If you or someone you know needs emotional support: call or text 988 or chat online for help now. If you need immediate medical help, dial 911.
Mental health is part of your overall health. If you or someone you love is struggling, there are programs, services, and legal protections that can help.
Where can I find mental health services near me?
New York State has an online directory where you can search for mental health services. You can filter by location, type of service, and who it's for.
Are there services for my specific situation?
Many programs are designed for specific groups of people. Here are some places to start:
- Children and families: Find children's mental health support services
- LGBTQ+ young people: Mental health resources for LGBTQ+ young people
- Veterans: VA Mental Health & Crisis Hotline
- Other groups: See the groups that are served by New York State mental health programs
What if my insurance doesn't cover the care I need?
New York requires most insurance plans to cover treatment for mental health and substance use disorders.
You have rights when it comes to mental health coverage. Depending on your situation, here are some options:
- If your plan doesn't have enough in-network providers: Learn what to do.
- If you need help finding a provider or understanding your benefits: Contact the Community Health Access to Addiction and Mental Healthcare Project (CHAMP). They can help you find care, understand your insurance benefits, challenge coverage denials, and connect you to legal or social services. It’s free and confidential. Call 888-614-5400 or email ombuds@oasas.ny.gov.
- If your insurer is not following the rules: You can file a complaint or get help from New York State. Learn how to get help if your rights have been violated.
- If you've had trouble getting emergency psychiatric care covered: The New York State Attorney General's Health Care Bureau helps with insurance problems. Call their toll-free helpline at 800-428-9071.
Can someone help me navigate the system?
Yes. If you or a family member is getting services from a state-licensed facility or program, you can ask for an advocate. An advocate is someone who helps protect your rights, answers questions, goes with you to interviews or court proceedings, and connects you to other services. Learn about advocacy and support services.
What if something goes wrong?
If a person with a mental illness is arrested, there are specific ways family members and loved ones can help. Learn what to do when a person with mental illness is arrested.
If you or someone you know experiences abuse, neglect, or mistreatment at a state-licensed program, you can report it. Learn how to report an incident.
Can I get free legal help?
If you have a legal problem connected to your mental health, like with housing, benefits, or discrimination, a legal aid organization may be able to help for free. Find legal help near you.
Last Reviewed: May 26, 2026