0 - Tips For Accessing Mental Health Resources

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On this page, you will find descriptions of the different types of mental health support available, questions to ask providers, and tips for your first appointment.

EXAMPLES OF GENERAL QUESTIONS TO ASK PROVIDERS

1. Do you offer [specific service]?

2. Is this service available for ages [age range]?

3. Do you accept my insurance? If not, what is the cost for services? If there!s a copay, when will I be notified?

4. What should I expect during my first appointment/session?

5. Are services provided in person or virtually?

6. Is there a waitlist for any services, and do you have availability now?

- If it is a service for a child, you might want to ask if the provider has after-school availability for services.

- If you need specific availability around work, ask if they have availability for the

times/days you need.

7. Do you have clinicians specializing in [provide a little insight on what kind of

provider/services you want]?

- This would also be the time to share if you have any preferences for providers

(e.g. gender, language, ethnicity, age, etc.)

8. Do you offer transportation assistance?

9. After this initial call, what are the next steps?

Other recommended information to obtain:

1. The agency's address/location.

2. The agency's business hours.

3. If an appointment is made, it is best practice to confirm the time, date and location of the appointment and what supporting materials you may need for the appointment.

PREPARING FOR YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT

Starting something new can feel overwhelming, but being prepared can make your first appointment less stressful and more helpful. Here are some tips to get you ready.

1. Bring What You Need

- Photo ID and insurance card (if you have them).

- A list of medications you take (you can also take a picture of the pill bottle)

- Notebook or phone to jot down notes

- Any notes related to allergies or past side effects from medications

2. Think Ahead

- Is there something you hope to get out of this appointment?

- Any questions you want to ask?

3. Give Yourself Grace

It!s normal to feel nervous before your first visit. Remember:

- You are taking a positive step for your health.

- You don!t need to share everything at once, share what you feel comfortable with, and feel is relevant.

- This is your space - your voice matters.

4. Follow up

- Know when your next appointment is and what the next step is in this process.

TYPES OF SUPPORTIVE SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES

CRISIS STABILIZATION - Short-term services that provide immediate support for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. These programs offer a safe place for assessment, counseling, and stabilization to manage emotional distress or psychiatric symptoms. The goal is to ensure safety, reduce the crisis, and connect individuals with ongoing supports.

INTENSIVE IN-HOME - intensive, time-limited, home-based mental health support for children and adolescents experiencing a crisis or severe emotional/behavioral challenges. These services help stabilize the child across home, school, and community settings, support the whole family, and aim to reduce future hospitalizations or out-of-home placements.

MEDICATION MANAGEMENT - A type of outpatient care where a qualified provider evaluates if medication may be helpful in managing mental health symptoms, prescribes it when needed, and provides ongoing monitoring. This includes checking how well the medication is working, reviewing side effects, and making adjustments to keep the treatment plan safe and effective. The goal is to support stability and positive outcomes for mental health.

MENTORING - Connects individuals with positive role models who provide guidance, encouragement, and support. Mentors help with personal, academic, or professional goals by building confidence and teaching skills. While not focused only on mental health, mentorship can still promote growth, connection, and overall well-being.

MENTAL HEALTH SKILL BUILDING - Supports adults (18+) in learning skills that promote independence, stability, and confidence. Services focus on education, training, and everyday tools to help individuals manage daily life, build self-determination, and reach personal goals.

OUTPATIENT THERAPY - Regular sessions with a licensed therapist, either in person or online, to talk about feelings, cope with stress, and build skills to manage life!s challenges in a safe, supportive environment. Therapy can be individual, group, family, or couples-based, and children may receive specialized formats such as play therapy. Finding the right therapist and type of therapy is important for getting the most support.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT - Services for individuals struggling with alcohol, drug, or other substance use. These services can include counseling, detox, rehabilitation programs, support groups, and sometimes medication to support recovery. Treatment is tailored to each person!s needs, focusing on building coping skills, preventing relapse, and supporting long-term recovery.

SUPPORT GROUPS - Safe, confidential gatherings where people with shared experiences come together to talk, listen, and support one another. Groups are often led by a trained facilitator or peer and focus on connection, coping strategies, and encouragement, helping individuals feel less alone in their challenges.

PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING AND ASSESSMENTS - Formal evaluations that help identify mental health, learning, or developmental needs and guide treatment planning.

APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS (ABA) THERAPY - A structured, individualized approach that helps build positive behaviors and daily skills, especially for individuals with autism. ABA can take place at home, school, or in the community, with the goal of promoting independence and supporting growth in everyday life.

PARENTING SUPPORT AND EDUCATION - Coaching and resources to help parents build skills, strengthen relationships, and support their child!s emotional and behavioral needs.

PEER SUPPORT SERVICES - Support from trained peers who have lived experience with mental health or recovery, offering encouragement and hope.

DISCLAIMER

This is a general guide to supportive services. Each agency may have different approaches, availability, and eligibility requirements. Please contact agencies directly to find the best fit for your needs.