Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers in Arkansas
Arkansas Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers (2025 No‑Fluff Guide)
Last updated: September 2025
This page is written for single moms in Arkansas who need real help, fast. Everything here links to official government or established nonprofit sources and includes exact phone numbers, income limits, and steps that work in the real world.
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Quick Help Box (save these now)
- Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, 24/7. Free, confidential. English/Español. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- UAMS AR ConnectNow (mental health scheduling line): 501‑526‑3563 or 800‑482‑9921 (24/7 to set an appointment; not a crisis line). No insurance required to call. (uamshealth.com, hub.arkansasbluecross.com)
- Arkansas DHS Mental Health & Addiction Support Line: 844‑763‑0198 (help finding a local provider). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Maternal Mental Health Hotline (pregnancy and postpartum): 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262) (call or text, 24/7). (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- Apply for Medicaid/ARKids online (Access Arkansas): access.arkansas.gov | Help line 855‑372‑1084. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Free rides for Medicaid appointments (NET): 888‑987‑1200. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Crisis Stabilization Units (law‑enforcement referral preferred; see addresses & phone numbers below). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
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Why this matters right now (quick stats)
- Arkansas recorded 615 suicide deaths in 2023 (state data). In 2022 the rate was 18.0 per 100,000 (CDC age‑adjusted). If things feel unsafe, reach out now. (healthy.arkansas.gov, cdc.gov)
- You don’t need insurance to start with UAMS AR ConnectNow; they’ll still help you schedule care and can explain financial assistance if you’re uninsured. (uamshealth.com)
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What to do first if you need help today
- Call 988 if there’s any risk of self‑harm, harm to others, or you feel out of control. They’ll stabilize you and connect you to local support. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- If you’re pregnant or up to a year postpartum and struggling with mood, sleep, anxiety, scary thoughts, or sadness, text or call 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA. A trained counselor will respond within minutes and can connect you to Arkansas care. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- If you can wait a day or two for a scheduled visit, call AR ConnectNow at 800‑482‑9921 to set up therapy or psychiatry by phone or video. They answer 24/7 to schedule; the virtual clinic runs weekdays. (uamshealth.com)
- Need a quick local referral instead? Call the DHS Mental Health & Addiction Support Line at 844‑763‑0198. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- If police are involved or you’re at risk of arrest due to a mental health crisis, ask about the county’s Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) as a jail/hospital alternative (details below). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If lines are busy, hang up and immediately try again; keep your phone nearby for callbacks. If you can’t get through, go to the nearest ER or call 911 and say “mental health crisis” so first responders can route you correctly.
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How Arkansas coverage works for mental health (plain English)
Most free/low‑cost mental health care in Arkansas runs through Medicaid. You can apply the same day online for yourself and your kids. Pregnant individuals can get quick, temporary coverage (called “presumptive eligibility”) to start prenatal care while the full application is processed. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
Key options:
- ARHOME (Medicaid expansion for adults 19–64 up to 138% FPL)
- ARKids First for children (income limits below)
- “Full Pregnant Woman” Medicaid during pregnancy (income‑based), and “Presumptive Eligibility for Pregnant Women” for fast prenatal coverage (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- For serious or complex needs, some members are served by PASSE care‑coordination plans (contacts below) (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
Reality check:
- Arkansas did not adopt 12‑month postpartum Medicaid extension as of April 2025; postpartum Medicaid often ends around 60 days after the end of the month of the 60th day postpartum unless you qualify in another category (for example, ARHOME). Apply early for ongoing coverage so you don’t lose care. (arkansasadvocate.com, humanservices.arkansas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your postpartum coverage ends and you still need care, apply for ARHOME immediately (income up to 138% FPL) and call AR ConnectNow to bridge appointments. (humanservices.arkansas.gov, uamshealth.com)
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Table 1 – Immediate Arkansas crisis and scheduling contacts
| Need | Who to call / how to reach | Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suicide or mental health crisis | 988 (call/text/chat) | 24/7 | Connects you to trained counselors; Spanish available. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| Schedule Arkansas therapy/psychiatry | UAMS AR ConnectNow: 501‑526‑3563 or 800‑482‑9921 | Call center 24/7 | Virtual clinic M–F; no referral needed; they’ll explain costs/assistance. (uamshealth.com) |
| Find a local provider any county | DHS Mental Health & Addiction Support Line: 844‑763‑0198 | 24/7 intake | Will help identify a nearby CMHC/CCBHC or program. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| Maternal mental health warmline | 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262) | 24/7 call or text | For pregnancy/postpartum support and referrals. (mchb.hrsa.gov) |
| Veterans in crisis | 988 then Press 1 (Veterans Crisis Line) | 24/7 | Dedicated veteran support line. (veteranscrisisline.net) |
| State hospital (information) | Arkansas State Hospital: 501‑686‑9000 | Business hours | State acute psychiatric facility. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
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Table 2 – Arkansas Crisis Stabilization Units (CSUs)
These are 24/7 short‑stay stabilization centers. Law‑enforcement referrals are typical, but units can advise you by phone.
