Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL)
The Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL) can connect you directly to clinical help, when and where you need it. Even if you’re not sure what kind of help or treatment you may need, they can help guide you. It’s free, confidential, and no health insurance is required.
Real-time interpretation is available in 200+ languages. Chat and text options are also available.
The Behavioral Health Help Line is a service of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, operated by the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Partnership (MBHP).
For more information, call the helpline at (833) 773-2445, or visit their website by clicking here: https://www.masshelpline.com/
Young Adult Access Centers
Young Adult (YA) Access Centers are unique community spaces that allow young adults with mental health concerns to access services and supports in a timely and effective manner.
The services are free and available to all young adults. No diagnosis is required. Centers are affirming and inclusive spaces that promote an environment that specifically and effectively engages Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning (LGBTQ) young people.
Youth Access Centers are provided in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health.
For more information, visit their website by clicking here: https://www.speakingofhope.org/access-centers/
HandHoldMA
Handhold MA is a resource guide for family partners and parents of kids who are looking for guidance in supporting a child’s mental health and wellbeing. Mental health experts, including child psychiatrists, social workers, and psychologists, selected the most relevant and useful resources.
HandHoldMA is provided by the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health, Office of the Child Advocate, and Executive Office of Health and Human Services.
For more information, visit their website by clicking here: https://handholdma.org/
National Alliance of Mental Illness Massachusetts (NAMI) Compass Helpline
The Compass helpline at NAMI Massachusetts provides information, ideas, resources, and support to help people navigate the complex mental health system and related systems of care. Compass is staffed by people with first-hand experience navigating the mental health system for themselves or a family member.
NAMI also provides support and education programs for parents and caregivers who care for a child with mental health needs.
For more information, call the helpline at (617) 704-6264 or visit their website by clicking here: https://namimass.org/kids/
Office of Youth and Young Adult Services (OYYAS) Directory
Office of Youth and Young Adult Services (OYYAS) created a directory of substance abuse recovery programs that are available to youth across the state. This directory lists programs licensed and/or funded by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
OYYAS is a part of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health Bureau of Substance Abuse Services (BSAS).
For more information, or assistance finding a substance abuse recovery program, call Youth Central Intake Care Coordinator at (617) 661-3991 or view the directory by clicking here: https://www.overdosepreventionstrategies.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/oyyas_directory_digital.pdf
Department of Mental Health Recovery Learning Communities
Recovery Learning Communities (RLCs) are peer-run networks of self-help/peer support, information and referral, advocacy and training activities. Training in trauma-healing, recovery concepts and tools, advocacy forums and social and recreational events are all part of what goes on in an RLC.
RLCs are provided by the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health.
For more information, and to find a local RLC, visit their website by clicking here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/recovery-learning-communities
Parent/Professional Advocacy League (PPAL)
The Parent/Professional Advocacy League (PPAL) is a statewide, grassroots family organization that advocates for improved access to mental health services for children, youth and their families. PPAL’s goals are to support families, nurture parent leaders and work for systems change.
PPAL staff members are trained to support and partner with families. They are primarily family members with lived experience including parents, grandparents, family members and others who have direct experience in raising youth with emotional, behavioral and mental health challenges. They provide support, build advocacy skills, share knowledge and help families connect with resources and services that work for them.
To learn about PPAL, and to request family support, call (617) 542-7860 or visit their website by clicking here: https://ppal.net/
Hey Sam
Hey Sam is a dedicated peer-to-peer texting service for people up to 24 years old. It is designed for and staffed by young people; free and confidential; and non-judgmental.
To contact Hey Sam, text 439-726.
Massachusetts Behavioral Health Access (MABHA) Service Finder
The Massachusetts Behavioral Health Access (MABHA) service finder helps youth and families locate openings in mental health and substance use disorder services.
MABHA is provided by the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Partnership.
For more information, visit their website by clicking here: https://www.mabhaccess.com/CBHI.aspx
Psychology Today
Psychology Today has a search tool that allows you to search for mental health clinicians with filters by insurance, area of concern, location, and more.
To search for a clinician, visit their website by clicking here: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us
Regional Behavioral/Mental Health Resources
UMass LINK-KID
LINK-KID is a centralized referral system to streamline access to care. It provides a single point of access to connect Massachusetts youth (ages 0 to 22) who need evidence-based trauma treatments with mental health professionals trained in them.
LINK-KID aims to ensure kids receive quality treatment as quickly as possible. Children and young adults who need evidence-based treatments (EBTs), child-serving professionals, and caregivers are encouraged to call.
They are currently accepting referrals for youth who are in any of the following categories: aged 16-25, residing in Worcester, involved with a Children's Advocacy Center (CAC) or the Office of the District Attorney (DA), or in foster care.
For more information, visit their website by clicking here: https://www.umassmed.edu/cttc/cttc-services/link-kid/