MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES -DC

Shalena
Sep 21
3 min read

In Washington, D.C., a wide range of mental health resources are available to residents, from immediate crisis support to long-term therapy and specialized care. The DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) is the central hub for many of these services, which are often provided through a network of community-based organizations. Many of these resources offer low-cost or sliding-scale options, making care more accessible.

Crisis and Immediate Care

For anyone experiencing a mental health crisis, D.C. offers immediate, 24/7 assistance.

ACCESS HelpLine (1-888-7WE-HELP / 1-888-793-4357): This is the primary point of contact for anyone in the District facing a behavioral health crisis. The helpline connects you with emergency psychiatric care and can dispatch mobile crisis teams to your location if you're unable to travel.
National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988): This is a nationwide, three-digit number that provides free, confidential support from trained counselors around the clock for anyone in distress.
Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP): Located at 1905 E Street SE, CPEP provides 24/7 emergency psychiatric services for adults.
Child and Adolescent Mobile Psychiatric Service (ChAMPS): This service provides on-site crisis intervention for children and youth aged 6-21. You can reach them at 202-481-1440.

Community-Based and Low-Cost Services

D.C.'s network of community providers offers comprehensive, long-term care, often with an emphasis on integrated physical and mental health.

McClendon Center: A non-profit that provides high-quality behavioral and mental healthcare, including counseling, medication management, and community-based support, with a focus on recovery and improved quality of life.
Catholic Charities DC's Behavioral Health Services: This is a top-rated provider of psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and case management services for adults with mental illness.
Community of Hope: With multiple locations, including the Marie Reed Health Center, they offer integrated care that includes emotional wellness services, substance abuse support, and psychiatric services for people of all ages.
Mary's Center: This organization provides comprehensive mental health services, including psychiatry, therapy, and integrated care, to individuals and families, regardless of their ability to pay.

Specialized and Affinity-Based Support

For many, finding care that understands specific identities or challenges is crucial. D.C. has a number of resources tailored to these needs.

For the LGBTQ+ Community

Whitman-Walker Health: This is a key provider of affirming healthcare for the LGBTQ+ community, offering behavioral health, gender-affirming care, and substance use treatment in a safe and supportive environment.
The DC LGBTQ+ Community Center: The center's DC Anti-Violence Project offers no-cost, short-term mental health counseling and referrals for adult survivors of violence, abuse, and trauma in the LGBTQ+ community.
SMYAL (Sexual Minority Youth Assistance League): SMYAL provides resources and support for LGBTQ+ youth, including mental health services.

For Youth and Families

Latin American Youth Center (LAYC): LAYC provides a range of services, including mental health support, for young people in the District.
Hillcrest Children and Family Center: This center offers programs and therapy options for all ages, with a long history of providing services regardless of ability to pay.
Children's National Hospital's Youth Pride Clinic: This clinic provides comprehensive primary and mental healthcare to LGBTQ+ youth and young adults aged 12-22.

Substance Use and Addiction Treatment

Addiction is often linked with mental health challenges, and several D.C. organizations specialize in this dual-diagnosis approach.

Aquila Recovery Clinic: This clinic offers outpatient and intensive outpatient programs with an integrated care model that treats both substance use and mental health problems.
Samaritan Inns: This organization provides programs and resources for individuals struggling with substance use disorders and homelessness, offering both detox and inpatient services.
Gaudenzia RAP Residential: With a history of serving the District for over 55 years, Gaudenzia offers evidence-based residential and outpatient addiction treatment, including medication-assisted treatment and counseling.