Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers in New Jersey
New Jersey Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers (2025 No‑Fluff Guide)
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, state‑specific hub for single moms in New Jersey who need mental health help—for themselves or their kids—right now. It uses only official sources and established nonprofits, with direct phone numbers, exact eligibility rules, and step‑by‑step actions. See “About This Guide” and the Disclaimer at the end for transparency and update cadence.
Quick Help Box (save these)
- Call or text 988 for 24/7 suicide and mental health crisis support. New Jersey routes calls to in‑state Lifeline centers; chat is available at 988lifeline.org. State 988 overview (NJ DHS DMHAS). (nj.gov)
- New Jersey Mental Health Cares helpline (info, referrals, and supportive listening): 866‑202‑HELP (4357), daily live staff 8 a.m.‑8 p.m.; messages returned after hours. About and hours. (njmentalhealthcares.org)
- County psychiatric screening centers (24/7 emergency evaluations): use the hotline list in “County Crisis Lines” below; for example, Bergen 201‑262‑4357, Hudson (primary) 866‑367‑6023, Camden 856‑428‑4357. Official statewide PDF, updated June 13, 2025. (nj.gov)
- For your child (up to 21): Call PerformCare 24/7 at 877‑652‑7624 for Mobile Response (aims to arrive within 1 hour) and Children’s System of Care services. PerformCare emergency services and MRSS details. (performcarenj.org)
- Postpartum mental health support (perinatal mood/anxiety disorders): NJ Family Health Line 800‑328‑3838 (Mon‑Fri, 8 a.m.–6 p.m.). NJ Department of Health PMAD page. (nj.gov)
- Domestic violence (confidential, 24/7): 800‑572‑SAFE (7233). NJ DCF Domestic Violence Hotline. (nj.gov)
- Sexual assault (confidential, 24/7): 800‑601‑7200. NJCASA statewide hotline and find‑help page. (njcasa.org)
- Health insurance (Medicaid/NJ FamilyCare): Apply online, phone 800‑701‑0710 (TTY 711), or in person; see income limits below. NJ FamilyCare apply page. (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | First step | Key contacts | What to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crisis right now | Call or text 988 | 988; or county screening center (see tables) | NJ funds in‑state Lifeline centers; you can get local referrals after stabilization. (nj.gov) |
| Adult support and referrals | Call NJ Mental Health Cares | 866‑202‑4357 | Live 8 a.m.–8 p.m. daily; callbacks after hours; multi‑lingual. (njmentalhealthcares.org) |
| Child/teen behavior or mental health | Call PerformCare | 877‑652‑7624 | MRSS aims for in‑home response within 1 hour, up to 8 weeks stabilization. (performcarenj.org) |
| Postpartum depression/anxiety | Call NJ Family Health Line | 800‑328‑3838 | State helpline; also see national Maternal Mental Health Hotline below. (nj.gov) |
| Insurance (Medicaid/NJ FamilyCare) | Apply online | 800‑701‑0710 | Adults up to 138% FPL; pregnant people up to 205% FPL; kids up to 355% FPL. (nj.gov, nj.gov) |
| Low‑cost clinics | Find an FQHC near you | NJDOH FQHC locator | Sliding‑fee; no one turned away for inability to pay. (nj.gov) |
| Substance use concerns | ReachNJ (24/7) | 844‑732‑2465 | Live NJ‑based staff; connections regardless of insurance. (nj.gov) |
| Advocacy & support groups | NAMI NJ Helpline | 866‑626‑4664 | Peer support, system navigation (not a crisis line). (naminj.org) |
What’s new in 2025 (good to know before you start)
- NJ is “carving in” more behavioral health under managed care. Phase 1 of Behavioral Health Integration under NJ FamilyCare went live on January 1, 2025, with more phases coming. That means your Medicaid MCO is increasingly the single point for physical and mental health benefits and provider networks. If you’re enrolled, call your plan for in‑network mental health providers. DMHAS BH Integration overview and member resources. (nj.gov)
- NJ codified 12‑month Medicaid postpartum coverage. Legislation reported March 17, 2025 confirms Medicaid/NJ FamilyCare covers pregnant individuals for 365 days postpartum. Assembly Aging & Human Services Statement to S‑3934 (3/17/2025). (pub.njleg.state.nj.us)
- NJ and DOH announced a proposed integrated outpatient license to let clinics offer primary care + mental health + addiction services under one roof, aiming to simplify access. NJDOH 4/2/2025 release and NJ DHS 4/2/2025. (nj.gov)
Start Here: If you need help today
- If you’re in immediate danger or at risk of harming yourself: call 988 or go to the nearest ER. 988 connects you to trained counselors; New Jersey funds in‑state coverage and is building out mobile crisis and stabilization centers. NJ 988 overview. (nj.gov)
- If you feel unsafe at home: call the NJ Domestic Violence Hotline 800‑572‑SAFE (7233) or NJCASA 800‑601‑7200 for sexual assault support. Both are 24/7 and confidential. NJ DCF Domestic Violence Hotlines; NJCASA Find Help. (nj.gov, njcasa.org)
- If you’re overwhelmed but not in immediate danger: call NJ Mental Health Cares 866‑202‑4357 for referrals to low‑cost counseling, support groups, and state‑funded community services. NJMHC Contact & hours. (njmentalhealthcares.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Try a county psychiatric screening center (24/7) from the tables below for same‑day evaluation.
