Non-Crisis Help

Where can I go for help when it is NOT a crisis situation?

If you have decided there is not a life or death crisis but that warning signs indicate you or another individual could benefit from treatment for a mental health problem, the following are some tips for getting help:

It is important to know what medical insurance you have and its limitations. Refer to the Financial section of this guide.
Telephone the insurance carrier to see what services are provided for older adults and if they have a network of providers in the area.
Speak with your primary care physician and ask for help.
If you are on Medical Assistance contact the behavioral health care agency in Philadelphia: Community Behavioral Health, 888-545-2600.
If you or the person are homebound or would have difficulty traveling somewhere to get help, contact in-home services to come to your home. Refer to the list of In-Home Services.
Contact an assessment/treatment agency. Refer to a list of Community Mental Health facilities, your District Health Clinic or a Geriatric Psychiatric Assessment center.
Contact the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging Helpline at 215-765-9040 for resources.
Find mental health professionals in private practice. The yellow pages phone book has telephone numbers for mental health professionals under such sections as "Mental Health Centers," "Mental Health Services," "Psychologists/Psychotherapists," "Social Workers," and "Counselors."
The white pages provide public services in the blue section under "Mental Health."
Local social services organizations - such as Catholic Social Services, Jewish Family Services or Lutheran Social Services - can either provide counseling services or refer you to local mental health services.
Contact local hospitals that may have mental health services or will be able to inform you of local mental health services.
The Department of Veterans Affairs will provide information on services for those qualified to receive benefits.

Page updated: March 1, 2005.