How To Get Affordable State Sponsored Therapy in Ohio
Many people don’t realize that publicly-funded mental health services are available in their state. People looking for free or low-cost counseling often think their only options are counselors in private practice and don’t know that publicly-funded providers in their communities may also offer counseling services.
While state-based programs are not for everyone, they are often a great place to start for people who face geographic or financial barriers to therapy. Intake specialists at community mental health programs can help people learn whether they qualify for state-funded services and can refer people who don’t qualify to other low-cost programs that may be able to meet their needs.
On This Page
- When Should You Go to a State Mental Health Program?
- Who Is Eligible for Public Mental Health Services in Ohio?
- How Can You Find Out More About Local Programs in Ohio?
- Adams, Lawrence, and Scioto County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Allen, Auglaize, and Hardin County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Ashland County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Ashtabula County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Athens, Hocking, and Vinton County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Belmont, Harrison, and Monroe County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Brown County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Butler County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Carroll and Tuscarawas County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Clark, Greene, and Madison County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Clermont County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Clinton and Warren County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Columbiana County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Coshocton, Guernsey, Morgan, Muskingum, Noble, and Perry County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Crawford and Marion County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Cuyahoga County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Darke, Miami, and Shelby County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Defiance, Fulton, Henry, and Williams County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Delaware and Morrow County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Erie and Ottawa County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Fairfield County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Fayette, Highland, Pickaway, Pike, and Ross County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Franklin County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Gallia, Jackson, and Meigs County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Geauga County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Hamilton County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Hancock County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Holmes and Wayne County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Huron County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Jefferson County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Lake County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Licking and Knox County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Logan and Champaign County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Lorain County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Lucas County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Mahoning County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Medina County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Mercer, Paulding, and Van Wert County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Montgomery County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Portage County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Preble County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Putnam County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Richland County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Seneca, Sandusky, and Wyandot County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Stark County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Summit County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Trumbull County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Union County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Washington County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Wood County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Federally Qualified Health Centers
- How Does Ohio's Public Mental Health System Work?
When Should You Go to a State Mental Health Program?
Few mental health providers outside of those in the public sector are able to immediately serve people in crisis. This usually makes community mental health programs the best option for anyone having a mental health crisis who needs help right away. The people who answer local crisis lines provide immediate support and caring attention as they help people determine the best response to a crisis, whether it’s inpatient treatment or an appointment with a counselor.
In many cases, community mental health programs serve as alternative providers for people who lack the means to access services in the private sector. However, Ohio’s multifaceted system includes small private practices as well as large non-profits and blurs the lines between the public and private sectors. Many county databases list specialized providers and programs that can meet the needs of many people, including people with moderate mental health needs who want to work with a therapist.
Overall, county phone lines and online search tools are a great starting point for anyone looking for local mental health services in Ohio. People who try these tools and still aren’t finding what they need can search for free or low-cost counselors on OpenCounseling.com or try affordable online counseling with BetterHelp (a sponsor of OpenCounseling).
Even though Mental Health America ranks Ohio 9 out of 51 states (including the District of Columbia) for access to mental health care, many people in Ohio still don’t get the care they need. Only 47 percent of Ohioans with mental health conditions get treatment for them. Finding mental health care can be harder for people living in rural areas who aren’t aware that they have mental health resources nearby. If you’re living in Ohio and need mental health care, it’s worth taking the time to learn about options in your county—the help you need may only be a short distance away.
Who Is Eligible for Public Mental Health Services in Ohio?
Across the country, state-funded mental health services prioritize access for people with serious mental health conditions that impair their functioning and put them at risk of hospitalization. However, because Ohio state agencies fund independent local providers instead of directly providing services, eligibility requirements vary from county to county and program to program. Many publicly-funded providers in Ohio’s public mental health system offer counseling services to people with moderate mental health needs.
In Ohio, ADAMH Boards determine whether people qualify for state financial assistance, but they don’t assess clinical eligibility like their counterparts in other states. Instead, they provide referrals to local programs for further assessment. In many cases, people who don’t qualify for public funds can still access counseling and other community mental health services. Some contracted providers accept private insurance plans or offer sliding scale fees to people without insurance, Medicaid, or state funding.
Ohio crisis lines and crisis response services are open to all people experiencing a mental health crisis regardless of their mental health history or ability to pay.
How Can You Find Out More About Local Programs in Ohio?
The best way to find out about publicly-funded programs in Ohio is to contact your local ADAMH board. Staff who answer information and crisis lines can talk to you about the level of care you need and make recommendations.
You can also browse lists of local providers on directory pages provided by the Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities and Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.
Below, you will find a list of contact and crisis numbers for every county board in Ohio, as well as lists of local outpatient mental health providers featured on county websites and the Ohio Network of Care directory page.
