Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers in New York
Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers in New York (2025)
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, step‑by‑step hub for getting mental health care in New York when time, money, and childcare are tight. Everything here links directly to official sources and is current as of August–September 2025.
— Quick help is first. Deep dives, prices, and timelines follow.
— All phone numbers and dollar amounts are bolded for fast scanning.
— Every section ends with “What to do if this doesn’t work.”
Quick Help Box (save or screenshot)
- Call or text 988 for 24/7 crisis counseling, safety planning, and local referrals anywhere in NY. Chat at 988 Lifeline – chat now. (988lifeline.org, health.ny.gov)
- In NYC, use NYC 988 for crisis support, mobile crisis, and referrals (200+ languages). Call/text 988 or visit NYC 988 – find services. (nyc988.cityofnewyork.us)
- Pregnant or postpartum and overwhelmed? Call or text the free Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262), 24/7 (English/Spanish + 60 languages). Hotline FAQ (HRSA). (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- Need a trained team to come to you in NYC? Ask for a Mobile Crisis Team via 988 or submit the NYC 988 Mobile Crisis referral. Online referrals are reviewed quickly during Mon–Fri, 9:00–4:30 with follow‑up usually within ~1 hour; after hours, call 988. (nyc988.cityofnewyork.us)
- Domestic or sexual violence: NYS hotline 1‑800‑942‑6906 (call), text 844‑997‑2121, or live chat via OPDV Get Help. (opdv.ny.gov)
- NAMI New York State Helpline (info, support, and referrals): 518‑245‑9160 (Mon–Fri, hours vary). NAMI‑NYS contact. (naminys.org)
- Postpartum Resource Center of NY Helpline: 855‑631‑0001 or 631‑422‑2255 (daily 9–5; voicemail 24/7). PRCNY info. (211lifeline.org)
How this guide is different (why it beats typical search results)
- It gives exact 2025 income limits, $0 premiums, and copay rules where available — no vague “low‑cost.” (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)
- It tells you exactly who to call for rides, mobile crisis, and treatment…with numbers and expected timelines. (health.ny.gov, nyc988.cityofnewyork.us)
- It shows plan B options if the first door doesn’t open (because waiting lists are real).
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- 24/7 crisis anywhere in NY: 988. NYC local portal: NYC 988. (nyc.gov, nyc988.cityofnewyork.us)
- Postpartum or pregnant help: 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA text/call; interpreters in 60+ languages. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- Find a state‑licensed clinic by county: NY OMH Program Directory. (my.omh.ny.gov)
- Find low‑ or no‑cost community clinics (FQHCs) near you: Find a Community Health Center (CHCANYS). (chcanys.org)
- Medicaid rides to appointments (no cost): Downstate 844‑666‑6270 | Upstate 866‑932‑7740 (Medical Answering Services). Book ≥72 hours ahead. Details: Medicaid Transportation. (health.ny.gov)
- Insurance enrollment help: NY State of Health marketplace 1‑855‑355‑5777; Essential Plan now up to 250% FPL with $0 premium. Press release and 1332 waiver info here: DOH 4/1/2024 EP expansion and NYSoH 1332 waiver page. (health.ny.gov, info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)
Table 1 — Who to call right now
| Situation | What to do | Number / Link |
|---|---|---|
| Emotional crisis, suicidal thoughts, panic, or you’re worried about someone | 24/7 counselor; safety planning; local referrals across NY | 988; Chat: 988 Lifeline |
| NYC‑specific crisis support, mobile crisis, respite | Call or text 988; browse local services | 988; NYC 988 – Find Services |
| Pregnant/postpartum stress, anxiety, depression | 24/7 hotline (English/Spanish + interpreters for 60+ languages) | 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262); HRSA Hotline FAQ |
| Domestic/sexual violence (statewide) | Confidential 24/7 help; text/chat available | 1‑800‑942‑6906, text 844‑997‑2121, OPDV chat |
| Veterans and family | 24/7 Veterans Crisis Line | 988 then press 1; text 838255; About 988 for Veterans |
| NAMI New York State Warmline (info/support) | Help navigating services, support groups | 518‑245‑9160; NAMI‑NYS |
| Postpartum Resource Center of NY | Helpline, referrals, support groups | 855‑631‑0001 / 631‑422‑2255; PRCNY |
Sources: NYS OMH, NYC DOHMH, HRSA, OPDV, VA, NAMI‑NYS, PRCNY. (omh.ny.gov, nyc988.cityofnewyork.us, mchb.hrsa.gov, opdv.ny.gov, veteranscrisisline.net, naminys.org, 211lifeline.org)
A fast plan for getting care this week
- If you feel unsafe: call 988. Ask the counselor for the nearest walk‑in clinic or a mobile crisis team if you’re in NYC. (nyc.gov, nyc988.cityofnewyork.us)
- If you can wait a day or two: pick a clinic near your home in the OMH Program Directory (filter by county and “Clinic”). Call and ask for the earliest intake and if they have telehealth. (my.omh.ny.gov)
- If cost is the blocker: check your eligibility for Medicaid, the Essential Plan (now up to 250% FPL with $0 premium), or Child Health Plus for your kids. You can apply free with an assister: 1‑855‑355‑5777. (health.ny.gov, healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
- Need transportation to care and you have Medicaid? Call MAS (Downstate 844‑666‑6270 | Upstate 866‑932‑7740) at least 72 hours before the appointment. (health.ny.gov)
What mental health care costs in NY (2025): your coverage options
New York has several public coverage paths that dramatically lower — or eliminate — costs for therapy, psychiatry, meds, and crisis services.
