The Mental Health Commissioner independently monitors and advocates for improvements to mental health and addiction services, under delegation from the Health and Disability Commissioner.We advocate for improvements to mental health and addiction services by:
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Services Offered
* Making decisions in relation to complaints about mental health and addiction services. * Providing independent comment and recommendations for service improvement at any level of the system where we identify the need for action, including to the Minister of Health, Ministry of Health, and Mental health and addiction service funders, planners, and providers. * Preparing submissions on major legislative or policy initiatives in relation to mental health and addiction services. * Presenting and providing sector updates.
Mental health and addiction services - If you feel unwell, or want help for a mental health or addiction need, your best starting point is usually your GP (family doctor). GPs are trained to assess, treat, and manage many mental health issues. Your GP can refer you to your local community mental health or addiction service or elsewhere if needed, or your GP may be able to help you to manage your illness.
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One quick last question. Who was seeking counseling today?
Do you know the reason they are not accepting clients?
A community counseling agency is a group therapy practice that offers affordable mental health services. Most are independent non-profit agencies, state agencies, or publicly-funded agencies. A few may restrict who is eligible for services, so it is a good idea to check when you call.
Community counseling agencies are generally more affordable than other therapy providers, but how much more affordable they are will depend on whether you qualify for a discount or sliding scale fee (or if they accept your insurance). Many, but not all, have a policy that they won't turn away anyone due to inability to pay. You should ask about their fees when you first call.
Expect to talk to kind people who want to help you find the care you need. Most community agencies strive to connect you with a live person within 24 hours, if not immediately. If you're asked to hold or leave a message, don't give up; just leave a message and wait. You should hear back pretty quickly.
Most agencies try to set up an initial assessment appointment within a week (some do within 24 hours), though the waitlist to start therapy is usually longer—about a few weeks on average. If you're not eligible or if the agency is not right for you, it's usually still worth it to call or drop in, because staff are knowledgeable about local options and can often refer you to one.