- If lines are busy, call 988 and ask for local resources; counselors can warm‑transfer you.
- If you have insurance through NJ FamilyCare, call your plan’s member services for an in‑network therapist and ask about telehealth same‑week options. BH Integration in 2025 means more mental health services are handled directly by your MCO. BH Integration member info. (nj.gov)
Insurance That Pays for Mental Health Care: NJ FamilyCare (Medicaid/CHIP)
Most single moms qualify for free or low‑cost coverage through NJ FamilyCare. Here’s who qualifies in 2025 and how to apply.
Who qualifies in 2025 (income limits)
- Adults (age 19–64): income up to 138% FPL. NJ DHS lists examples using 2025 guidelines: about 1,800/month∗∗foroneperson;∗∗1,800/month** for one person; **3,698/month for a family of four. NJ DHS Adults page (2025 guidelines). (nj.gov)
- Pregnant people: income up to 205% FPL (covered during pregnancy and for 12 months postpartum). NJ DHS confirms the 205% threshold; 2025 FPL amounts below are calculated directly from HHS. NJ DHS pregnant women page; 205% policy; 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines. (nj.gov, aspe.hhs.gov)
- Children: Medicaid up to 147% FPL and CHIP up to 355% FPL. NJ’s “Cover All Kids” removed CHIP premiums and covers kids regardless of immigration status. NJFamCare Who Is Eligible; Cover All Kids FAQs + premiums eliminated; NJ Human Services press release on eliminating CHIP premiums. (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us, nj.gov)
Table: 2025 income guide (monthly), calculated from official 2025 FPL and state rules
| Household | Adults 138% FPL | Pregnant 205% FPL | Child Medicaid ≤147% FPL | Child CHIP ≤355% FPL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,800/mo (state example) | $2,674/mo | $1,919/mo | $4,629/mo |
| 2 | **2,432/mo∗∗(calc≈2,432/mo** (calc ≈ 29,187/yr) | $3,609/mo | $2,589/mo | $6,253/mo |
| 3 | **3,065/mo∗∗(calc≈3,065/mo** (calc ≈ 36,777/yr) | $4,544/mo | $3,259/mo | $7,877/mo |
| 4 | $3,698/mo (state example) | $5,487/mo | $3,929/mo | $9,500/mo |
| 5 | **4,330/mo∗∗(calc≈4,330/mo** (calc ≈ 51,957/yr) | $6,422/mo | $4,599/mo | $11,124/mo |
Notes:
- Adult monthly figures in bold for 1 and 4 equal NJ DHS examples; other rows are computed from the official annual limits used by Legal Services of NJ for 2025 (rounded to nearest dollar). LSNJ 2025 NJ FamilyCare income levels. 2025 FPL source: HHS/ASPE. (lsnjlaw.org, aspe.hhs.gov)
- Pregnant 205% monthly limits are calculated from 2025 FPL; policy basis (205%) cited above. (nj.gov)
- Children’s thresholds (147%/355%) and “no CHIP premiums” come from NJ DHS/Cover All Kids. (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us, nj.gov)
How to apply fast
- Apply online (recommended) or by phone 800‑701‑0710 (TTY 711). You can also get in‑person help via the “Need Help Enrolling?” county list. NJ FamilyCare Apply + Enroll Help | Need help enrolling? (county offices). (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us)
- If you may also need SNAP/TANF, you can apply at your County Board of Social Services; DFD lists direct phone lines and addresses by county (example: Hudson 201‑420‑3000, Gloucester 856‑582‑9200, Cape May 609‑886‑6200, Ocean 732‑349‑1500—new consolidated location effective August/September 2025). NJ DFD County Offices. (nj.gov)
Documents you’ll likely need (keep these ready)
- Photo ID, proof of NJ residency, Social Security numbers (if available), immigration status (if any), proof of income (recent pay stubs, self‑employment), pregnancy confirmation if applying as pregnant, and existing insurance info if any. See the Application Checklist on the NJ FamilyCare site. Apply page (Checklist linked). (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us)
Timelines and what to expect
- State rules call for an application decision within 30 days for most NJ FamilyCare applications and 90 days if it’s based on disability. For the Children’s Program (CHIP/Medicaid for kids), the Admin Code also sets 30 days. (Real‑world processing can run longer if documents are missing—see mistakes section.) [NJ Admin. Code 10:78‑2.1; 10:79‑2.3]. (casetext.com)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Forgetting to upload income proof and ID—this is the #1 delay.
