Wethersfield Therapist Accused of $140K Medicaid Fraud Scheme

BREAKING: A Wethersfield therapist has been arrested for allegedly submitting more than $140,000 in fraudulent Medicaid claims for counseling sessions that never occurred. Ivette Betancourt, 60, was taken into custody on October 22, 2023, by the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, according to the Connecticut Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ).

This alarming case highlights a significant breach of trust as Betancourt, a licensed marital and family therapist, is charged with one count of first-degree larceny and one count of health insurance fraud—both Class B felonies that could lead to up to 20 years in prison.

Authorities report that between October 2020 and June 2025, Betancourt billed Medicaid for therapy sessions that “did not take place.” The investigation revealed numerous discrepancies after inspectors reviewed records for 38 of Betancourt’s 138 Medicaid patients. Her fraudulent billing resulted in payments totaling $141,087.35 that she was not entitled to receive.

“Betancourt submitted claims to Medicaid for these unrendered sessions,”

the warrant affidavit states, revealing the serious nature of the allegations against her.

Following her arrest, Betancourt was released on a $10,000 non-surety bond and is scheduled to appear in New Britain Superior Court on December 17, 2023. The DCJ has credited the investigation to the collaboration of several agencies, including the Connecticut Department of Social Services and the Newington Police Department.

This case raises urgent questions about the integrity of healthcare billing practices and the potential impact on legitimate Medicaid beneficiaries. As investigations continue, the community is left to grapple with the implications of such fraud on public resources.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as it unfolds. The Medicaid Fraud Control Unit remains vigilant in its efforts to combat healthcare fraud, emphasizing the importance of accountability among providers.

The investigation serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of fraudulent activities in the healthcare system, urging both professionals and patients alike to remain vigilant.