Adams, Lawrence, and Scioto County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Adams-Lawrence-Scioto ADAMHS Board
- Main numbers: (740) 354-5648 or (888) 354-5648
- Crisis line: (740) 354-1010 or (855) 381-1010
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- The Counseling Center: (740) 354-6685 or (800) 577-6685
- Family Recovery Services:
- West Union Counseling Office: (937) 779-3030
- Hillsboro Counseling Office: (937) 393-9720
- Hopesource: (740) 353-4673
- Ironton/Lawrence County Family Guidance Center: (740) 414-2247
- Mended Reeds Mental Health: (740) 532-1613
- Shawnee Family Health Center: (740) 354-7702
- Adams County Clinic: (937) 544-5581
- Lawrence County Clinic: (740) 533-0648
- Scioto County Clinic: (740) 354-7702
Allen, Auglaize, and Hardin County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Mental Health and Recovery Board of Allen, Auglaize, and Hardin Counties
- Main number: (419) 222-5120
- Crisis line: (800) 567-4673
- Contracted and Network of Care outpatient providers:
- Behavioral Health Center of Lima: (419) 222-1527
- Coleman Services:
- (419) 675-2243 (Kenton)
- (419) 229-2222 (Lima)
- (419) 300-7630 (St. Marys)
- (567) 356-4400 (Wapakoneta)
- Family Resource Center:
- (419) 679-1219 (Kenton)
- (800) 472-5279 (Lima)
- (419) 394-7451 (St. Marys)
- Lutheran Social Services of Northwestern Ohio: (419) 243-9178
- Mercy Health – BHI St. Rita’s Psychiatry: (419) 996-5033
Ashland County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Ashland County Mental Health and Recovery Board
- Main number: (419) 281-3139
- Crisis line: (419) 289-6111
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Appleseed Community Mental Health Center: (419) 281-3716
- Ashland County Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse: (419) 289-7675
- Catholic Charities of Ashland County: (419) 289-1903
- Family Life Counseling: (419) 774-9969
- Ground Work Play Therapy: (419) 289-4825
Ashtabula County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Ashtabula County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board
- Main number: (440) 992-3121
- Crisis line: (800) 577-7849
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Community Counseling Center: (440) 998-4210 or (800) 998-4210
- Family Pride of Northeast Ohio: (440) 536-5680 (Ashtabula Office)
- Lake Area Recovery Center: (440) 998-0722
- Signature Health Recovery Services:
- (440) 992-8552 (Ashtabula)
- (216) 831-6466 (Beachwood)
- (216) 766-6080 (Lakewood)
- (216) 663-6100 (Maple Heights)
- (440) 853-1501 (Painesville)
- (440) 953-9999 (Willoughby)
Athens, Hocking, and Vinton County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Athens-Hocking-Vinton ADAMHS Board
- Main number (Athens County): (740) 593-3177
- Main number (Hocking County): (740) 385-3317
- Main number: (Vinton County): (740) 596-2649
- Crisis line (Hopewell Health Centers): (740) 593-3344 or (888) 475-8484
- Network of Care outpatient providers:
- Health Recovery Services: (740) 592-6720
- (740) 698-0131 (Albany Clinic)
- (740) 592-6720 (Athens Clinic)
- (740) 446-7010 (Gallia Clinic)
- (740) 380-6354 (Hocking Grey Street Clinic)
- (740) 385-9895 (Hocking Spring Street Clinic)
- (740) 577-3492 (Jackson Clinic)
- (740 992-5277 (Meigs Clinic)
- (740) 753-4811 (Nelsonville Clinic)
- (740) 596-2542 (Vinton Clinic)
- Hopewell Health Centers:
- (740) 593-3344 or (888) 475-8484 (crisis line)
- (740) 592-3091 (Athens County Behavioral Health Clinic)
- (740) 446-5500 (Gallipolis Behavioral Health Clinic)
- (740) 385-6594 (Hocking County Behavioral Health Clinic)
- (740) 286-5245 (Jackson County Behavioral Health Clinic)
- (740) 286-5075 (Jackson Woodland Behavioral Health Clinic)
- (740) 596-4809 (Vinton County Behavioral Health Clinic)
- (740) 992-2192 (Pomeroy Clinic)
- (740) 423-8096 (Washington County Behavioral Health Clinic)
- Integrated Services for Behavioral Health:
- (740) 447-9351 (Integrative Clinical Counseling, Athens)
- (740) 596-7908 (McArthur Office)
- Health Recovery Services: (740) 592-6720
Belmont, Harrison, and Monroe County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Belmont, Harrison, and Monroe Counties Mental Health and Recovery Board
- Main number: (740) 695-9998
- Crisis lines: (800) 351-7347 or (740) 695-0032 (800) 354-4357
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Crossroads Counseling Services:
- (740) 695-9447 (scheduling)
- (888) 202-3900 (crisis line)
- (740) 695-8895 (St. Clairsville)
- (740) 676-5741 (Belmont County)
- (740) 472-5333 (Monroe County Clinic)
- (740) 942-2891 (Harrison County)
- Southeast Healthcare Services: (740) 695-9344
- (740) 942-4905 (Cadiz Clinic)
- (740) 633-2161 (Martins Ferry Clinic)
- (740) 472-0753 (Woodsfield Clinic)
- Tri-County Help Center
- Crisis line: (740) 695-5441 or (800) 695-1639
- (740) 695-5441 (Belmont County)
- (740) 472-0255 (Monroe County)
- (740) 942-1018 (Harrison County)
- The Village Network: (740) 562-0204
- Crossroads Counseling Services:
Brown County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Brown County Board of Mental Health and Addiction Services
- Main number: (937) 378-3504
- Contracted and Network of Care providers:
- Talbert House:
- (513) 281-2273 (main and crisis line)
- (513) 221-4357 (information and referral line)
- (937) 378-4811 (Georgetown clinic)
- (937) 444-6127 (Mt. Orab clinic)
- Mercy Hospital Clermont
- (833) 347-5544 (crisis line)
- (513) 732-8200 (Batavia Behavioral Health Institute)
- Catholic Charities of Southwestern Ohio: (866) 635-9716 or (513) 385-9600
- Talbert House:
Butler County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Butler County Mental Health and Addiction Recovery Services Board
- Main number: (513) 820-9240
- Crisis line: (844) 427-4747
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Access Counseling Services: (513) 649-8008
- Beckett Springs Hospital: (513) 942-9500
