social Health Authority (SHA) benefits package, including outpatient consultation, counselling, inpatient care and rehabilitation for substance use. What you can use depends on whether the facility is SHA-contracted and on current benefit limits, so confirm with the facility before your appointment.
On this page
What the SHA mental health cover includes
The Ministry of Health has said the cover spans outpatient consultation and counselling, inpatient management of mental health conditions, and rehabilitation for drug and substance use. This is the first time mental health has been formally included in Kenya's national health insurance.
How to use SHA for mental health care
Steps
- Make sure your SHA registration and contributions are up to date.
- Ask the clinic or hospital whether it is contracted by SHA for mental health services.
- Ask which services are covered and whether pre-authorisation is needed.
- Carry your ID and any referral letter to the appointment.
- Keep receipts and ask how any amount not covered will be charged.
Provider pathway
Find the right care path
Patient content should guide people toward provider discovery, appointment preparation, or related guidance.
Provider pathway cards will appear here when provider discovery data is available. Until then, patient pages should continue to point to preparation and access guidance.
Related questions
Read next
Recommendations prioritise manual related articles, then shared topic and audience.
How can I get mental health support for my child or teenager in Kenya?
Plain-language answer for people in Kenya searching "child therapist Kenya". For clinical review before publication.
How do I book a therapy appointment online in Kenya?
Plain-language answer for people in Kenya searching "book therapist online Kenya". For clinical review before publication.
How do I check if a counsellor or psychologist is registered in Kenya?
Plain-language answer for people in Kenya searching "registered counsellor Kenya". For clinical review before publication.
How do I know if I need therapy?
Plain-language answer for people in Kenya searching "do I need therapy". For clinical review before publication.
FAQs
Common questions
FAQs are written for readers first and only use structured data if visible content supports it.
Does SHA cover private therapists?
Only if the therapist or practice is contracted by SHA. Many private counsellors are not, so ask before booking.
Does SHA cover rehab for alcohol and drugs?
The Ministry of Health has said rehabilitation for drug and substance use is part of the mental health benefits. Confirm limits with the facility.
What replaced NHIF for mental health?
NHIF was replaced by the Social Health Authority (SHA). Older information that mentions NHIF cover may no longer apply.