How Colorado’s FAMLI+ Program Is Changing Access to Mental Health Leave
Taking time off to care for your mental health has historically been a privilege, something only available to people with generous employer benefits or financial flexibility. But in Colorado, that’s no longer the case.
The state’s Family and Medical Leave Insurance program (FAMLI), and specifically the My FAMLI+ system, is opening the door for more people to access paid time off for both physical and mental health needs.
Let’s break down what this means, and how you can actually use it.
What Is FAMLI+?
Colorado’s FAMLI program is a state-run paid leave benefit that allows workers to take time off for major life and health events without losing their income.
Eligible individuals can receive:
Up to 12 weeks of paid leave per year
Partial wage replacement during that time
Job protection in many cases (Family and Medical Leave Insurance)
Through the My FAMLI+ portal, individuals can apply, manage, and track their leave claims.
Originally, programs like this were associated with parental leave or serious medical conditions, but FAMLI+ is much broader. It includes leave to care for your own health, which can include mental health conditions when properly evaluated and documented.
Who Can Use It? (More People Than You Think)
One of the most powerful aspects of FAMLI+ is how inclusive it is.
1. Traditional Employees
Most Colorado workers qualify once they’ve earned at least $2,500 in wages within a set time period (Family and Medical Leave Insurance).
That means:
Full-time employees
Part-time workers
Seasonal workers
Even better: FAMLI+ is available regardless of company size, unlike traditional unpaid leave programs.
2. People Without Paid Leave Benefits
If your job doesn’t offer: Paid sick leave, Mental health days, Extended medical leave, FAMLI+ can effectively fill that gap.
Unlike federal FMLA (which is unpaid), FAMLI+ provides paid leave, so you’re not forced to choose between your health and your paycheck (Family and Medical Leave Insurance).
This is especially impactful for service industry workers, gig economy workers, startup employees, and small business staff.
3. Self-Employed & Independent Workers
Yes, you can give yourself paid time off.
Self-employed individuals, freelancers, and contractors can opt into the FAMLI program by paying premiums and reporting income. Once enrolled, they can access the same paid leave benefits as traditional employees (Family and Medical Leave Insurance).
This is a game changer for:
Therapists in private practice
Creatives and freelancers
Consultants and coaches
Small business owners
Instead of losing all income during a burnout or health crisis, you can plan for and receive income while you rest and recover.
How Hope & Healing Mental Health Collective Helps
This is where Hope & Healing Mental Health Collective becomes an essential partner in the process.
Their role includes:
Conducting a clinical evaluation of your mental health
Determining whether your condition qualifies under FAMLI+ guidelines
Providing the necessary documentation to support your leave
Helping you initiate the My FAMLI+ application process
What the Process Looks Like
Schedule an evaluation with Hope & Healing Mental Health Collective
Receive a clinical assessment and recommendation
Get documentation supporting your need for leave
Begin your leave and receive wage replacement benefits
You can even apply up to 30 days in advance of your leave start date (Family and Medical Leave Insurance).
And with support from Hope & Healing Mental Health Collective, you don’t have to navigate it alone, you can take the first step toward rest, recovery, and sustainable wellbeing.
If you’ve been putting off taking time for your mental health because you “can’t afford it,” it may be time to take another look. With FAMLI+, you might not have to choose anymore. Schedule your assessment appointment today.