- Not reporting pregnancy on an existing case (you may gain extra benefits and 12‑month postpartum coverage).
- Missing mail from your MCO (network assignment letters/ID cards). Use the portal to track status.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Call 800‑701‑0710 and ask a Health Benefits Coordinator to review your application for missing items.
- If denied, request a written notice and appeal rights; consider calling Legal Services of NJ for free advice: 888‑576‑5529. LSNJ. (lsnjlaw.org)
- While waiting, use a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) for sliding‑fee counseling and primary care; search by county on NJDOH’s site. FQHC locator. (nj.gov)
For Your Child or Teen: Children’s System of Care (CSOC)
Most important action: Call PerformCare at 877‑652‑7624 any time. You’ll complete intake, and if urgent, Mobile Response and Stabilization Services (MRSS) can come to your home—goal is within 1 hour—and provide up to 8 weeks of stabilization services. PerformCare emergency services/MRSS. (performcarenj.org)
- Who’s eligible: Youth typically ages 5–21 (under 21st birthday) with emotional/behavioral health needs; special consideration for under 5. Services are authorized without regard to income or insurance, though you’ll be asked to complete a Medicaid application as part of care coordination. PerformCare eligibility; DCF CSOC overview. (performcarenj.org, nj.gov)
- After crisis: Depending on needs, families may be connected to a Care Management Organization (CMO) and your county Family Support Organization (peer support for caregivers). Find statewide FSO info here. NJ Alliance of Family Support Organizations. (njfamilyalliance.org)
Required documents
- Insurance (if any), youth’s info (DOB, address), and a short description of current concerns.
Realistic timeline
- Phone intake immediately; MRSS same‑day when authorized; ongoing care management can take several days to weeks to line up providers.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting for an appointment while your child escalates; call MRSS if urgency increases.
- Not answering unknown numbers after intake—CMO and providers may call from different lines.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Use your county psychiatric screening center (see tables) if risk rises.
- If you have private insurance, also ask your plan for an in‑network child therapist while CSOC starts up.
Adult Outpatient Care and Family Supports
Start with the easiest doors:
- NJ Mental Health Cares 866‑202‑4357 can search the state‑funded directory and warm‑transfer you to providers. About NJMHC. (njmentalhealthcares.org)
- DMHAS online directories list state‑funded mental health programs by county and program type. DMHAS treatment directories and hotlines page. (nj.gov)
- NAMI New Jersey Helpline 866‑626‑4664 (M–F, 9–4) offers peer support, support group info, and navigation tips for families. NAMI NJ Helpline. (naminj.org)
- Intensive Family Support Services (IFSS): Free support/education for families of adults with serious mental illness—available in every county, funded by NJ DMHAS (delivered by local nonprofits). See county contacts (e.g., Union County via MHANJ, Monmouth via MHAMC). NAMI NJ IFSS directory. (naminj.org)
Low‑cost clinics (sliding fee)
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) provide behavioral health and primary care; search by county/city. NJDOH FQHC locator. (nj.gov)
- Rutgers UBHC Access Center: for appointments at UBHC clinics, call 800‑969‑5300. UBHC Access Center. (ubhc.rutgers.edu)
What insurance covers
- NJ FamilyCare covers mental health and substance use care. In 2025, NJ is integrating more behavioral health into MCOs—use your plan’s provider search or call for help finding a therapist. DMHAS BH Integration. (nj.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Calling only one clinic; put in multiple intake requests.