Medicaid and pregnancy/postpartum coverage (12 months)
- Pregnant New Yorkers qualify for Medicaid up to 223% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Coverage lasts through pregnancy and 12 months postpartum regardless of immigration status or pregnancy outcome (effective 6/14/2023). (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)
- 2025 monthly income limits for pregnant adults (223% FPL) include: 1‑person 2,909∗∗;2‑person∗∗2,909**; 2‑person **3,931; 3‑person 4,953∗∗;4‑person∗∗4,953**; 4‑person **5,975. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
- Depression screening is covered multiple times postpartum under Medicaid; NY allows reimbursement up to four times in the first year after pregnancy. (health.ny.gov)
- If you’re uninsured and pregnant, many prenatal clinics can give you Presumptive Eligibility (temporary Medicaid right away) at your first visit. Ask your prenatal clinic. (health.ny.gov)
- Medicaid rides to appointments are free (see MAS numbers in the cheat sheet). (health.ny.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for the Essential Plan (below); ask the clinic about sliding‑scale fees; use a Federally Qualified Health Center via CHCANYS while your coverage is pending. (chcanys.org)
Essential Plan (EP) — adults 19–64 up to 250% FPL
- As of April 1, 2024, NY expanded EP to 250% FPL with $0 monthly premium; it includes behavioral health, dental, and vision. Continuous open enrollment. (health.ny.gov)
- 2025 income examples (250% FPL): 1‑person up to 39,125∗∗;2‑person∗∗39,125**; 2‑person **52,875; 3‑person 66,625∗∗;4‑person∗∗66,625**; 4‑person **80,375. Apply via NY State of Health or call 1‑855‑355‑5777. (access.nyc.gov, info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)
- Starting 2025, NY also added extra cost‑sharing help (savings) for certain groups (including pregnant/postpartum) enrolled in Qualified Health Plans, and expanded EP affordability overall via its approved 1332 waiver. (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call NY State of Health (1‑855‑355‑5777) to review eligibility and get free in‑person help. Clinics can still treat you on a sliding scale while coverage is sorted.
Child Health Plus (CHPlus) — birth to 19
- Children qualify for free or low‑cost coverage up to >400% FPL; there are no copays. 2025 monthly income examples for “free” tier: 1‑person 2,896∗∗;2‑person∗∗2,896**; 2‑person **3,913; 3‑person 4,931∗∗;4‑person∗∗4,931**; 4‑person **5,948. See the full 2025 table and family premium caps. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
- Postpartum coverage for birthing parents under CHPlus is also 12 months. (health.ny.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the hospital or pediatric clinic social worker to connect you to an assister; call 1‑855‑355‑5777.
Table 2 — Insurance options at a glance (2025)
| Program | Who it’s for | 2025 income examples | Monthly premium | What it covers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medicaid (pregnant/postpartum) | Pregnant New Yorkers; 12 months postpartum coverage | 223% FPL: 1‑person 2,909∗∗;2‑person∗∗2,909**; 2‑person **3,931; 3‑person 4,953∗∗;4‑person∗∗4,953**; 4‑person **5,975 | $0 | Prenatal/postpartum care, therapy, psychiatry, meds, hospital, rides (MAS) |
| Essential Plan | Adults 19–64 not eligible for Medicaid | Up to 250% FPL: 1‑person 39,125/yr∗∗;2‑person∗∗39,125/yr**; 2‑person **52,875/yr; 3‑person 66,625/yr∗∗;4‑person∗∗66,625/yr**; 4‑person **80,375/yr | $0 | Behavioral health, medical, dental, vision; no deductible |
| Child Health Plus | Children under 19 | Free/low‑cost up to >400% FPL (see full 2025 table) | $0 to low monthly fees; no copays | Pediatric behavioral health, medical, dental, vision |
Sources: NYS DOH, NY State of Health, ACCESS NYC. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov, access.nyc.gov)
Finding the right kind of care (fast)
Start here and pick what matches your situation today.
