Struggling with your mental health but lacking the financial resources for professional counseling? Seeking support can be daunting, especially when cost is a barrier.
However, there are options available for those in need of mental health services without breaking the bank. This guide explores avenues to access free or low-cost counseling, empowering you to prioritize your well-being without added financial strain. Prepare to embark on a journey towards better mental health, one step at a time.
Check With Your Health Insurance Provider
First — let’s talk about your insurance. Many health insurance plans cover mental health services, including counseling and therapy sessions. Before exploring your other options, it’s essential to check with your insurance provider to understand the coverage and benefits they could offer for mental health care.
Verify Your Plan's Coverage
Start by reviewing your insurance policy or contacting your provider’s customer service department. Ask about the specific mental health services covered, such as individual or group therapy sessions.
Consider In-Network Providers
Most insurance companies have their network of mental health professionals that they work with, and you’re typically going to receive much better coverage and pay less money out-of-pocket when visiting an in-network provider. Request a list of in-network counselors or therapists in your area and their specialties.
Understand The Referral Process
Some insurance plans require a referral from your primary care physician before seeking mental health services. Inquire about the referral process and whether you need prior authorization.
By understanding your insurance coverage for mental health services, you can maximize your benefits and potentially access free or low-cost counseling options with your provider’s network.
School or Workplace Counseling Services
Many schools or workplaces offer free or low-cost counseling services as part of their student or employee programs. These services are excellent for those seeking mental health support.
On-Campus Counseling Centers
Most colleges and universities have counseling centers that provide free or heavily discounted counseling sessions to currently enrolled students. Services typically include individual therapy, group counseling, crisis intervention, and referrals to local mental health providers. These centers are staffed by licensed professionals like psychologists, social workers, and counselors. They help with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship problems, and more.
Employee Assistance
Many companies offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that provide confidential counseling and referral services to employees and their immediate family members. Sessions are usually free for a set number of visits each issue, after which employees may need to use health insurance or pay out-of-pocket.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA)
Next — take a look at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA).
Free Hotlines
SAMHSA is an organization providing free as well as confidential mental health counseling on their national helpline. This 24/7 service connects callers with trained crisis counselors to provide emotional support, crisis counseling, organization referrals, support groups, and local mental health treatment facilities.
Educational Resources
In addition to counseling services, SAMHSA offers a wealth of free educational materials. Their website features publications and mental health resources designed to increase public awareness.
Outreach Programs
SAMHSA funds outreach initiatives that offer mental health services to communities. They often target underserved populations such as veterans, minorities, and low-income individuals.
Many parents still go back and forth about whether to get an emergency phone for kids today. We are not here to scare you into getting a phone as the ultimate protection device but instead cover the benefits you may not have considered of a child having their own phone.
Then, we’ll also show you how to get FREE talk, text, and data service from EASY Wireless through the Lifeline and ACP government programs.
The Benefits of Cell Phones for Kids
An emergency phone for kids is a must-have for any parent to give their children, especially when you consider the many benefits of having one.
Kids can call for help, find out where they are if lost, and provide information about their location if needed
Parents can leave them messages or text important information to them
Phones also have GPS tracking that can be activated if needed
The cell phone has emergency contact information in case of an emergency or accident
A mobile phone provides a sense of safety and security for kids, knowing they have it on them at all times.
Teach Your Children Responsible Smartphone Use
Most modern phones are smartphones, and these days it’s important for children to get used to using them responsibly at a young age.
Show them how to use search to find information on the internet, use apps to play games or listen to music, and how emergency calls work.
Teach them how to charge, clean and protect their new smartphone and they’ll begin to understand the responsibility of caring for their cell phone.