- Butler Behavioral Health Services:
- (513) 881-7189 (main number)
- (513) 881-7180 (crisis line)
- (513) 896-7887 (Hamilton Counseling Center)
- (513) 422-7016 (Middletown Counseling Center)
- (513) 273-8064 (Oxford Counseling Center)
- Catholic Charities of Southwestern Ohio: (866) 635-9716 or (513) 273-6129
- Community Behavioral Health Services
- (513) 887-8500 (Hamilton MLK Office)
- (513) 424-0921 (Middletown Office)
- (513) 868-4980 (Hamilton 2nd Street Office)
- Modern Psychiatry and Wellness
- (513) 299-4028 (main number)
- (513) 795-7557 (Hamilton office)
- (513) 868-0055 (West Chester office)
- Transitional Living:
- (513) 863-6383 (Hamilton)
- (513) 422-4004 (Middletown)
Carroll and Tuscarawas County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- ADAMHS Board of Tuscarawas and Carroll Counties
- Main number (Tuscarawas County): (330) 364-6488
- Main number (Carroll County): (330) 627-7912
- Crisis line (Tuscarawas County): (330) 343-1811
- Crisis line (Carroll County) (330) 627-5240
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Community Mental Healthcare:
- (330) 627-4313 (Carrolton)
- (330) 343-6631 (Dover)
- (330) 343-3050 (New Philadelphia)
- Personal Family Counseling: (330) 343-8171
- Southeast Inc.:
- (330) 627-3954 (Carroll County)
- (330) 339-7850 (Tuscarawas County)
- Community Mental Healthcare:
- Other community partners:
- Chrysalis Counseling Center: (330) 364-9360
- Compass Rape Crisis Center:
- (330) 339-2504 (main number)
- (330) 339-1427 (crisis line)
- Guiding Grace Counseling: (330) 343-7400
- Union Hospital Behavioral Health Center: (330) 308-3700
- Vibrant Living at Trinity Hospital (counseling for seniors): (740) 922-7415
- The Village Network: (800) 638-3232 or (740) 922-2144
Clark, Greene, and Madison County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Mental Health and Recovery Board of Clark, Greene, and Madison Counties
- Main number: (937) 322-0648 or (800) 435-7968
- Crisis line (Clark County): (937) 399-9500
- Crisis line (Greene County): (937) 376-8701
- Crisis line (Madison County): (740) 852-6256
- Partner outpatient programs:
- Catholic Charities: (937) 325-8715 or (866) 635-9716
- Family Violence Prevention Center of Greene County: (937) 376-8526
- Greene County Educational Service Center: (937) 767-1303
- Mental Health Services for Clark and Madison Counties: (937) 399-9500
- Oesterlen Walter Brooker Community Counseling Center: (937) 399-6101 or (937) 398-0241
- Project Woman Ohio:
- (937) 328-5308 (main number and Springfield office)
- (937) 772-9164 (Urbana office)
- (800) 634-9893 (crisis line)
- Rocking Horse Community Health Center:
- (937) 324-1111 (main number and Springfield office)
- (937) 324-7423 (School of Innovation)
- (740) 845-7286 (Madison County office)
- TCN Behavioral Health Services (multiple locations): (937) 376-8700
- Wellspring:
- (937) 325-5564 (Springfield office)
- (937) 653-5990 (Bellefontaine and Urbana offices)
- Women’s Recovery Center: (937) 352-2900 or (937) 562-2400
Clermont County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Clermont County Mental Health and Recovery Board
- Main number: (513) 732-5400
- Crisis line: (513) 528-7283
- Contracted and Network of Care outpatient providers:
- Catholic Charities of Southwestern Ohio: (513) 489-8898
- Child Focus Inc.: (513) 752-1555
- Greater Cincinnati Behavioral Health Services:
- (513) 354-7555 (information line)
- (513) 354-5200 (main office and general information)
- (513) 354-7200 (North Cincinnati office)
- (513) 735-8100 (Batavia offices)
- (513) 947-7000 (Amelia and Milford offices)
- (513) 381-6300 (Price Hill office)
- Hope Center: (513) 752-6170
- Mercy Health Behavioral Health Institute: (513) 732-8200
Clinton and Warren County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Mental Health Recovery Services of Warren and Clinton Counties
- Main number: (513) 695-1695
- Crisis line: (877) 695-6333
- Contracted and Network of Care outpatient providers:
- Lindner Center of Hope: (513) 536-4673
- Solutions Community Counseling and Recovery Centers:
- (513) 228-7800 (main number)
- (937) 746-1154 (Springboro office)
- (513) 398-2551 (Mason office)
- (937) 383-4441 (Wilmington office)
- Talbert House:
- (513) 221-4357 (information)
- (513) 281-2273 (crisis line)
- (513) 932-4337 (Lebanon)
- (513) 723-0883 (Franklin)
- (937) 414-2016 (Wilmington)
Columbiana County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Columbiana County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board
- Main number: (330) 424-0195
- Crisis line: (330) 747-2696
- Contracted and Network of Care outpatient providers:
- Columbiana County Counseling Center:
- (330) 424-9573 (Lisbon office)
- (330) 386-9004 (East Liverpool office)
- (330) 332-1514 (Salem office)
- Comprehensive Behavioral Health Associates:
- (330) 797-4050 (Austintown office)
- (330) 385-8800 (East Liverpool office)
- (234) 575-0112 (Salem office)
- (330) 953-2945 (Youngstown office)
- Family Recovery Center: (330) 424-1468
- Preferred Care Counseling: (330) 482-3974
- PsyCare:
- (800) 242-4604 (main number)
- (330) 270-1400 (Austintown Clinic)
- (330) 758-0101 (Boardman Clinic)
- (330) 637-8668 (Cortland Clinic)
- (330) 385-1000 (East Liverpool Clinic)
- (330) 856-6663 (Howland Clinic)
- (330) 759-2310 (Liberty Clinic)
- (330) 318-3078 (Struthers Clinic)
- Columbiana County Counseling Center:
Coshocton, Guernsey, Morgan, Muskingum, Noble, and Perry County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Muskingum Area Mental Health and Recovery Services Board
- Main number: (740) 454-8557
- Crisis line: (740) 453-5818 or (800) 344-5818
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Allwell Behavioral Health Services:
- (740) 454-9766 (main number)
- (740) 454-9766 (Muskingum offices)
- (740) 622-4470 (Coschocton offices)