If you need someone to come to you (NYC)
- Ask for a Mobile Crisis Team via 988 or the NYC 988 MCT referral form. Online referrals are accepted Mon–Fri 9:00–4:30 and are typically reviewed in ~20 minutes with a follow‑up call within ~1 hour; outside those hours, call 988 directly. A team can visit at home to assess, de‑escalate, and connect you to ongoing care. (nyc988.cityofnewyork.us)
Common realities: Teams prioritize safety and clinical need; response can be same day, but timing depends on volume and location. They may arrange transport to a hospital if needed.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Go to a hospital with a CPEP (Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program) or call 911 if there is immediate danger. Use the OMH Program Directory to find a CPEP near you. (my.omh.ny.gov)
If you can go to a clinic this week
- Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) offer same‑day access, crisis services 24/7, and must serve anyone regardless of ability to pay. New York is expanding to 39 clinics by mid‑2025. Ask if they have walk‑in hours or telehealth. Learn what CCBHCs offer: SAMHSA CCBHC and NY’s expansion info. (samhsa.gov, omh.ny.gov)
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) often provide therapy/psychiatry on a sliding scale and are used to helping uninsured parents. Search: Find a Community Health Center (CHCANYS). (chcanys.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for an intake with any OMH‑licensed clinic in your county using the OMH Program Directory. If you’re waiting, ask for a short‑term telehealth bridge visit or a support group via NAMI while you wait. (my.omh.ny.gov, naminys.org)
If you want pediatric or family‑focused support
- NYC families: the Children’s Single Point of Access (C‑SPOA) connects children with serious emotional needs to care management, Youth ACT, crisis in‑home programs, and more. Referrals by phone 347‑396‑7205, fax/email forms available. Details and forms: NYC C‑SPOA. (nyc.gov)
- NYC Family Resource Centers (free family/youth peer support) — contact via 988 or see DOHMH info. (home.nyc.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your child’s pediatrician to bill Medicaid for maternal depression screening (allowed in NY) and to connect you directly to a perinatal mental health clinic; use PRCNY or PSI to locate a perinatal specialist. (health.ny.gov, nyc.gov, postpartum.net)
Table 3 — Getting there and getting seen: what to expect
| Service | How to access | Typical timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile Crisis Team (NYC) | Call/text 988 or submit NYC MCT online referral | Online referrals reviewed ~20 min; follow‑up ~1 hour during business hours; after hours call 988 | In‑person assessment, de‑escalation, linkage to care. Transport if needed. (nyc988.cityofnewyork.us) |
| Medicaid rides (MAS) | Downstate 844‑666‑6270 / Upstate 866‑932‑7740 | Book ≥72 hours in advance | Free for Medicaid appointments; translation and relay services available. (health.ny.gov) |
| Psychiatric Emergency (CPEP) | Go to nearest hospital with CPEP | 24/7 | State‑licensed hospital psych emergency; evaluation, observation, referral. Use OMH directory to locate. (my.omh.ny.gov) |
| Community clinic (CCBHC/FQHC) | Search CCBHC info or CHCANYS map | Same day to a few days | Must serve regardless of ability to pay; ask for walk‑in/telehealth. (samhsa.gov, chcanys.org) |
Paying for care without breaking the budget
- HHS 2025 poverty guideline for a 1‑person household is 15,650∗∗;for4people∗∗15,650**; for 4 people **32,150. Use these to estimate 223% FPL (pregnancy Medicaid) and 250% FPL (Essential Plan) eligibility. (aspe.hhs.gov)
- Essential Plan expansion makes coverage $0/month up to 250% FPL; many behavioral health services have low or no copays. (health.ny.gov)
- Paid Family Leave (PFL) can replace income while you care for a loved one with a serious health condition (mental health can qualify if certified). In 2025, PFL pays 67% of your average weekly wage up to $1,177.32/week, with insurers required to pay/deny within 18 days after a complete request. (paidfamilyleave.ny.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the clinic billing office about charity care or sliding scale; apply for Medicaid or the Essential Plan with an assister (1‑855‑355‑5777).
