What if I need mental health help but cannot afford to pay?

Michigan's Community Mental Health agencies are required by law to provide services to Medicaid enrollees and are often able to serve uninsured individuals on a sliding-scale fee basis based on income. Applying for Michigan Medicaid through MDHHS is a strong first step if you lack insurance. Calling 2-1-1 can also help you find low-cost or free counseling options in your county.

How do I get someone involuntarily evaluated for a mental health crisis in Michigan?

Michigan law allows for a Petition for Involuntary Mental Health Treatment when a person is a danger to themselves or others due to mental illness. You can file a petition at your local county probate court. In an immediate emergency, call 911. You can also contact your county's Community Mental Health crisis line — 2-1-1 can connect you to that local number.

Are there mental health resources specifically for children and teens in Michigan?

Yes. Michigan's Community Mental Health agencies provide services for children and adolescents, including therapy, psychiatric care, and supports for youth with serious emotional disturbances. Schools may also connect families to community mental health services. Call 2-1-1 or contact your county CMH agency to ask specifically about children's services, as intake processes for youth may differ from adult services.

Can I get mental health support if I am experiencing domestic violence?

Yes. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233, available 24/7) can connect you to local shelters and advocates in Michigan who often coordinate access to counseling and mental health support. Michigan also has a network of domestic violence service providers — 2-1-1 can refer you to the closest program in your area. Many services are available confidentially and at no cost to survivors.

Mental Health Resources in Michigan

Last updated September 9, 2026

Michigan residents experiencing mental health challenges have access to a range of state and federally supported programs, from crisis intervention to ongoing counseling and psychiatric care. Whether you are navigating a personal crisis, supporting a loved one, or looking for long-term treatment options, knowing where to start can make a real difference. This guide focuses on legitimate, active programs available across the state.

Michigan's public mental health system is primarily administered through locally governed Community Mental Health (CMH) agencies, organized under the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). These agencies serve every county in the state and are the main entry point for publicly funded mental health, substance use, and developmental disability services. Medicaid covers a broad range of behavioral health services through these CMH agencies, and many offer sliding-scale fees for uninsured individuals.

If you are unsure where to begin, calling 2-1-1 is one of the most practical first steps. Michigan's 2-1-1 service connects callers to local mental health providers, crisis resources, housing, food, and other social services — free of charge, 24 hours a day. For an immediate mental health crisis, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available by call or text at any hour.

Key programs in Michigan

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Immediate, free, and confidential support for people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress, including a dedicated Veterans Crisis Line option. Available by call, text (text 988), or chat at 988lifeline.org.

How to access: Call or text 988 at any time, day or night. No insurance or referral is needed. Veterans can press 1 after dialing to reach specialized veteran support.

Michigan Community Mental Health (CMH) Agencies

County-based agencies that provide publicly funded mental health services including therapy, psychiatric evaluation, medication management, crisis stabilization, and case management for adults, children, and people with developmental disabilities.

How to access: Contact your county's CMH agency directly — find yours through the Michigan Association of Community Mental Health Boards at macmhb.org, or call 2-1-1 for a referral. Medicaid is accepted; sliding-scale options may be available for the uninsured.

Michigan Medicaid (Behavioral Health Coverage)

Michigan Medicaid covers a broad range of mental health and substance use disorder services, including outpatient therapy, inpatient psychiatric care, and crisis services, primarily delivered through CMH agencies and Medicaid Health Plans.

How to access: Apply for Medicaid through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) at michigan.gov/mdhhs or at your local MDHHS office. You can also apply online at benefitsenrollment.michigan.gov or by calling 1-855-275-6424.

2-1-1 Michigan

A free statewide helpline that connects Michigan residents to local mental health providers, substance use treatment, crisis counseling, housing, food assistance, and other social services. Particularly helpful for finding no-cost or low-cost therapy options in your specific county.

How to access: Dial 2-1-1 from any phone, available 24/7. You can also search online at mi211.org. Multilingual assistance is available.

VA Mental Health Services (for Veterans)

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provides comprehensive mental health care to eligible veterans in Michigan, including treatment for PTSD, depression, anxiety, military sexual trauma, and substance use disorders. Services are available at VA medical centers and community-based outpatient clinics across the state.

How to access: Contact the nearest VA medical center — major facilities include the John D. Dingell VA Medical Center in Detroit and the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center in Saginaw. Enroll at va.gov/health-care/apply or call 1-800-827-1000. Veterans in crisis can also press 1 after dialing 988.

Mental Health Resources resources for Michigan

All Well Being Services

SAMHSA-listed mental health treatment facility.

Detroit, Michigan313-347-2070

Mental Health Resources in Michigan

Key programs in Michigan

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Michigan Community Mental Health (CMH) Agencies

Michigan Medicaid (Behavioral Health Coverage)

2-1-1 Michigan

VA Mental Health Services (for Veterans)

Mental Health Resources resources for Michigan

All Well Being Services

American Indian Health and — Family Services of SE Michigan

CHASS — Pope Francis Center

Centers for Family Development Inc — HOPE

Central City Health

Childrens Center of Wayne County

Detroit Community Health Connection — Woodward Corridor

Detroit Recovery Project — Health and Wellness Recov Resource

Elmhurst Home — Recovery Housing and Outpatient

Guidance Center Kids Talk — Ferry Location

Kim Logan Communication Clinic Inc

Mariners Inn

Neighborhood Services Organization

Samaritan Behavioral Center — Inpatient

Spectrum Child and Family Services

Team Wellness Center

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Find Support Today

NAMI HelpLine

Other resources in Michigan

Mental Health Resources in other states