- (740) 342-5154 (Perry offices)
- (740) 439-4428 (Guernsey offices)
- (740) 962-5204 (Morgan offices)
- (740) 732-5233 (Noble offices)
- Coshocton Behavioral Health Choices: (740) 622-0033
- Morgan Behavioral Health Choices: (740) 962-6933
- Muskingum Behavioral Health: (740) 454-1266
- Noble Behavioral Health Choices: (740) 732-5988
- Perry Behavioral Health Choices: (740) 342-1991 or (800) 300-0932
- Allwell Behavioral Health Services:
Crawford and Marion County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Crawford-Marion ADAMHS Board
- Main number (Crawford County): (419) 562-7288
- Main number (Marion County): (740) 387-8531
- Crisis line: (740) 383-2273 or (419) 562-9010
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Community Counseling Services Inc.: (419) 562-2000
- Lutheran Social Services of Northwest Ohio: (419) 243-9178
- Marion Area Counseling Center: (740) 387-5210
- Maryhaven Bucyrus: (419) 562-1740
- Maryhaven Marion: (740) 375-5550
Cuyahoga County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Cuyahoga County ADAMHS Board
- Main number: (216) 241-3400
- Crisis line: (216) 623-6888
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Catholic Charities of Cleveland: (216) 391-2030
- Circle Health Services:
- (216) 721-4010 (main number)
- (216) 707-3500 (counseling inquiries)
- (216) 707-3510 (after-hours patient line)
- Far West Center: (440) 835-6212
- FrontLine Service: (216) 623-6555
- Front Steps Housing and Services: (216) 781-2250
- Jewish Family Service Association of Cleveland: (216) 292-3999 or (216) 378-3405
- Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry: (216) 696-2715 or (216) 281-2500
- May Dugan Center: (216) 631-5800
- MetroHealth System: (216) 778-4428
- Moore Counseling and Mediation Services: (216) 404-1900
- Murtis Taylor Human Service System: (216) 283-4400
- OhioGuidestone:
- (440) 234-2006 (general information)
- (440) 260-8595 (client crisis line)
- Recovery Resources:
- (216) 431-4131 (appointments)
- (440) 886-5950 (warm line)
- Signature Health: (216) 831-6466
- YMCA of Greater Cleveland: (216) 431-2018
Darke, Miami, and Shelby County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Tri-County Board of Recovery and Mental Health Services
- Main number: (937) 335-7727
- Crisis line: (800) 351-7347
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Family Resource Center of Northwest Ohio: (937) 710-4616
- Miami County Recovery Council: (937) 335-4543
- Recovery and Wellness Centers of Midwest Ohio:
- (937) 423-6536 (appointments)
- (937) 456-7694 (Eaton Recovery and Wellness)
- (937) 548-6842 (Greenville Recovery and Wellness)
- (937) 548-1635 (Darke County Mental Health Clinic)
- (937) 335-0361 (Miami County Mental Health Clinic)
- SafeHaven Inc.:
- (937) 548-7233 (Darke County Site)
- (937) 615-0126 (Miami County Site)
- (937) 658-6930 (Shelby County Site)
Defiance, Fulton, Henry, and Williams County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Four County Board of ADAMHS
- Main number: (419) 267-3355
- Crisis line: (800) 468-4357
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- A Renewed Mind Behavioral Health:
- (419) 720-9247 or (877) 515-5505 (main number)
- (419) 359-5461 (The Renewal Center in Napoleon)
- (800) 468-4357 (Crisis Care and Counseling Center)
- (419) 633-0705 (Bryan office)
- (419) 359-0110 (Wauseon office)
(419) 359-0336 (Defiance office)
- Behavioral Health Partners of Western Ohio:
- (419) 221-3072 (main number)
- (419) 785-3827 (Defiance Community Health Center)
- (567) 239-4562 (Bryan Community Health Center)
- Center for Child and Family Advocacy: (419) 592-0540
- Maumee Valley Guidance Center: (419) 782-8856 or (800) 569-3980
- Recovery Services of Northwest Ohio: (419) 782-9920
- A Renewed Mind Behavioral Health:
Delaware and Morrow County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Delaware-Morrow Mental Health and Recovery Services Board
- Main number: (740) 368-1740
- Crisis line: (800) 684-2324
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Maryhaven:
- (740) 203-3800 (Delaware)
- (419) 946-6734 (Mt. Gilead)
- Mid-Ohio Psychological Services: (740) 417-9265
- Recovery and Prevention Resources of Delaware and Morrow Counties:
- (740) 369-6811 (Delaware)
- (419) 947-4055 (Mt. Gilead)
- Southeast Healthcare Services:
- (614) 225-0990 (main number)
- (740) 695-7795 (Delaware)
- (419) 949-2000 (Mt. Gilead)
- Syntero:
- (614) 889-5722 (main number)
- (740) 428-0428 (Lewis Center)
- Maryhaven:
Erie and Ottawa County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Erie and Ottawa Counties Mental Health and Recovery Board
- Main number: (419) 627-1908
- Crisis line: (800) 826-1306
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Bayshore Counseling Services:
- (419) 626-9156 (Sandusky)
- (419) 734-5535 (Port Clinton)
- Choices Behavioral Healthcare: (419) 635-5950
- Firelands Counseling and Recovery Services:
- (800) 342-1177 (main number)
- (419) 557-5177 (Sandusky)
- (419) 734-2942 (Port Clinton and Genoa)
- (419) 898-0077 (Oak Harbor)
- Bayshore Counseling Services:
Fairfield County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Fairfield County ADAMH Board
- Main number: (740) 654-0829
- Crisis line: (740) 687-8255
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- The Lighthouse (trauma-focused counseling): (740) 687-4423
- Mid-Ohio Psychological Services, Inc.: (740) 687-0042
- New Horizons Mental Health Services:
- (740) 687-0835 (main Lancaster number)
- (740) 277-6733 (Lancaster secondary site)
- (614) 834-1919 (Pickerington site)
- MHA of Franklin County Pro Bono Counseling: (614) 884-7227
- Ohio Guidestone:
- (440) 639-4974 (general information)
- (440) 260-8595 (client crisis line)
- (888) 522-9174 (Lancaster office)
Fayette, Highland, Pickaway, Pike, and Ross County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Paint Valley ADAMHS Board
