Are you in a crisis?

If you need help right call 988. Crisis counselors are available to help you through this moment.

You can also reach The Trevor Project crisis hotline, specializing in the LGBTQ+ community, at 1-866-488-7386. The National Sexual Assault Hotline is available at 1-800-656-4673, and the National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-7233.

The International Association for Suicide Prevention has information about crisis hotlines outside of the United States.

You can also try Koko for help finding crisis support.

Looking for a mental health professional?

It can be a tricky process to find a therapist you connect with, has a background and expertise that match your needs, and works within your budget or insurance. Here are some things that can make the process easier: 

Ask a healthcare provider you already know. They are probably connected to therapists in your area.

1. Call your insurance provider or search their directory. Try to get at least three names from your insurance as some therapists might be full and not accepting new patients. 

2. If you’re a college student, go to your university’s counseling center. Most offer free or reduced rate services and are located right on campus.

3. Ask friends and family if they know a therapist that they like. Even if that therapist isn’t available, they might know someone who is.

4. Search an online directory. For a cognitive behavioral therapist, we recommend the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies. For anxiety and mood problems, visit the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. For a culturally responsive therapist, consider Therapy for Black Girls, Therapy for Black Men, Melanin and Mental Health, and Ayana Therapy, South Asian Therapists, and South Asian Mental Health Initiative. For an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist, visit Gaylesta. For a larger database of therapists, see Psychology Today’s directory.

For help navigating the process of finding a therapist, call the National Alliance on Mental Illness helpline at 1-800-950-6264 or SAMHSA’s helpline at 1-800-662-4357. 

Here’s a step by step guide I made about finding a therapist.

Want to join a support group?

The National Alliance on Mental Illness runs free weekly support groups in many parts of the country. Mental Health America also maintains a guide to a variety of support groups related to specific problem areas. 

Want to learn more about mental health?

I love the JED Foundation’s mental health resource center. There’s a lot of great stuff there plus links to even more resources and organizations. I’m also a big fan of Mental Health America, particularly their online screening tools.