Finding the right mental health support for a child can feel overwhelming. We've organized these resources to help parents, caregivers, educators, and professionals access immediate support and long-term care options for children and teens experiencing mental health challenges.
Immediate Crisis Support
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, confidential, free, 24/7/365 help is available.
- Call or text 988
-
Chat at 988lifeline.org
- TTY users can use their preferred relay service or dial 711, then 988
Alternative Crisis Support Options
Crisis Text Line
Specialized Crisis Support for Youth
Finding Professional Help for Your Child
Finding a Child Therapist
While psychiatrists prescribe medication and psychologists do testing, therapists provide most ongoing counseling for children. Finding the right therapist can be challenging since there's no single national directory.
You can start your search with the following:
- Contact your insurance provider for a list of in-network child therapists (most have online provider directories).
- Ask your child's pediatrician for referrals - they may know local therapists who work well with children.
- Check with your child's school counselor for community recommendations.
- Local children's hospitals often maintain child therapy referral lists.
Telehealth and Virtual Therapy Options
Virtual therapy has become widely available and can expand your options.
-
Ask about telehealth - When contacting therapists, ask if they offer virtual sessions. Many child therapists now provide telehealth as a regular option.
-
Insurance coverage - Most insurance plans now cover telehealth services the same as in-person visits. Verify coverage when checking benefits.
-
Expanded search area - Since most states allow therapists to see patients anywhere within the state via telehealth, you can search beyond your immediate area. A child in a rural area can potentially work with a specialist in a major city within the same state.
-
Hybrid options - Many therapists offer a combination of in-person and virtual sessions, providing flexibility for busy families.
Benefits for children: Virtual therapy can be less intimidating for some children who may feel more comfortable starting therapy from home. However, ensure your child has a private, quiet space for sessions.
Additional Child Mental Health Specialists
Questions to Ask When Seeking Help
- Does the provider specialize in children/adolescents?
- What experience do they have with your child's specific concerns?
- What treatment approaches do they use?
- How do they involve parents/caregivers in treatment?
- Do they accept your insurance?
School-Based Support Resources
For Parents - Advocating for Your Child at School
- Request a meeting with your school's counselor or psychologist
- Ask about available mental health services and supports
- Inquire about 504 plans or IEP evaluations if needed
- Learn about your school district's mental health policies
Treatment and Intervention Information
Evidence-Based Treatments for Children
Understanding treatment options helps you make informed decisions.
Parent and Caregiver Support
Online Support Communities
Parent Support Hotlines
Supporting Your Child's Mental Health Daily
Beyond crisis intervention and treatment, these protective factors help build resilience.
-
Consistent routines - Regular bedtimes, mealtimes, and daily schedules provide stability.
-
Open communication - Create safe spaces for children to express feelings without judgment.
-
Social connections - Encourage healthy friendships and family relationships.
-
Physical activity - Regular exercise and outdoor play support mental wellness.
-
Limit screen time - Balance digital activities with in-person interactions.
-
Model healthy coping - Children learn emotional regulation by watching adults manage stress.
Insurance and Financial Resources
Getting Coverage for Mental Health Care
-
Understanding Your Benefits: Contact your insurance provider to understand mental health coverage
-
Medicaid/CHIP Enrollment: Visit HealthCare.gov for enrollment information
-
Community Health Centers: Find low-cost care at HRSA health centers
Financial Assistance Programs
- Many therapists offer sliding scale fees based on income
- Ask providers about payment plans
- Check if your employer offers an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- University psychology training clinics often offer low-cost therapy
Basic Needs Support
When families are struggling with basic needs, it can impact children's mental health. Additional help is available.
-
211 Helpline - Call 211 or text your ZIP code to 898211, or visit 211.org for free, confidential help finding local resources for food, housing, utilities, and other essential services (available 24/7 in most areas).
- Many mental health providers can connect you with case managers who help coordinate both mental health care and basic needs support.
Tools and Resources Available at Mental Health Center Kids
Mental Health Center Kids offers evidence-based resources designed for parents, educators, and mental health professionals.
Additional National Resources
Trusted Organizations for Children's Mental Health
Condition-Specific Organizations
When to Seek Immediate Help
If a child shows any of these signs, seek immediate professional help:
- Talking about wanting to die or suicide
- Looking for ways to kill themselves
- Extreme mood swings or sudden behavior changes
- Withdrawing from family and friends completely
- Expressing feelings of hopelessness or having no purpose
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Acting recklessly or engaging in self-harm
For crisis support, call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. If there is immediate danger, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
