Mental Health

How mental health care works in Georgia

If you're in crisis right now — or someone you love is — call or text 988, or call the Georgia Crisis & Access Line at 1-800-715-4225. Real people answer 24/7, they can talk you through tonight, and they can send a mobile crisis team instead of police in many situations.

For ongoing counseling, Georgia's community service boards offer therapy and psychiatry on a sliding scale — you don't need insurance. Be ready for a waitlist for regular appointments; crisis lines never have one. Some nonprofits and training clinics offer free or cheap counseling with shorter waits — ask 211 what's open near you.

What to expect when you call: a screening conversation (10–20 minutes) about what's going on, then an intake appointment. Saying "I'm in crisis" moves you faster. You can ask for a Spanish-speaking counselor.