Real‑world examples
- NYC example (Mobile Crisis + coverage): A Queens mom calls 988 Saturday night for intense anxiety and scary thoughts. Counselor safety‑plans and books a callback from NYC 988 Sunday morning. Monday at 9:30, her OB office helps submit an MCT online referral; NYC 988 reviews it in about 20 minutes and calls back within ~1 hour. The team visits that afternoon, sets up a next‑day tele‑therapy intake at a CCBHC, and gives her the NY State of Health assister number 1‑855‑355‑5777. She enrolls in the Essential Plan (income 39,000∗∗,within∗∗25039,000**, within **250% FPL**) with **0 premium. (nyc988.cityofnewyork.us, health.ny.gov)
- Upstate example (transport + OMH clinic): A Buffalo mom with Medicaid needs meds adjusted but has no car. She uses MAS Upstate 866‑932‑7740 to book a ride 72 hours ahead to a nearby OMH‑licensed clinic. The clinic also connects her to a local CCBHC for same‑week therapy. (health.ny.gov, my.omh.ny.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid (learned the hard way)
- Waiting to apply for coverage until after you find a therapist. Apply ASAP — Medicaid, Essential Plan, or Child Health Plus can start quickly and back up your claims. Call 1‑855‑355‑5777 for help. (health.ny.gov)
- Not asking for “mobile crisis” when calling 988 in NYC. Say, “I’m in NYC and would like a Mobile Crisis Team if appropriate.” (nyc988.cityofnewyork.us)
- Forgetting transportation. If you have Medicaid, book rides via MAS (Downstate 844‑666‑6270 | Upstate 866‑932‑7740) ≥72 hours ahead. (health.ny.gov)
- Skipping postpartum mental health screening at baby visits. NY Medicaid pays when your baby’s doctor screens you; ask for it. (health.ny.gov)
- Assuming therapy is out of reach because of immigration status. Pregnancy/postpartum Medicaid covers 12 months regardless of immigration status; NYC Care offers low‑cost care for uninsured NYC residents, phone 1‑646‑NYC‑CARE. (health.ny.gov, nyccare.nyc)
Paperwork you’ll likely need (Application Checklist)
- Photo ID (any).
- Proof of NY address (lease, letter, bill).
- Income proof (recent pay stubs, employee letter, or self‑attestation if allowed).
- Social Security number if you have one (not required for all programs).
- Pregnancy proof if you’re applying as pregnant (provider note or positive test — clinics can help).
- For kids: birth dates and any prior coverage info.
Apply with free help: NY State of Health 1‑855‑355‑5777 or find an assister via NY State of Health – Find Help. (info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)
Perinatal and maternal mental health (what New York covers and where to go)
- Depression and anxiety during and after pregnancy are common and treatable. In NY Medicaid, providers can bill up to four postpartum depression screens in the first year; infant visits can include screening the mother. (health.ny.gov)
- NY DOH requires early postpartum check‑ins, with a comprehensive visit by 12 weeks postpartum that includes mental health assessment. (health.ny.gov)
- NYC resources: Postpartum depression info (NYC DOHMH), NYC 988, C‑SPOA. (nyc.gov, nyc988.cityofnewyork.us)
- Statewide resources: OMH Maternal Depression page, PRCNY helpline, PSI local support directory. (omh.ny.gov, 211lifeline.org, postpartum.net)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA for immediate support and local referrals; use 988 for urgent safety concerns. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
Table 4 — What your first calls look like (scripts that work)
| Goal | What to say | Who you call |
|---|---|---|
| Book mobile crisis in NYC | “I’m in [borough]. I’m a single mom with [brief issue]. Can you screen me for a Mobile Crisis Team?” | 988 or MCT referral |
| Get a ride for therapy (Medicaid) | “I need to schedule non‑emergency medical transportation to my mental health appointment on [date/time].” | MAS Downstate 844‑666‑6270 / Upstate 866‑932‑7740 |
| Enroll in coverage | “I need help applying for [Medicaid/Essential Plan/Child Health Plus]. I’m a single mom in [county].” | NY State of Health 1‑855‑355‑5777 |
| Find a clinic near home | “I live in [county]. What OMH‑licensed clinics have the soonest new‑patient openings? Telehealth okay.” | Use OMH Program Directory |
Diverse Communities: focused help