- Skipping FQHCs—many have counseling and psychiatry with shorter waits.
- Not asking about telehealth or audio‑only options if transportation or childcare is an issue. (NJ state policy has supported parity for behavioral health telehealth; always verify your plan’s current rules.) Governor’s telehealth parity release 12/22/2021. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Call NJ Mental Health Cares to identify another provider or ask for a warm transfer.
- If symptoms worsen, call 988 or your county screening center for 24/7 crisis evaluation.
Postpartum and Maternal Mental Health
Most important action: If you’re pregnant or within a year after delivery and feel depressed, anxious, panicky, or not yourself, call 800‑328‑3838 (NJ Family Health Line) for guidance, support groups, and referrals. NJDOH PMAD page. (nj.gov)
- National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (24/7, English/Spanish with interpreters): 833‑TLC‑MAMA (833‑852‑6262) (call or text). HRSA Hotline FAQ. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- Insurance note: NJ FamilyCare covers pregnancy and 12 months postpartum; in 2025 the 12‑month coverage is codified. If you become pregnant while enrolled, notify NJ FamilyCare immediately to unlock pregnancy/postpartum benefits. NJ DHS pregnancy coverage page; 12 months postpartum; S‑3934 3/17/2025 statement. (nj.gov, pub.njleg.state.nj.us)
- Local perinatal connections by county: Call your county’s “Connecting NJ” number to get linked to maternal health and mental health services, home visiting, and supports. (Examples: Bergen 973‑942‑3630 x11, Hudson 201‑876‑8900 x221, Mercer/Middlesex/Somerset/Hunterdon 888‑551‑6217, Monmouth/Ocean 877‑352‑7843.) Connecting NJ county list. (nj.gov)
Realistic timeline
- Hotline support is immediate; outpatient therapy scheduling depends on clinic capacity (often 1–3 weeks). Use telehealth to reduce wait times.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting until after delivery to ask for help—call during pregnancy if you’re struggling.
- Stopping meds suddenly; always speak with your prescriber about pregnancy/postpartum‑safe options.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Call 988 for urgent support. If you’re in severe distress or experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, go to an ER or call your county screening center (numbers below) for emergency evaluation.
County Crisis Lines (24/7 Psychiatric Screening Centers)
Use these hotlines for emergency mental health evaluations; they can arrange assessments and appropriate levels of care. Source: NJ DHS DMHAS “Designated Screening Services” PDF, updated June 13, 2025. (nj.gov)
North Jersey
| County | 24/7 Hotline |
|---|---|
| Bergen | 201‑262‑4357 |
| Essex (Clara Maass) | 973‑844‑4357 |
| Hudson (Primary: Jersey City Medical Center) | 866‑367‑6023 |
| Morris | 973‑625‑6160 |
| Passaic | 973‑754‑2230 |
| Sussex | 973‑383‑0973 |
| Union (Trinitas) | 908‑994‑7131 |
| Warren | 908‑454‑5141 |
Central Jersey
| County | 24/7 Hotline |
|---|---|
| Hunterdon | 908‑788‑6400 |
| Mercer | 609‑396‑4357 or 609‑989‑7297 |
| Middlesex (UBHC) | 732‑235‑5700 |
| Monmouth (Monmouth MC) | 732‑923‑6999 |
| Somerset (Bridgeway) | 908‑526‑4100 |
South Jersey
| County | 24/7 Hotline |
|---|---|
| Atlantic | 609‑344‑1118 |
| Burlington | 609‑835‑6180 |
| Camden | 856‑428‑4357 |
| Cape May | 609‑465‑5999 |
| Cumberland | 856‑455‑5555 |
| Gloucester | 856‑845‑9100 |
| Ocean | 866‑904‑4474 or 732‑886‑4474 |
| Salem | 856‑299‑3001 |
If You’re Uninsured: Hospital Charity Care (when you have a hospital bill)
New Jersey’s Charity Care (Hospital Care Payment Assistance Program) provides free or reduced‑charge care for medically necessary services at acute care hospitals if your income and assets meet criteria.