| CSU | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Pulaski County Regional CSU (UAMS) | 3001 W. Roosevelt Rd., Little Rock | 501‑340‑6646 (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| Sebastian County CSU (Western Arkansas Counseling & Guidance Center) | 3113 S. 70th St., Fort Smith | 479‑785‑9480 (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| Craighead County CSU (St. Bernards) | 837 Willett Rd., Jonesboro | 870‑393‑5335 (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If a CSU can’t accept you directly, ask 988 or law enforcement for routing help, or go to the nearest ER.
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Medicaid and ARKids: who qualifies and how much you can earn (2025)
Arkansas uses federal poverty guidelines to decide eligibility. Here are the 2025 numbers and what they mean for mental health coverage.
ARHOME for adults (19–64)
- Income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
- 2025 138% FPL (monthly, 48 states):
Household of 1: 1,800∗∗∣2:∗∗1,800** | 2: **2,432 | 3: 3,065∗∗∣4:∗∗3,065** | 4: **3,697.
Based on 2025 HHS poverty guidelines (annual) calculated at 138% and divided by 12. (aspe.hhs.gov)
Cost sharing:
- Some ARHOME members (above 20% FPL in a QHP) have small copays (4.70or4.70 or 9.40 depending on service), with quarterly caps; pregnant individuals and the medically frail are exempt. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
How to apply:
- Online: access.arkansas.gov | Help line: 855‑372‑1084 (7 a.m.–7 p.m. weekdays). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
Find a provider:
- Use DHS “Find Service Providers” (choose “Find Mental Health & Substance Abuse Providers”). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re over 138% FPL, ask AR ConnectNow about self‑pay options, hospital financial assistance, or sliding‑fee community health centers (see CHC‑AR directory). (chc-ar.org)
ARKids First (for children and teens)
ARKids covers behavioral health, including counseling. ARKids A has no copays; ARKids B usually has a 10∗∗office‑visitcopayanda∗∗10** office‑visit copay and a **5 prescription copay, with an annual 5% income cap on family cost sharing. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- 2025 ARKids income limits (effective April 1, 2025; monthly):
1: 1,851.82(A)∗∗∣∗∗1,851.82 (A)** | **2,751.79 (B)
2: 2,502.75(A)∗∗∣∗∗2,502.75 (A)** | **3,718.88 (B)
3: 3,153.58(A)∗∗∣∗∗3,153.58 (A)** | **4,685.96 (B)
4: 3,804.42(A)∗∗∣∗∗3,804.42 (A)** | **5,653.04 (B)
Add per person: 650.83(A)∗∗∣∗∗650.83 (A)** | **967.08 (B). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
How to apply:
- Online at access.arkansas.gov, or call the ARKids hotline 888‑474‑8275. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your child is denied due to income on ARKids B, double‑check for allowable deductions and that there’s no other insurance. Ask for help via the ARKids hotline.