- Main number (Central Chillicothe Office): (740) 773-2283 or (800) 906-6757
- Crisis line (Fayette County): (740) 335-7155
- Crisis line (Highland County): (937) 393-9904
- Crisis line (Pickaway County): (740) 477-2579
- Crisis line (Pike County): (740) 947-2147
- Crisis line (Ross County): (740) 773-4357
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Family Recovery Services:
- (937) 393-4562 (Administrative Office)
- (937) 393-9720 (Hillsboro Mental Health Office)
- (937) 393-9662 (Hillsboro Connections Office)
- Pickaway Area Recovery Services:
- (740) 477-1745 (Circleville Office)
- (740) 335-8228 (Fayette Recovery Center)
- The Recovery Council:
- (740) 947-6727 (Pike County)
- (740) 851-5307 (Chillicothe)
- (740) 947-7581 (Waverly)
- Scioto Paint Valley Mental Health Center:
- (740) 335-6935 (Fayette County Clinic)
- (937) 393-9946 (Highland County Clinic)
- (740) 474-8874 (Pickaway County Clinic)
- (740) 672-2401 (The Rulon Center)
- (937) 981-7701 (Lynn Goff Clinic)
- (740) 947-7783 (Pike County Clinic)
- (740) 775-1270 (Floyd Simantel Clinic)
- (740) 775-1260 (Martha Cottrill Clinic)
- Family Recovery Services:
Franklin County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Franklin County ADAMH Board
- Main number: (614) 224-1057
- Crisis line: (614) 276-2273
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Africentric Personal Development Shop: (614) 253-4448
- Alvis, Inc.: (614) 252-8402
- Community for New Direction: (614) 252-4941
- Concord Counseling Services: (614) 882-9338
- Directions for Youth and Families: (614) 294-2661
- LSS Choices (for victims of domestic violence): (614) 224-4663
- Maryhaven Main Campus (Columbus): (614) 445-8131
- MHA of Franklin County Pro Bono Counseling: (614) 884-7227
- Netcare Access(crisis intervention and assessment):
- (614) 274-9500 (main office)
- (614) 276-2273 (crisis lien)
- North Central Mental Health Services:
- (614) 299-6600 (main number)
- (614) 221-5445 (suicide prevention hotline)
- (614) 475-7090 (North Central Counseling)
- North Community Counseling Centers:
- (614) 261-3196 (Central Intake)
- (614) 267-7003 (North Columbus location)
- (614) 827-1307 (South Columbus location)
- (614) 279-7690 (West Columbus location)
- (614) 846-2588 (Bridge location)
- (614) 582-2368 (Center for New Americans)
- Ohio Guidestone: (888) 522-9174
- Southeast Healthcare:
- (614) 225-0990 (main number)
- (614) 224-4850 (Franklin Station)
- (614) 444-0800 (Columbus Adult and Family Services)
- Syntero:
- (614) 889-5722 (Dublin)
- (614) 457-7876 (Mill Run)
- (614) 600-2708 (Northeast Columbus)
- The Village Network:
- (800) 638-3232 (Outpatient Behavioral Health information)
- (614) 253-8050 (The Village Network Columbus – East Long Street)
- (614) 445-7447 (The Village Network Columbus – Integrity Drive)
Gallia, Jackson, and Meigs County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Gallia, Jackson and Meigs ADAMHS Board
- Main number: (740) 446-3022
- Crisis line: (800) 252-5554
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Health Recovery Services:
- (740) 592-6720 (main number)
- (740) 446-7010 (Gallia County)
- (740) 577-3492 (Jackson County)
- (740) 992-5277 (Meigs County)
- Hopewell Health Centers:
- (740) 446-5500 (Gallia County)
- (740) 286-5245 (Jackson – McCarty Lane)
- (740) 286-4075 (Jackson – Burlington Road)
- (740) 992-2192 (Meigs County)
- Integrated Services for Behavioral Health:
- (740) 208-5554 (Gallipolis)
- (740) 577-3033 (Jackson)
- (740) 444-5895 (Middleport)
- Health Recovery Services:
Geauga County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Geauga County Board of Mental Health and Recovery Services
- Main number: (440) 285-2282
- Crisis line: (440) 285-5665 or (888) 285-5665
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Catholic Charities Outpatient Mental Health: (440) 285-3537
- Family Pride of Northeast Ohio: (440) 286-1553 (Chardon Office)
- Ravenwood Health(Chardon):
- (440) 285-3568 (Main Office)
- (440) 286-1631 (South Street)
- (440) 632-5355 (Middlefield)
- (440) 286-2588 (John Murray Center)
- WomenSafe Inc. (for victims of domestic violence): (440) 286-7154
Hamilton County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Hamilton County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board
- Main number: (513) 946-8600
- Crisis line (Talbert House): (513) 281-2273
- Crisis line (Mental Health Access Point): (513) 558-8888
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Central Clinic Behavioral Health:
- (513) 558-7416 (main number)
- (513) 584-8577 (crisis line)
- (513) 558-5801 (Adult Outpatient Services)
- (513) 868-1562 (Hamilton Clinic)
- (513) 737-1247 (Middletown Clinic)
- Central Community Health Board: (513) 559-2000
- The Crossroads Center: (513) 475-5300
- Greater Cincinnati Behavioral Health Services:
- (513) 354-7555 (service information)
- (513) 354-5200 (Main Cincinnati Office)
- (513) 354-7200 (North Cincinnati office)
- (513) 381-6300 (Price Hill office)
- (513) 947-7000 (Milford office)
- Lighthouse Outpatient Mental Health Services: (513) 221-3350
- Mental Health America Pro Bono Counseling Program: (513) 562-2582
- Pressley Ridge Outpatient Mental Health Services:
- (513) 559-1402 (Pressley Ridge Cincinnati)
- (513) 737-0400 (Pressley Ridge Hamilton)
- (513) 752-4548 (Pressley Ridge Clermont)
- Talbert House:
- (513) 221-4357 (information line)
- (513) 281-2273 (crisis line)
- (513) 751-7747 (Executive Office)
- Central Clinic Behavioral Health:
Hancock County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Hancock County ADAMHS
- Main number: (419) 424-1985
- Crisis line: (888) 936-7116
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- A Renewed Mind Behavioral Health: (419) 422-7800
- Choices Behavioral Healthcare: (419) 491-1180
- Century Health:
- (419) 425-5050 (South Campus)
- (419) 422-3711 (North Campus)
