Seven Low-Cost Counseling Services Near Boston
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Mental health resources are notoriously expensive and, often, difficult to find. If you’re struggling to find a provider within your budget, try these local organizations offering low-cost, community-focused counseling, support services, and more.
Brookline Community Mental Health Center: This organization offers a wide range of mental health services, including therapy for adults and children, home- and school-based counseling, crisis intervention, outreach to the homeless, and more. The bulk of its clients qualify as low- or moderate-income, and it provides 10,000 free or reduced-cost visits each year.
41 Garrison Road, Brookline, 617-277-8107, brooklinecenter.org.
Catholic Charities: At its Family Counseling and Guidance Center in Danvers, Catholic Charities of Massachusetts operates a professional and accessible mental health clinic, with satellite sites elsewhere in the Boston area. Catholic Charities also offers refugee, elder, family, youth, interpreter, and shelter support services.
152 Sylvan St., Danvers, 978-774-6820, ccab.org.
Community Legal Services and Counseling Center: In addition to affordable mental health resources, this Cambridge group provides free family, immigration, housing, and disability law assistance. As far as mental health, it offers psychotherapy, refugee and immigrant support, and job coaching for as little as $5 per visit. Some clients may even qualify for pro bono care.
One West St., Cambridge, 617-661-1010, clsacc.org.
Fenway Health: Along with traditional one-on-one behavioral therapy, Fenway Health sponsors an array of support groups that are free to attend. While these sessions do not employ formal psychotherapy, they provide valuable community and aid. There are groups for men living with HIV, LGBTQ people who have experienced abuse, and more.
Locations vary, 617-927-0900, fenwayhealth.org.
Maria Droste Counseling Services: With help from Sisters of the Good Shepherd, Maria Droste offers mental health, substance abuse, and holistic counseling on a sliding pay scale. Fees are determined based on each individual patient’s ability to pay.
1354 Hancock St., Quincy, 617-471-5686, mariadrostecounseling.com.
Refugee and Immigrant Assistance Center: Refugees and immigrants have access to a full slate of services through this nonprofit, including multilingual, community-based counseling. Health education, settlement assistance, social services, and more are also available.
31 Heath St., Jamaica Plain, 617-238-2430, riacboston.org.
Samaritans: If you need help fast, call Samaritans at 877-870-4673. The free 24/7 crisis hotline offers non-judgmental support and conversation to callers who are depressed, lonely, or considering suicide.
877-870-4673, samaritanshope.org.