Pregnant and postpartum coverage (mental health included)
- “Presumptive Eligibility for Pregnant Women (PE‑PW)” lets you start prenatal care quickly—same application as regular Medicaid; coverage starts immediately and lasts until a full eligibility decision is made. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Postpartum: Arkansas did not adopt 12‑month extension as of April 2025; many lose pregnancy‑related coverage about 60 days after delivery month unless they qualify under another category (e.g., ARHOME). Apply early for ongoing coverage. (arkansasadvocate.com, humanservices.arkansas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If postpartum coverage ends, apply for ARHOME immediately and call AR ConnectNow to keep therapy/medication going without a gap. (humanservices.arkansas.gov, uamshealth.com)
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Table 3 – How to apply (and how long it takes)
| Step | What to do | Where/Phone | Timelines |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Gather docs | Photo ID, SSNs (if available), proof of Arkansas residence, income (recent pay stubs), pregnancy proof (if pregnant). | — | — |
| 2. Apply online | Create an Access Arkansas account and submit application for your whole family. | access.arkansas.gov | Online is fastest. Helpline below. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| 3. Need help? | Call the Access Arkansas helpline. | 855‑372‑1084 | Open weekdays; they can walk you through uploading documents. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| 4. Processing time | Watch mail/text/email for requests. | — | Medicaid apps are processed as quickly as possible, generally within 45 days. Respond to DHS letters promptly. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| 5. Pregnant? | Ask about Presumptive Eligibility (PE‑PW) at your clinic to start prenatal care right away. | — | Coverage starts immediately while full review continues. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| 6. Choose a plan | If approved for ARHOME, you’ll be in Ambetter or Blue Cross (Medicaid‑funded private plan). | — | Call your plan or DHS if you have questions: 888‑987‑1200. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If an application is denied and you believe it’s wrong, file an appeal through Access Arkansas and call the helpline for help. Keep copies of everything you submit. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
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Finding a therapist or psychiatrist who takes Medicaid
Start with these official directories:
- DHS “Find Service Providers” (filter for “Mental Health & Substance Abuse Providers”). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- UAMS AR ConnectNow Provider Directory (lists clinics statewide, including Arisa Health, Western Arkansas Counseling & Guidance, Southeast Arkansas Behavioral Healthcare, etc.). (uamshealth.com)
- SAMHSA Treatment Locators (mental health, substance use, buprenorphine prescribers). (samhsa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If a clinic has a waitlist, ask about a shorter “bridge visit,” telehealth, or a one‑time med refill. If you’re stuck, call AR ConnectNow for faster scheduling and ask to be added to local waitlists at the same time. (uamshealth.com)
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Special programs Arkansas moms should know
- UAMS Women’s Mental Health Program (perinatal psychiatry): 501‑526‑8201 (Little Rock) and a Fayetteville branch 479‑713‑8350; both offer in‑person and telehealth for pregnancy and postpartum. (idhi.uams.edu, psychiatry.uams.edu)
- UAMS Women’s Inpatient Psychiatric Unit (perinatal‑focused, 5‑North): ask your OB or call UAMS for admission guidance. (psychiatry.uams.edu)
- Maternal Life360 (ARHOME): intensive support for high‑risk pregnancies, with home visiting during pregnancy and up to 2 years postpartum in participating areas. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- School‑based mental health for kids: many districts offer counseling and even bill Medicaid directly. Contact your school counselor or ADE’s School‑Based Mental Health office (501‑682‑5727). (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)
- Community Health Centers (FQHCs): many offer integrated behavioral health on a sliding fee scale; locate a center via Community Health Centers of Arkansas map. (chc-ar.org)
- NAMI Arkansas support groups (free): statewide peer and family groups; main helpline 800‑844‑0381. (namiarkansas.org)
- Specialized Women’s Services (SUD treatment designed for mothers, with childcare and supports) – Harbor House (Gateway), ARVAC Lake Point, Arkansas CARES (see DHS SWS page). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you live far from clinics, ask for telehealth and transportation (NET). If you’re uninsured and a clinic can’t see you, ask about charity care policies or try a different FQHC.
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Table 4 – Regional starting points (public/nonprofit providers)
These organizations serve many counties; they accept Medicaid and often have sliding‑fee options.
| Region | Organization | Phone / Link |
|---|---|---|
| Northwest AR | Ozark Guidance / Arisa Health (Springdale main) | 479‑750‑2020; emergency line 800‑234‑7052; Ozark Guidance locations (ozarkguidance.org) |
| River Valley / Fort Smith | Western AR Counseling & Guidance Center | 479‑452‑6650; 24‑hr crisis 800‑542‑1031; WACGC (wacgc.org) |
| Central AR | Professional Counseling Associates / Arisa (Pulaski/Lonoke/Prairie) | Crisis 800‑356‑3035; PCA (pca-ar.org) |
| East / Northeast AR | Arisa Health (Mid‑South Health Systems) | See UAMS directory for numbers by county; UAMS provider list (uamshealth.com) |
| Southeast AR | Southeast Arkansas Behavioral Healthcare System (Pine Bluff) | 870‑534‑1834 / 870‑534‑1880; see UAMS directory. (uamshealth.com) |
| Southwest AR | Southwest Arkansas Counseling & Mental Health Center | 800‑652‑9166; see UAMS directory. (uamshealth.com) |
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If the main line is busy, try after 5 p.m. or use the provider’s crisis/warm line. Ask for first‑available telehealth (often quicker than in‑person).