- Family Resource Center of Northwest Ohio: (419) 422-8616
- Lutheran Social Services of Northwestern Ohio: (419) 422-7917
Holmes and Wayne County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Mental Health and Recovery Board of Wayne and Holmes Counties
- Main number (Holmes County): (330) 674-5772
- Main number (Wayne County): (330) 264-2527
- Crisis line: (330) 264-9029
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Anazao Community Partners:
- (330) 264-9597 (Main Office, Wooster)
- (330) 674-4608 (Millersburg)
- (330) 682-4800 (Orrville)
- Catholic Charities of Wayne County: (330) 262-7836
- The Counseling Center of Wayne and Holmes Counties:
- (330) 264-9029 (Wooster)
- (330) 674-6697 (Millersburg)
- (330) 683-5106 (Orrville)
- (330) 925-5466 (Rittman)
- (234) 217-8589 (Wadsworth)
- Family Life Counseling: (330) 275-0573
- OneEighty:
- (330) 264-8498 (Wooster)
- (330) 674-1020 (Millersburg)
- Anazao Community Partners:
Huron County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Huron County Board of Mental Health and Addiction Services
- Main number: (419) 668-9858
- Crisis line: (800) 826-1306
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Family Life Counseling and Psychiatric Services:
- (419) 774-9969 (main number)
- (567) 560-3584 (Norwalk Office)
- (567) 560-3586 (Willard Office)
- (567) 560-3587 (Bellevue Office)
- Firelands Counseling and Recovery Services of Huron County:
- (419) 663-3737 (Norwalk Office)
- (419) 483-6516 (Bellevue Office)
- (419) 935-0452 (Willard Office)
- Family Life Counseling and Psychiatric Services:
Jefferson County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Jefferson County Prevention and Recovery Board
- Main number: (740) 282-1300
- Crisis line: (740) 996-7127
- Contracted and Network of Care outpatient providers:
- Coleman Professional Services: (740) 996-7100
- Family Recovery Center: (740) 283-4946
- Jefferson Behavioral Health: (740) 264-7751
- Trinity East: (740) 283-7000 or (740) 264-8000
- The Village Network: (740) 284-1977
Lake County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Lake County ADAMHS Board
- Main number: (440) 350-3117
- Crisis line: (440) 953-8255
- Compass Line: (440) 350-2000
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Beacon Health:
- (440) 354-9924 (main number)
- (440) 639-3555 (Counseling Program)
- Cleveland Rape Crisis Center: (216) 619-6194 x141
- Crossroads:
- (440) 255-1700 (Mentor)
- (440) 497-1977 (Family Wellness Center, Willoughby)
- (440) 255-1700 (Perry Athletic Center)
- Lake-Geauga Recovery Centers:
- (440) 255-0678 (Mentor)
- (440) 255-6348 (Painesville)
- Signature Health:
- (440) 853-1501 (Painesville)
- (440) 953-9999 (Willoughby)
- WomenSafe (for victims of domestic violence): (440) 286-7154
- Beacon Health:
Licking and Knox County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Licking and Knox Counties Mental Health and Recovery Board
- Main number: (740) 522-1234
- Crisis line: (800) 544-1601
- Contracted and Network of Care outpatient providers:
- Behavioral Health Partners of Central Ohio: (740) 522-8477 or (877) 593-6330
- Mid-Ohio Psychological Services: (740) 281-1777
- National Youth Advocate Program: (740) 349-7511
- The Village Network:
- (800) 638-3232 (central office)
- (740) 788-8850 (Newark)
- (740) 392-1450 (Mt. Vernon – Howard Street)
- (740) 397-7582 (Mt. Vernon – Coshocton Road)
- The Woodlands: (740) 349-7066
Logan and Champaign County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Logan and Champaign Counties ADAMHS Board
- Main number: (937) 465-1045
- Crisis line: (800) 224-0422
- Contracted outpatient providers (Logan County):
- Adkins and Affiliates: (937) 599-1474
- Consolidated Care Inc.:
- (800) 465-8065 (main number)
- (937) 599-1975 (Bellefontaine and Russells Point clinics)
- (937) 465-8065 (West Liberty clinic)
- Light the Way Christian Counseling: (937) 593-9600
- Wellspring: (937) 653-5990
- Contractedoutpatient providers (Champaign County):
- Consolidated Care Inc.:
- (800) 465-8065 (main number)
- (937) 653-5583 (Urbana clinic)
- Consolidated Care Inc.:
- Fowler Counseling Services: (937) 631-0257
- Mercy Hospital Second Floor: (866) 635-9713
- Mercy Health Reach: (937) 653-3001
- Transitions Counseling Services: (937) 652-1881
- Wellspring: (937) 653-5990
Lorain County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Lorain County Board of Mental Health
- Main number: (440) 240-7025
- Crisis line: (800) 888-6161
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Far West Center:
- (440) 988-4900 (Amherst)
- (440) 835-6212 (Westlake)
- Firelands Counseling Center: (440) 984-3882
- Ohio Guidestone: (440) 260-6100
- The Nord Center: (440) 233-7232
- Pathways Counseling and Growth Center: (440) 323-5707
- Far West Center:
Lucas County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Lucas County Mental Health and Recovery Services
- Main number: (419) 213-4600
- Crisis line: (419) 255-9585
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- A Renewed Mind:
- (877) 515-5505 (main number)
- (419) 720-9247 (Toledo – Adams Street)
- (419) 214-0606 (Toledo – Tremainsville)
- Choices Behavioral Healthcare: (419) 865-5690
- Harbor Mental Health:
- (419) 475-4449 (main number)
- (419) 475-6478 (Toledo – Secor Road)
- (419) 725-3330 (Toledo – Woodley Road)
- Lutheran Social Services of Northwestern Ohio: (419) 243-9178
- Rescue Mental Health and Addiction Services: (419) 255-9585
- Sarah Outreach and Recovery Center:
- (419) 407-5546 (Toledo – Phillips Ave)
- (419) 241-2182 (Toledo – Monroe Street)
- Unison Health:
- (419) 214-4673 (main number)
- (419) 724-3133 (Toledo – Cherry Street)
- (419) 693-0361 (Toledo – Starr Avenue)
- (419) 242-9577 (Toledo – Woodruff Avenue)
- Zepf Center: (419) 841-7701
- A Renewed Mind:
Mahoning County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Mahoning County Mental Health and Recovery Board