How to pick the right phone for your child
Five main points to check when choosing a phone for your child include:
- Durability
- Tracking
- Long battery life
- Parental Controls
- Ease of Use
Smartphone Durability
One of the most important things to consider in a child emergency cell phone is its durability. Will the phone survive a drop on the floor? Most phones will need a case and screen protector to help reduce the chances of accidental screen cracks or scratches
GPS Tracker on Smartphones
A good emergency cell phone for kids will have a GPS tracker so you can locate where they are.
Long Battery Life
Phones for kids need a battery that can last a long time. If they are going to be out all day, make sure the battery will last, or get in the habit of taking your child’s phone charger with you on outings, too. Consider buying an external battery charger for times when an outlet is not available.
Parental Controls and Phone Plans for Kids
Make sure any cell phone plan includes parental controls that let you lock certain apps or features from being used.
Google Family Link app (which is free) lets you control which apps are downloaded and notifies you of any changes your child may make to the phone.
You can also limit screen time on their phone through parental controls.
Why you should get a plan with unlimited data, text messaging, and talk time
When choosing a cell phone plan for your child’s first phone, look for a plan that includes unlimited data, talk and text time. This way you will not have to worry about running out of minutes or texts by the end of the month, or of any surprise overage charges.
Good News for parents searching for where to get a free phone and service plan!
You may qualify for free phone service with unlimited data, text, and talk through the Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) supported by the Federal government.
Many phone service providers will also give you a FREE smartphone and when you sign up for Lifeline or ACP.
The Lifeline Program and Affordable Connectivity Program
The Lifeline Program is an FCC program that provides free wireless phone service to people who meet certain program or income requirements.
Millions of low-income individuals across the country qualify for this free government cell phone plan every year!
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a new program designed to provide additional support to make broadband more affordable for households.
Your Lifeline and ACP benefits can be combined and applies to the same service plan or applied to different service plans.
Most families with children in a public school receiving school wide free breakfast or lunch will qualify for this new ACP benefit.
Through these government programs you can stay connected with friends, family, work, and school for your kids.
How to Check if You Qualify for Lifeline and ACP
You can qualify for the Lifeline Program if you are already receiving benefits from
- Medicaid
- Federal Public Housing Assistance
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Food Stamps or SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income
- Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit
- Income 135% below the Federal Poverty Guidelines
If you qualify for Lifeline, you are automatically qualified for Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).
ACP Only Qualification and Benefits
For parents that do not qualify for Lifeline but whose children attend a public school enrolled in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) you may qualify for EBB only benefits. Check with a Lifeline service provider as they may be able to provide you a free phone and phone and data services through this program. While the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) is a program you must apply for and qualify based off your income, there are times when the whole school is on a free breakfast or lunch program through a Community Eligibility Provision, or CEP.
The COMMUNITY ELIGIBILITY PROVISION (CEP) enables eligible schools to serve free meals to all students, regardless of income. If your child attends a school serving free breakfast or lunch to all students, you can qualify for the EBB program, regardless of your income.
Ready to Sign Up for Your Child’s FREE Emergency Phone?
An emergency cell phone is a must-have for every parent that wants peace of mind knowing their child can contact them if needed.
EASY Wireless makes it simple to see if you qualify for Lifeline service and ACP.
For Personalized Service with an In-Store Customer Service Agent
Come to any one of our 30+ retail locations in Oklahoma and one of our teams will help you to sign up and qualify.
Once you are approved for Lifeline and ACP you will be set up with FREE Unlimited Talk & Text, Free Unlimited Data, and a NEW smartphone before you leave the store.
Speak with an EASY Wireless Customer Service Representative
Call our customer service representatives to sign up at (888) 792-0076. Our hours are Monday to Saturday 9am – 6pm (Eastern Standard Time)
Online Enrollment for Lifeline and ACP
Start Saving Today!
No Teens or Children But Still Have Questions About Lifeline and ACP?
Learn more about “Are Free Touch Screen Government Phones REAL?” and who can qualify.
Seniors looking for a new cell phone or free internet may also be eligible through various programs. Check if you also qualify with EASY Wireless, just click here.