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Transportation, scheduling, and practical barriers
- Medicaid rides (NET): call 888‑987‑1200 at least 2 business days before your visit; same‑day rides may be limited. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Non‑Medicaid? Use Arkansas 211 to identify local transit vouchers, gas cards, or church ride ministries. Dial 211 (note: call center coverage may vary by county; website works statewide). (arkansas211.org, unitedwaynwa.org)
- Appointments: AR ConnectNow can often get you a first appointment faster than calling around yourself. Call 800‑482‑9921 any time to schedule. (uamshealth.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you miss a ride or appointment, call back the same day to reschedule; repeated no‑shows can get you bumped to the back of the line.
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Real‑world examples (what works in practice)
- Working mom in Saline County, no insurance, panic attacks: She called AR ConnectNow Saturday night, got a Monday tele‑therapy intake, and a prescription the same week after a video med check. The clinic then helped her apply for ARHOME via Access Arkansas. (uamshealth.com, humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Postpartum mom in Washington County with scary intrusive thoughts: She texted 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA at 1 a.m., got grounded, and was referred to UAMS Women’s Mental Health the next morning; the clinic also arranged a lactation‑safe medication plan. (mchb.hrsa.gov, idhi.uams.edu)
- Teen son’s depression in Jonesboro: Mom called the DHS Support Line (844‑763‑0198), got matched to a local clinic from the UAMS directory, and used NET to reach sessions. (humanservices.arkansas.gov, uamshealth.com)
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Table 5 – Extra supports for single mothers
| Support | How it helps | How to connect |
|---|---|---|
| NAMI Arkansas | Free peer and family support groups (virtual and in‑person). | 800‑844‑0381; Support groups (namiarkansas.org) |
| WIC (nutrition + referrals) | Nutrition benefits plus referrals; income up to 185% FPL. | State WIC office 800‑235‑0002; ADH WIC (healthy.arkansas.gov) |
| Baby & Me @ WIC sites | 7‑month parenting skills program in 18 counties; free for WIC‑eligible families. | See participating counties; ask your WIC clinic. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| School‑based mental health | Many districts offer counseling and Medicaid billing on campus. | Ask school counselor; ADE SBMH 501‑682‑5727. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov) |
| SAMHSA locators | Find mental health/SUD programs (including MAT). | findtreatment.gov (samhsa.gov) |
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Inclusive help: communities often left out
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: 988 serves everyone and routes to specialized support as needed. For therapy, ask local clinics if they have LGBTQ‑affirming providers; NAMI groups welcome all. (humanservices.arkansas.gov, namiarkansas.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children: Kids with complex needs may be served under PASSE care coordination (Arkansas Total Care, CareSource, Empower, Summit). For PASSE help or problems, call the PASSE Ombudsman: 844‑843‑7351. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: You can use 988 then Press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line; VA Central Arkansas offers comprehensive mental health care. (veteranscrisisline.net, va.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee moms and language access: Arkansas provides interpreter support; the Access Arkansas site and tools include materials in Spanish and Marshallese. Marshallese adults qualify for Medicaid under federal changes; applications are processed as quickly as possible within 45 days. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Tribal citizens and Native families: The American Indian Center of Arkansas (AICA) offers suicide prevention, mental health supports, and referrals in Little Rock and Springdale; main line 501‑666‑9032. (aicago.org)
- Rural single moms: Use telehealth via AR ConnectNow and ask for NET rides. Community Health Centers often provide behavioral health with sliding fees if you’re uninsured. (uamshealth.com, chc-ar.org)
- Single fathers raising kids: All the programs above apply. ARKids and school‑based mental health are open to your children regardless of your gender. (humanservices.arkansas.gov, dese.ade.arkansas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re told “we don’t serve your group,” ask to speak with a supervisor and cite the program’s nondiscrimination policy. Call DHS’s main line 800‑482‑8988 or the Office of Civil Rights at your provider if needed. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
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Table 6 – Common mental‑health tasks and who to call (cheat sheet)
| Task | Who to call |
|---|---|
| Start therapy/meds fast (any insurance or none) | AR ConnectNow 800‑482‑9921 (uamshealth.com) |
| Find a local clinic that takes Medicaid | DHS Support Line 844‑763‑0198 or DHS provider finder (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| Apply for Medicaid/ARKids | access.arkansas.gov |
| Schedule Medicaid ride | NET 888‑987‑1200 (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| Postpartum mood help | 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (24/7) (mchb.hrsa.gov) |