- Main number: (330) 746-2959
- Crisis line: (330) 747-2696 or 211
- Contracted and Network of Care outpatient providers:
- Allied Behavioral Health: (330) 282-1383
- Center for Behavioral Health: (330) 783-9690
- Churchill Counseling Services: (330) 270-3040
- Compass Family and Community Services: (330) 782-5564
- Comprehensive Behavioral Health Associates: (330) 953-2945
- Family and Community Services Inc. (330) 297-7027
- Jewish Family Services: (330) 505-2300
- Meridian Outpatient Center: (330) 797-0070
- One Health Ohio: (330) 747-9551
- Pathways of Ohio: (330) 921-8308
- Preferred Care Counseling: (330) 757-3975
- PsyCare Behavioral Health:
- (330) 270-1400 (Austintown)
- (330) 758-0101 (Boardman)
- (330) 759-2310 (Youngstown)
- (330) 318-3078 (Struthers)
- Valley Counseling Services: (330) 750-7279
Medina County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Medina County ADAMH Board
- Main number: (330) 723-9642
- Crisis line: (330) 725-9195
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Alternative Paths: (330) 725-9195
- Catholic Charities of Medina County: (330) 723-9615
- Ohio Guidestone: (440) 260-8300
Mercer, Paulding, and Van Wert County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Mercer, Van Wert, and Paulding Counties ADAMHS Board
- Main number: (419) 238-5464
- Crisis line: (800) 567-4673
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Foundations Behavioral Health (Mercer County): (419) 584-1000
- Westwood Behavioral Health:
- (800) 523-3978 (crisis line)
- (419) 399-3636 (Paulding County)
- (419) 238-3434 (Van Wert County)
Montgomery County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Montgomery County ADAMHS:
- Main number: (937) 443-0416
- Crisis line: (937) 224-4646
- Suicide prevention line: (937) 226-0818
- GetHelpNow: Montgomery County mental health service locator app
- Network of Care providers:
- Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley:
- (937) 296-1007 (Dayton)
- (937) 498-4593 (Sidney)
- CRN of Dayton: (937) 250-1412
- Eastway Behavioral Healthcare: (937) 396-2535
- Ellis Human Development Institute: (937) 775-4300
- Family Service Association: (937) 222-9481
- Kettering Behavioral Medicine Center: (937) 534-4651
- Mahajan Therapeutics: (937) 275-1500
- Miami Valley Hospital Outpatient Behavioral Health Services: (937) 208-6719
- National Youth Advocate Program: (937) 253-0606
- Nova Behavioral Healthcare: (937) 253-1680
- South Community Positive Health Options: (937) 293-8300
- TCN Behavioral Health Services: (937) 376-8700
- Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley:
Portage County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Portage County Mental Health and Recovery Board
- Main number: (330) 673-1756
- Crisis line: (330) 296-3555 or (330) 678-4357
- Contracted and Network of Care outpatient providers:
- Children’s Advantage (family counseling): (330) 296-5552
- Coleman Professional Services: (740) 996-7100
- Family and Community Services: (330) 297-7027
- Summit Psychological Associates: (330) 296-3700
- Townhall II:
- (330) 678-3006 (main number)
- (330) 678-4367 (crisis line)
Preble County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Preble County Mental Health and Recovery Board
- Main number: (937) 456-6827
- Crisis line: (866) 532-3097
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Recovery and Wellness Centers of Midwest Ohio: (937) 456-7694
- Samaritan Behavioral Health: (937) 456-1915
- Sojourner Recovery Services: (513) 868-7654
Putnam County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Putnam County Mental Health and Recovery Board
- Main number: (419) 523-0027
- Crisis line: (800) 567-4673
- Network of Careoutpatient providers:
- Counseling Matters Inc.: (419) 538-6000
- Crime Victim Services: (419) 523-1111
- Pathways Counseling Center: (419) 523-4300
Richland County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Richland County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board
- Main number: (419) 774-5811
- Crisis line: (419) 522-4357
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Catalyst Life Services:
- (419) 756-1717 (Mansfield Center)
(419) 756-1133 (Mansfield Rehab Center) - (419) 342-2449 (Shelby Office)
- (419) 756-1717 (Mansfield Center)
- Family Life Counseling:
- (419) 774-9969 (Mansfield Main Campus)
- (567) 292-9211 (Shelby Office)
- (567) 560-3583 (Galion Office)
- Healing Hearts Counseling Center: (419) 528-5993
- Mansfield UMADAOP (dual diagnosis treatment): (419) 525-3525
- Providers for Healthy Living: (419) 605-9817
- Third Street Family Health Services: (419) 525-6720
- Catalyst Life Services:
Seneca, Sandusky, and Wyandot County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Seneca, Sandusky and Wyandot Counties ADAMHS Board
- Main number: (419) 448-0640
- Crisis line: (800) 826-1306
- Network of Care outpatient providers:
- Cornerstone Counseling:
- (419) 483-9411 (Bellevue)
- (419) 621-8773 (Sandusky)
- Firelands Counseling and Recovery Services:
- (419) 332-5524 (Sandusky County)
- (419) 435-0204 (Seneca County – Fostoria)
- (419) 448-9440 (Seneca County – Tiffin)
- (419) 294-4388 (Wyandot County)
- Lutheran Social Services of Northwestern Ohio: (419) 334-3431
- Cornerstone Counseling:
Stark County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Stark County Mental Health and Addiction Recovery
- Main number: (330) 455-6644
- Crisis line: (330) 452-6000
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Coleman Professional Services:
- (330) 438-2400 (Canton)
- (330) 823-6932 (Alliance)
- CommQuest Services:
- (330) 455-0374 (Canton)
- (330) 821-8407 (Alliance)
- (330) 833-0234 (Massillon)
- (330) 866-3401 (Minerva)
- Ohio Guidestone: (440) 260-6466
- Summit Psychological Associates:
- (234) 718-2331 (intake)
- (330) 493-2554 (North Canton)
- (234) 410-3070 (Downtown Canton)