- Free care up to 200% FPL; partial discounts from 201%–300% FPL (after hospital charges are adjusted to Medicare‑based rates). Legal Services of NJ explainer (reviewed Jan 16, 2025). Program admin details: NJDOH Charity Care. (lsnjlaw.org, nj.gov)
- Apply at the hospital where you received care; program questions: 866‑588‑5696 or Charity.Care@doh.nj.gov. NJDOH Charity Care Contact. (nj.gov)
Table: 2025 FPL snapshots for Charity Care (annual income)
| Household | 200% FPL (free care) | 300% FPL (discounted care cap) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $31,300/yr | $46,950/yr |
| 2 | $42,300/yr | $63,450/yr |
| 3 | $53,300/yr | $79,950/yr |
| 4 | $64,300/yr | $96,450/yr |
(Computed from 2025 HHS poverty guidelines.) ASPE 2025 Poverty Guidelines. (aspe.hhs.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying months later; apply as soon as you receive a hospital bill.
- Submitting incomplete financial documentation.
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Ask the hospital’s financial counselor about setting up a payment plan at the reduced Charity Care rate or screening you for NJ FamilyCare retroactive coverage if eligible.
Substance Use and Co‑Occurring Needs
- ReachNJ (state addictions line), 844‑REACHNJ (732‑2465): live NJ‑based counselors, all ages, any insurance status. ReachNJ. (nj.gov)
- NJ Connect for Recovery (family peer support if a loved one is using substances): 855‑652‑3737 (live weekdays 8 a.m.–10 p.m., weekends 5–10 p.m.). NJ Connect for Recovery. (njconnectforrecovery.org)
- DMHAS treatment directory: search by county/program and find state‑funded options. DMHAS directories. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Call your county screening center (above) if withdrawal or risk escalates.
- Ask your NJ FamilyCare plan for a same‑week telehealth intake.
Diverse Communities: Tailored Doors In
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Call NAMI NJ Helpline 866‑626‑4664 for inclusive support groups and local referrals; ask about groups geared to LGBTQ+ parents. NAMI NJ. (naminj.org)
- Single moms with disabilities or moms of children with disabilities: PerformCare serves youth with behavioral health or developmental disabilities up to age 21 (access to family support and care management). Call 877‑652‑7624. NJ Dept. of Human Services—Children with Disabilities (PerformCare). (nj.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask for 988’s Veterans option or contact Rutgers’ Vets4Warriors and NJ Vet2Vet; NJ Vet2Vet hotline appears on the DMHAS hotlines page: 866‑838‑7654. DMHAS hotlines. (nj.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Children in NJ qualify for NJ FamilyCare regardless of immigration status; pregnant people who are lawfully present can qualify. Use live translation by calling 800‑701‑0710. NJ FamilyCare eligibility + language access and Q&A. (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us)
- Tribal‑specific resources: NJ does not have IHS‑operated clinics in‑state, but Native families can use the Indian Health Service “Find Health Care” tool to locate the nearest IHS/Tribal/Urban clinic and ask about behavioral health. IHS Find Health Care. (ihs.gov)
- Rural single moms and those with limited transportation: Ask for telehealth. FQHCs provide behavioral health via telehealth and in person; no one is turned away for inability to pay. NJDOH FQHC info. (nj.gov)
- Single fathers and other caregivers: The resources above are inclusive; eligibility is based on income/age/clinical need, not gender.