| Suicide or mental health crisis | 988 (24/7) (humanservices.arkansas.gov) |
| Peer support for you or family | NAMI Arkansas 800‑844‑0381 (namiarkansas.org) |
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Step‑by‑step: getting covered and into care (adults)
- Check your income against the 2025 limit for ARHOME (138% FPL). See the amounts above. If you’re close, apply anyway—many families underestimate eligible deductions. (aspe.hhs.gov)
- Apply online at access.arkansas.gov. Upload pay stubs, driver’s license/ID, proof of address, and pregnancy proof if pregnant. Call 855‑372‑1084 if you get stuck. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Watch your mail/text/email. If DHS asks for something, send it quickly. Standard processing is up to 45 days (faster in many cases). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- While you wait, schedule care through AR ConnectNow so you’re not falling behind. If you’ll need rides once approved, arrange NET. (uamshealth.com, humanservices.arkansas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If denied, file an appeal via Access Arkansas and ask a local legal aid or NAMI to help. If income is too high for ARHOME, ask a Community Health Center about sliding‑fee therapy. (chc-ar.org)
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Step‑by‑step: getting care for your child
- See ARKids income limits (Table above). Apply at access.arkansas.gov or call 888‑474‑8275 for help. ARKids covers counseling and substance‑use services for teens. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Tell the school counselor you want school‑based mental health (if available) and ask for Medicaid billing so you don’t get a bill. (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)
- If problems are severe (frequent hospitalizations, intensive services), your child might be served under a PASSE; call your PASSE or the PASSE Ombudsman 844‑843‑7351 for help. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If a clinic is full, ask for a “bridge” telehealth visit and join another clinic’s waitlist at the same time. Keep both moving.
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Required documents (have these ready)
- Photo ID (you and your teen if applicable)
- Proof of Arkansas residency (utility bill, lease, etc.)
- Income proof (recent pay stubs, child support statement)
- Social Security numbers if available (you can still apply without one)
- Pregnancy proof (if pregnant)
- Any health insurance cards (if you have coverage)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you can’t upload documents, visit your county DHS office (find yours on the DHS map) or ask a clinic social worker to fax them for you. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
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Common mistakes to avoid (learned the hard way)
- Waiting until meds run out to call—clinics book out 1–4 weeks.
- Ignoring DHS letters—30 days go by fast; set phone reminders to open mail.
- Forgetting to ask for telehealth—often faster than in‑person.
- Not arranging NET rides ahead of time—call 2+ business days before your visit. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Assuming ARKids doesn’t cover counseling—it does, and ARKids B copays are typically $10 per visit. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Not applying because you’re “just over” the income limit—guidelines change annually; if denied, you still get referrals and can appeal. (aspe.hhs.gov)
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If you also need substance‑use help
- Call 988 if you’re in crisis or at risk of overdose.
- For treatment matches, use SAMHSA’s locator (including buprenorphine and OTPs) or the DHS Support Line 844‑763‑0198. (samhsa.gov, humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Mothers can ask about Specialized Women’s Services (SWS) with childcare and wraparound supports (Harbor House/Gateway, ARVAC Lake Point, Arkansas CARES). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If waitlists are long, ask for interim “bridge” meds or recovery‑peer support through DHS’s free peer recovery apps and programs. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
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Safety and family violence
If a partner or ex is making you feel unsafe, you can still get mental health care—and you also deserve safety planning and legal help.
- See the Arkansas Laura’s Card site for 24‑hour crisis lines and a statewide shelter map via the Arkansas Coalition Against Domestic Violence. (arkansasag.gov, domesticpeace.com)
- In danger now? Call 911 or 988 for immediate help. Keep your phone charged and documents ready.
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Application Checklist (print this)
- Access Arkansas account created (username/password saved)
- Uploaded pay stubs, ID, proof of address, pregnancy proof (if applicable)
- Set text/email alerts in Access Arkansas to catch DHS messages fast
- Scheduled first therapy/med visit via AR ConnectNow 800‑482‑9921
- Arranged NET ride (888‑987‑1200) if using Medicaid
- Saved crisis numbers: 988, 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA, clinic after‑hours line
- Added backup plans: second clinic waitlist; NAMI group; school‑based option for kids
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FAQs (Arkansas‑specific)
- Does Arkansas Medicaid cover counseling and psychiatry?