- Coleman Professional Services:
Summit County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Summit County ADAMHS Board
- Main number: (330) 762-3500
- Crisis line: (330) 434-9144
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- The Blick Center: (330) 762-5425
- Child Guidance and Family Solutions:
- (330) 762-0591 (Akron Central Office)
- (330) 928-2042 (Cuyahoga Falls, Front Street Office)
- (330) 425-7111 (Twinsburg, North Summit Office)
- (330) 733-7993 (Akron, Southeast Summit Office)
- (330) 753-1096 (Barberton, Southwest Summit Office)
- Community Support Services: (330) 253-9388
- Portage Path Behavioral Health:
- (330) 253-3100 (Akron Outpatient Clinic)
- (330) 745-0081 (Barberton Outpatient Clinic)
- (330) 928-2324 (Cuyahoga Falls Outpatient Clinic)
- (330) 762-6110 (Psychiatric Emergency Services)
- Summit Psychological Associates: (330) 535-8181
- Vantage Aging Mental Health Services: (330) 253-4597
Trumbull County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Trumbull County Mental Health and Recovery Board
- Main number: (330) 675-2765
- Crisis line: (330) 392-1100
- Contracted providers:
- Coleman Professional Services: (330) 394-8831 or (330) 673-1347
- Coleman Access Center: (330) 392-1100
- Compass Family and Community Services: (330) 782-5664
- Mercy Behavioral Health Institute Warren: (330) 306-5010
- Meridian Healthcare: (330) 797-0070
- PsyCare Behavioral Healthcare:
- (330) 856-6663 (Howland Clinic)
- (330) 759-2310 (Liberty Clinic)
- Valley Counseling Services:
- (330) 399-6451 (Warren office)
- (330) 759-8237 (Youngstown office)
Union County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Union County Mental Health and Recovery Board
- Main number: (937) 642-1212
- Crisis line: (800) 731-5577
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Consolidated Care: (800) 465-8065
- Lower Lights Christian Health Center: (614) 274-1455
- Maryhaven at the Mills Center: (937) 644-9192
- Ohio Guidestone: (440) 234-2006 or (800) 639-4974
- Wings Support and Recovery (peer support and counseling): (937) 642-9555
Washington County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Washington County Behavioral Health Board
- Main number: (740) 374-6990
- Crisis line: (740) 373-8240
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- Counseling and Wellness Center: (740) 401-3088
- Hopewell Health Centers: (740) 423-8095
- Life and Purpose Behavioral Health: (740) 376-0930
- Worthington Center: (740) 423-4225
Wood County Clinics and Crisis Lines
- Wood County ADAMHS Board
- Main number: (419) 352-8475
- Crisis line: (419) 502-4673
- Contracted outpatient providers:
- A Renewed Mind Behavioral Health:
- (419) 359-5621 (Bowling Green)
- (419) 330-1050 (Perrysburg)
- Arrowhead Behavioral Health (dual diagnosis treatment): (800) 547-5695
- Children’s Resource Center (family counseling): (419) 352-7588
- Harbor Behavioral Health:
- (419) 352-5387 (Bowling Green)
- (419) 872-2419 (Perrysburg)
- Unison Health:
- (419) 352-4624 (Bowling Green)
- (419) 936-7629 (Anxiety Treatment Center in Perrysburg)
- Zepf Center: (419) 373-6560
- A Renewed Mind Behavioral Health:
Federally Qualified Health Centers
Federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) are another option for public mental health care in Ohio. These federally-funded programs provide medical and mental health services to people in underserved communities and are often included in Network of Care listings. Their purpose is to provide high-quality coordinated care to people with complex needs and to link behavioral healthcare with primary medical care. Each FQHC accepts Medicaid and Medicare and offers sliding scale fees to people without insurance. You can search for FQHCs using the online search tool on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website.
How Does Ohio's Public Mental Health System Work?
In the 1960s, Americans started thinking differently about how to treat mental health conditions. New laws required state and local governments to establish community mental health programs as alternatives to institutionalization for people with serious mental illness. Many states’ public mental health programs trace their origins back to this period. Ohio is no exception.
After Congress passed the Community Mental Health Act in 1963, the Ohio legislature passed its own community mental health law in 1967. Like similar laws in other states, it required state and county governments to establish a network of community-based mental health services. By 1974, several community mental health agencies had been established in counties across Ohio.
New laws in the 1980s increased funding for community mental health programs in Ohio and helped them grow at a faster rate. From 1986 to 1990, Ohio moved from twenty-third to fourth place in Public Citizen and NAMI rankings for public mental health services. However, from 2009 to 2011, Ohio made significant funding cuts to mental health care that forced some programs to close or merge and that otherwise limited access to services.
Like most states, Ohio governs its mental health programs at the state level but implements them at the local level. The local agencies that govern Ohio’s behavioral health programs are called Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health (ADAMH) Boards. Many counties in Ohio have their own unique ADAMH board, while some ADAMH boards serve several counties. There are 49 ADAMH boards for Ohio’s 88 counties.
The main role of Ohio’s ADAMH boards is to make sure that Ohio residents have access to mental health services. Most county mental health boards do not directly provide mental health services, but contract with local behavioral healthcare providers. County boards fund, manage, and license local programs to provide services to local residents who need state assistance to access services.