- Language access: NJ FamilyCare can add interpreters by phone during application and plan calls; NJ Mental Health Cares offers multi‑lingual service. NJFamCare Q&A language support; NJMHC About. (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us, njmentalhealthcares.org)
Local Organizations, Charities, and Support Groups
- NAMI New Jersey: Peer helpline 866‑626‑4664; statewide and county affiliates with support groups (including online). NAMI NJ Helpline & groups, NAMI family support groups. (naminj.org)
- Intensive Family Support Services (IFSS): Free county‑based supports for families of adults with mental illness (delivered by groups like MHANJ, Catholic Charities, MHAMC). See NAMI NJ’s IFSS county list for direct phone numbers. IFSS county contacts. (naminj.org)
- Rutgers UBHC Access Center (appointments): 800‑969‑5300. UBHC. (ubhc.rutgers.edu)
- FQHCs (sliding‑fee clinics): Use NJDOH search to find a center near you. Find an FQHC. (nj.gov)
- Postpartum Support International (PSI): non‑crisis helpline 800‑944‑4773, and NJ chapter listings. PSI contact; PSI locations. (postpartum.net)
- Maternal & Family Center (Bergen, CarePlus NJ): outpatient maternal mental health; Medicaid accepted; phone 201‑975‑5466. CarePlus NJ Maternal & Family Center. (careplusnj.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work
- Call NJ Mental Health Cares 866‑202‑4357 and ask for three alternate clinics by ZIP code and wait times, or ask for a warm transfer. (njmentalhealthcares.org)
Application Checklist (print/save)
- Photo ID and proof of NJ address.
- Proof of income (last 30 days of pay stubs, self‑employment ledger, benefits letters).
- Social Security numbers if available; immigration documents if applicable (not required for kids).
- Pregnancy verification if applying as pregnant.
- Any current insurance cards.
- For child services (PerformCare): child’s info, insurance details, current concerns, and school contact if relevant.
- For Charity Care (hospital bills): full income proof, assets info, and the hospital bill. NJFamCare Apply page (checklist noted); NJDOH Charity Care. (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us, nj.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting for “the perfect” therapist while symptoms worsen—get on multiple waitlists and ask for telehealth or a bridge visit.
- Not calling PerformCare during a child’s escalation—MRSS can come within an hour and keep kids at home when safe. (performcarenj.org)
- Missing NJ FamilyCare mail or portal messages—set alerts; eligibility and plan assignments arrive by mail.
- Assuming your child isn’t eligible due to immigration: NJ covers kids regardless of status. Cover All Kids. (nj.gov)
- Not asking about sliding‑fee or Charity Care if you’re uninsured after an ER visit. NJDOH Charity Care. (nj.gov)
Quick Reference Tables
Table 1. County crisis screening lines — see “County Crisis Lines” above (three region tables).
Table 2. NJ FamilyCare 2025 income (monthly) — see table in NJ FamilyCare section (adults 138%, pregnant 205%, children 147%/355%). (nj.gov, nj.gov, lsnjlaw.org)
Table 3. Charity Care 2025 (annual) — see table in Charity Care section. (aspe.hhs.gov)
Table 4. Maternal mental health quick links
| Resource | How it helps | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| NJ Family Health Line | Perinatal mood disorders info/referrals | 800‑328‑3838 (M‑F) (nj.gov) |
| Maternal Mental Health Hotline (national) | 24/7 support; English/Spanish with interpreters | 833‑852‑6262 (call/text) (mchb.hrsa.gov) |
| Connecting NJ | County maternal health hubs (screenings, doulas, groups) | County numbers listed; online form (nj.gov) |
FAQs (New Jersey‑specific)
- How fast will MRSS come if I call about my child?
- When authorized, Mobile Response aims to arrive within 1 hour and can provide up to 8 weeks of in‑home stabilization. (performcarenj.org)
- Can I get Medicaid postpartum for a full year?
- Yes. NJ has 12‑month postpartum coverage; it’s now codified and reflected in NJ FamilyCare policy. (pub.njleg.state.nj.us)
- I’m a single mom working part time. What income qualifies me for NJ FamilyCare as an adult?
- Adults 19–64 qualify up to 138% FPL (e.g., approx. 1,800/month∗∗foroneperson;∗∗1,800/month** for one person; **3,698/month for a family of four under 2025 guidelines). (nj.gov)
- Are there premiums for my child’s coverage?
- No. NJ’s “Cover All Kids” eliminated CHIP premiums; kids are covered up to 355% FPL if income‑eligible, regardless of immigration status. (nj.gov)
- I don’t have insurance and got a hospital bill after a mental health crisis. Help?
- Ask the hospital for Charity Care. Free up to 200% FPL, partial discounts to 300% FPL. Apply at the hospital billing office. (lsnjlaw.org)
- I can’t get to therapy. Is telehealth covered?
- NJ policy supports behavioral health telehealth parity; check your plan for current specifics and ask your clinic for phone/video options. (nj.gov)
- Where can I find a therapist who accepts NJ FamilyCare?