Better Help: Discreet Therapy at Your Fingertips
So you’re more of a discreet person when it comes to your mental health? Let’s talk about BetterHelp.
Affordable Counseling
BetterHelp is an online platform that provides accessible and affordable mental health services. They offer a convenient and discreet way to seek professional support from home.
Sliding Scale Fees for Affordability
A standout feature of BetterHelp is their commitment to making therapy accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. They offer a sliding scale structure, where the cost of sessions is determined based on your income level. This ensures that even those with limited resources could access mental health care.
Confidential and Convenient Online Sessions
BetterHelp’s online platform ensures complete confidentiality, allowing you to engage in therapy sessions with no need for in-person visits. Whether on video calls, messaging, or even phone sessions, you’re able to connect with your mental health professional at a time and place that suits your schedule. This flexibility makes it easier to prioritize your mental well-being while managing other commitments.
Diverse Therapist Network For Personalized Care
With a wide range of licensed professionals specializing in various areas, BetterHelp matches you with a therapist who understands your unique needs and circumstances. Whether you’re seeking support for anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other mental illness, their network ensures you receive personalized care tailored to your specific requirements.
Use Crisis Lines And Warmlines
Crisis hotlines provide free, confidential support 24/7 for people experiencing mental health emergencies. Calling a crisis line connects you with counselors trained to help de-escalate crises.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (dial 988) is a very well-known crisis line available across the United States. Many cities and states also have local crisis hotlines you could call.
Prevention Warmlines
Warmlines offer preventive support before a crisis occurs. Speaking with an empathetic peer on a warmline could help reduce loneliness, provide you with coping strategies, and connect you to community resources for longer-term mental health needs. Unlike hotlines, warmlines are not for acute crises. But they provide a free, non-judgmental space to talk about stressors, emotions, or challenges. Many warmlines are staffed by people with lived experience of mental health issues.
Online Chats
In addition to phone lines, some crisis centers offer free online chat services where you can have real-time text conversations with counselors. Online chats make crisis support more accessible, especially for those who are hard of hearing, deaf, or prefer communicating over text.
No matter which option you choose, crisis and warmlines create vital spaces for people to openly discuss their mental health needs and get connected to care.
Struggling to Afford Mental Health Counseling? Receive Phone Service Benefits With EASY Wireless' Plan!
Seeking mental health support is a daunting task, especially when financial struggles come into play.
EASY Wireless understands this challenge and offers assistance to those who qualify for the Federal Government Lifeline program. With reliable mobile phone and data connectivity service from EASY Wireless, you can easily access telehealth services and connect with licensed counselors from the comfort of your home. Many mental health providers such as BetterHelp now offer virtual sessions, making it more convenient than ever to receive the care you need.
Additional Benefits
Beyond affordable phone access, EASY Wireless’ benefit plan also offers discounted rates on voice and data services. This means you could stay connected with your loved ones and participate in video therapy.
Take Control of Your Well-being
Don’t let financial barriers stand in the way of your mental health. Explore the EASY Wireless’ benefits for the Lifeline program today and take the first step toward a more balanced life.
What Phone Benefits Do I Receive With EASY Wireless?
Upon qualifying for the Lifeline program above on Tribal land with EASY Wireless as your service provider, here are what connectivity benefits you receive:
EASY Wireless Offer:
FREE Smartphone
6 GB High Speed Data
FREE Unlimited Talk
FREE Unlimited Text
FREE SIM Card Kit and Activation
Choose to Keep Your Number or Get a New One
Applying With EASY Wireless
The easiest way to start with EASY Wireless is to apply online by clicking below:
Start Saving Today!
Find Your Nearest EASY Wireless Store
Another way is to come to one of the EASY Wireless’s retail stores, where its customer service support team helps you apply for the benefits.
Either way, the first step is to provide proof of identity with a government-issued ID. This is so you can confirm your participation in one of the qualifying programs or that you meet the income requirement.