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: NYC 988 provides counseling in 200+ languages; LGBTQ‑affirming services are listed in the NYC 988 directory. National 988 still serves LGBTQ+ callers, but specialized youth options have changed in 2025 — ask the counselor about current supports and referrals. Consider NAMI NYC’s LGBTQ+ groups. (nyc988.cityofnewyork.us, naminycmetro.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask about care coordination via C‑SPOA (for youth) and accessible transportation through MAS when scheduling rides. (nyc.gov, health.ny.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Use 988 then press 1 or text 838255 for the Veterans Crisis Line (24/7). You do not need to be enrolled in VA care to call. (veteranscrisisline.net)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Pregnancy Medicaid covers 12 months postpartum regardless of immigration status. In NYC, NYC Care provides low‑ or no‑cost care regardless of status; call 1‑646‑NYC‑CARE (1‑646‑692‑2273). (health.ny.gov, nyccare.nyc)
- Tribal communities: Use SAMHSA’s treatment locators and your Tribal health clinic; New York Tribal health systems (e.g., St. Regis Mohawk Health Services) can provide referrals and tele‑behavioral health. National resources: SAMHSA Region 2. (samhsa.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited access: Prioritize telehealth through OMH clinics/FQHCs and CCBHCs; use 988 for overnight support and ask for crisis respite or mobile services where available. (samhsa.gov)
- Single fathers: Most services here (988, clinics, Medicaid, EP, CHPlus) apply to dads too. Parenting stress and depression are common for all caregivers; use the same steps and hotlines.
- Language access: 988 phone support covers 200+ languages; Maternal Mental Health Hotline offers interpreters in 60+ languages. Ask clinics for interpreter services as well. (nyc.gov, mchb.hrsa.gov)
Resources by region (selected, with ways to find more)
- New York City (all boroughs): 988 / NYC 988, NYC 988 – Find Services, NYC Health + Hospitals mental health. Helplines: NAMI NYC 212‑684‑3264 (Mon–Fri). (nyc988.cityofnewyork.us, nychealthandhospitals.org, naminycmetro.org)
- Long Island: Search OMH clinics by Nassau/Suffolk; MAS Downstate rides 844‑666‑6270. (my.omh.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)
- Hudson Valley/Capital Region: Use OMH directory; many counties run 24/7 crisis lines. CCBHC/clinic examples include Westchester Jewish Community Services and Institute for Family Health (see HRSA/State releases). (governor.ny.gov)
- Central NY/Syracuse, Mohawk Valley: OMH directory; county crisis lines; CCBHCs expanding (Liberty Resources, Upstate Cerebral Palsy). (governor.ny.gov)
- Rochester/Finger Lakes: Mosaic Health, FLACRA, Institute for Family Health have behavioral health services; find via CHCANYS or OMH directory. (bphc.hrsa.gov)
- Western NY/Buffalo: BestSelf, Endeavor Health Services (CCBHC) and FQHCs; find via OMH directory and CHCANYS map. (my.omh.ny.gov, ehsny.org)
- North Country/Southern Tier: Behavioral Health Services North, county clinics, and FQHCs; use OMH directory/CHCANYS. (bphc.hrsa.gov)
Tip: For any county in NY, the OMH Program Directory lists every licensed clinic and crisis service with phone numbers. (my.omh.ny.gov)
Fast facts and current numbers (for your decisions)
- 2025 FPL (contiguous U.S.) for 1 person: 15,650∗∗;4people:∗∗15,650**; 4 people: **32,150. (aspe.hhs.gov)
- Pregnancy Medicaid income (223% FPL) monthly 2025: 1 2,909∗∗;2∗∗2,909**; 2 **3,931; 3 4,953∗∗;4∗∗4,953**; 4 **5,975. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
- Essential Plan eligibility is up to 250% FPL with 0premium∗∗(e.g.,1person∗∗0 premium** (e.g., 1 person **39,125/year). (health.ny.gov, access.nyc.gov)
- CHPlus has no copays; premiums depend on income and family size (see 2025 table). (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
- NY Paid Family Leave pays 67% of your AWW up to $1,177.32/week in 2025; decision within 18 days after a complete claim. (paidfamilyleave.ny.gov)
- Postpartum coverage is 12 months for Medicaid and CHPlus, regardless of immigration status or how the pregnancy ended. (health.ny.gov)
Table 5 — Documents to bring (or upload) for the fastest approvals
| Program | What they usually ask for | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| Medicaid (pregnant/postpartum) | ID; proof of address; income proof; pregnancy verification (clinic can help); SSN if you have one | Apply via NY State of Health or ask your prenatal clinic for Presumptive Eligibility |
| Essential Plan | ID; proof of NY residency; income proof | Apply any time; free help at 1‑855‑355‑5777 |
| Child Health Plus | Child’s info; parent/guardian ID; address; income proof | Apply via NY State of Health; no copays |
Frequently asked questions (New York‑specific)
- Can I get therapy before my insurance starts?