- Call your MCO member line (on your ID card) or search the plan directory. BH Integration in 2025 moved more behavioral health under MCOs for “one‑stop” coordination. (nj.gov)
- My teen is spiraling after school hours. Who do I call?
- PerformCare 877‑652‑7624 for urgent youth support; or your county screening center (24/7 numbers in the tables). (performcarenj.org)
- Are there support groups for families?
- Yes—NAMI NJ offers free family support groups online and in person statewide. (naminj.org)
- I’m not sure which office handles what. Is there a single place to ask?
- Call NJ Mental Health Cares 866‑202‑4357 for mental health/referrals; NJ 2‑1‑1 (211) can also connect you to local services 24/7. NJ 211. (nj211.org)
What to Do If You’re Still Stuck (Plan B playbook)
- Call 988 and ask for a list of nearby walk‑in crisis options.
- Use the DMHAS directory by county to locate state‑funded programs that must reserve capacity for uninsured/underinsured residents. DMHAS directories. (nj.gov)
- Try an FQHC for same‑week behavioral health intake (sliding‑fee). FQHC locator. (nj.gov)
- If private insurance is denying parity (e.g., mental health limits stricter than medical), contact NJ Department of Banking and Insurance Consumer Hotline 800‑446‑7467 or file an online complaint. NJDOBI consumer assistance. (nj.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from New Jersey Department of Human Services, NJ Department of Health, DCF, USDA/HHS poverty guidelines, and established nonprofits (NAMI NJ, MHANJ, PSI). It is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
- Program details, phone numbers, eligibility limits, and clinic participation can change. Always verify with the relevant agency or plan before you apply, enroll, or attend an appointment.
- This guide is informational, not legal or medical advice.
- For site security and your privacy: do not share Social Security numbers, full medical records, or account passwords over email or unsecured forms linked from any guide. Use only official state portals and verified clinic numbers for applications and health information.
- If you are in crisis, call 988 or 911 immediately.
Sources cited (selection)
- NJ DHS DMHAS 988 page (state 988 details). (nj.gov)
- NJ Mental Health Cares (helpline info and hours). (njmentalhealthcares.org)
- DMHAS “Designated Screening Services” PDF (county crisis lines; updated June 13, 2025). (nj.gov)
- PerformCare (eligibility; MRSS within 1 hour; up to 8 weeks). (performcarenj.org)
- NJ DHS Adults (NJ FamilyCare 2025 monthly examples). (nj.gov)
- ASPE/HHS 2025 Poverty Guidelines (FPL). (aspe.hhs.gov)
- LSNJ 2025 income chart (adults, children, pregnant thresholds). (lsnjlaw.org)
- NJ FamilyCare Who Is Eligible + Cover All Kids FAQs (355% FPL; no CHIP premiums; kids regardless of status). (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us, nj.gov)
- NJDOH PMAD page (Family Health Line 800‑328‑3838). (nj.gov)
- Maternal Mental Health Hotline (HRSA). (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- DFD County Boards of Social Services (office contacts and 2025 Ocean County move notice). (nj.gov)
- NJDOH FQHC information and locator. (nj.gov)
- Charity Care program (NJDOH) + LSNJ Charity Care income policy. (nj.gov, lsnjlaw.org)
- DMHAS directories/hotlines page (treatment directories, Vet2Vet). (nj.gov)
- Telehealth parity (Governor’s 12/22/2021 release). (nj.gov)
- BH Integration (2025). (nj.gov)
- Domestic Violence Hotline (DCF) and NJCASA sexual assault hotline. (nj.gov, njcasa.org)
- NAMI NJ Helpline; support groups. (naminj.org)
- Connecting NJ county numbers (perinatal hubs). (nj.gov)
- NJ FamilyCare Admin Code timelines for applications (30/90 days). (casetext.com)
This article also reviews top search results for “New Jersey Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers” to fill gaps: most results list general hotlines or clinic names but don’t include 2025 income numbers, postpartum coverage specifics, MRSS 1‑hour response, county crisis lines in one place, application timelines, or Charity Care thresholds. We added verified dollar amounts, phone numbers, county lines, and step‑by‑steps with Plan B options and checklists to address those gaps.
🏛️More New Jersey Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Jersey
- 📋 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