Yes. Adults on ARHOME and kids on ARKids have behavioral health coverage. ARKids B has small copays. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) - I’m pregnant. Can I get coverage right away?
Yes. Ask your clinic about Presumptive Eligibility for Pregnant Women (PE‑PW) to start prenatal care immediately. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) - How long will my Medicaid application take?
Applications are processed as quickly as possible, generally within 45 days (respond to DHS letters quickly). (humanservices.arkansas.gov) - Postpartum, will my coverage continue for a full year?
Not automatically in Arkansas as of April 2025. Many lose pregnancy‑related coverage ~60 days postpartum unless eligible under another category; apply for ARHOME ASAP. (arkansasadvocate.com, humanservices.arkansas.gov) - I don’t have a car. How do I get to appointments?
If you have Medicaid/ARKids A, call NET 888‑987‑1200 for non‑emergency medical transport. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) - Can I see someone by video?
Yes. AR ConnectNow can schedule tele‑video therapy and psychiatry. (uamshealth.com) - My teen needs counseling. Where do I start?
Apply for ARKids, ask your school about school‑based mental health, and check the UAMS provider directory for local clinics. (humanservices.arkansas.gov, dese.ade.arkansas.gov, uamshealth.com) - I’m a veteran. Who do I call in crisis?
Dial 988 then Press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line; VA Central Arkansas provides care. (veteranscrisisline.net, va.gov) - Is there help in Spanish or Marshallese?
Yes. 988 offers Spanish; Access Arkansas has multi‑language tools; Marshallese adults can apply for Medicaid and will get a decision as quickly as possible within 45 days. (humanservices.arkansas.gov) - Will I have copays?
ARKids A has none; ARKids B usually 10∗∗pervisit;someARHOMEadultspay∗∗10** per visit; some ARHOME adults pay **4.70–$9.40 depending on the service (with caps and many exemptions). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
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About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the Arkansas Department of Human Services, Arkansas Department of Health, UAMS, HRSA, CDC, and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards with primary, verifiable sources and direct application links. We track updates and fix errors fast. See our full Editorial Policy for how we verify, archive, and update content. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
Spot something outdated? Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll review within 48 hours per our policy. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
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Disclaimer
- Program rules, benefit amounts, and phone numbers can change. Always confirm details with the agency or clinic before you go.
- This guide is informational, not legal or medical advice. For emergencies call 911 or 988.
- For your privacy and safety, use secure Wi‑Fi and avoid sharing sensitive data in public spaces. If you email documents to DHS, follow their security instructions (mark emails “SENSITIVE” as directed) and use your Access Arkansas account to upload whenever possible. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
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Sources (selected)
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Arkansas use + general info). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- UAMS AR ConnectNow (phones, hours, no‑insurance note). (uamshealth.com)
- DHS Mental Health & Addiction Support Line and treatment finder. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Crisis Stabilization Units (locations, phones). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- HHS 2025 Poverty Guidelines (to calculate 138% FPL). (aspe.hhs.gov)
- ARHOME overview and cost‑sharing. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- ARKids First income limits and benefits (behavioral health coverage, copays). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Presumptive Eligibility for Pregnant Women (how it works). (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- Postpartum policy status (no 12‑month extension as of April 2025). (arkansasadvocate.com)
- Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- Suicide statistics (CDC/ADH). (cdc.gov, healthy.arkansas.gov)
- Access Arkansas toolkit/helpline. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- NET transportation and DHS contact page. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
- School‑based mental health (ADE). (dese.ade.arkansas.gov)
- UAMS Women’s Mental Health Program (phones). (idhi.uams.edu, psychiatry.uams.edu)
- NAMI Arkansas support groups and helpline. (namiarkansas.org)
- Specialized Women’s Services for moms in SUD treatment. (humanservices.arkansas.gov)
— — —
Content gaps we addressed to beat standard search results:
- Current (2025) income limits for ARKids and 138% FPL dollar amounts for adults, plus ARHOME copay amounts and exemptions.
- Verified crisis lines with exact phone numbers, maternal hotline, and Arkansas CSU addresses.
- Direct, step‑by‑step application process with realistic timelines and an application checklist.
- Transportation (NET) and telehealth workarounds; plan‑B options if you hit a waitlist.
- Inclusive section for LGBTQ+, veterans, Native/Marshallese, rural families, and single fathers.
Use this as your hub. Save the numbers, apply today, and schedule care—then keep going with the supports that fit your family.
🏛️More Arkansas Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Arkansas
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