Yes. Many FQHCs/CCBHCs will see you on a sliding scale while your Medicaid or EP is pending. Ask for a “self‑pay intake” and a payment plan. Find centers via CHCANYS or the OMH directory. (chcanys.org, my.omh.ny.gov) - Does NYC have teams that come to your home instead of sending police?
Yes. Mobile Crisis Teams respond to mental health crises and can visit at home; start with 988 or the NYC MCT referral. Online requests are reviewed quickly during business hours. (nyc988.cityofnewyork.us) - I’m pregnant but uninsured. Can I get coverage right away?
Yes. Prenatal clinics can do Presumptive Eligibility so you get temporary Medicaid the same day, and full Medicaid can follow. (health.ny.gov) - How many times can I be screened for postpartum depression under Medicaid?
Up to four postpartum screens in the first 12 months are reimbursable in NY. Pediatric visits can include screening the mother. (health.ny.gov) - What’s the income cap for the Essential Plan in 2025?
Up to 250% FPL (e.g., 39,125/year∗∗foroneperson;∗∗39,125/year** for one person; **52,875 for two). Premium is $0. (access.nyc.gov, health.ny.gov) - Are there rides to counseling if I’m on Medicaid?
Yes. Call MAS: Downstate 844‑666‑6270 or Upstate 866‑932‑7740. Book ≥72 hours ahead. (health.ny.gov) - I’m a veteran. Who do I call?
Dial 988 then press 1, text 838255, or chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net — 24/7, confidential. You don’t need to be enrolled in VA care. (veteranscrisisline.net) - Are there free support groups?
Yes — NAMI NYS and NAMI NYC run free groups (some in Spanish). NAMI NYC Helpline: 212‑684‑3264. (naminycmetro.org) - Is postpartum coverage really 12 months even if I’m not a citizen?
Yes. NY extended Medicaid/CHPlus postpartum coverage to 12 months regardless of immigration status. (health.ny.gov) - I’m outside NYC. How do I find crisis services in my county?
Use the OMH Program Directory and filter by county and “Emergency/Crisis.” Or call 988 to be routed to your local center. (my.omh.ny.gov)
Step‑by‑step: apply for coverage in one sitting
- Gather documents (see checklist).
- Call NY State of Health at 1‑855‑355‑5777 or use an in‑person assister from Find Help.
- If you’re pregnant, tell them up front — you may qualify for Medicaid at 223% FPL with 12 months postpartum. If not pregnant and under 250% FPL, ask about the Essential Plan with $0 premium. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)
- Ask the assister to enroll your child(ren) in Child Health Plus if needed. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
- If you have a therapy date before your card arrives, ask the clinic to verify your pending coverage and continue with the appointment.
Reality checks, warnings, and tips
- Waitlists happen. Ask every clinic about cancellations, walk‑in hours, telehealth slots, and interim groups.
- If you’re in NYC and having repeated no‑shows because of childcare or transit, ask the clinic about family‑friendly scheduling and ask your Medicaid plan about transportation help.
- For safety risks (self‑harm, harm to others), don’t wait — use 988 or 911.
If you only remember three things
- 988 is 24/7 and can route you to local help anywhere in NY; in NYC, they can help coordinate mobile crisis and next‑steps. (nyc.gov, nyc988.cityofnewyork.us)
- Coverage is broader (and cheaper) than most think: pregnancy Medicaid to 223% FPL with 12 months postpartum; Essential Plan $0 premium to 250% FPL; CHPlus for kids with no copays. (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov, health.ny.gov)
- If transportation, language, or money are barriers, say that out loud to the hotline or clinic — New York has specific fixes (rides, interpreters, charity care).
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B list)
- Try a different entry door: OMH directory for your county, CHCANYS for FQHCs, or SAMHSA FindTreatment.gov for more options (filter by “low‑cost” or “Medicaid”). (my.omh.ny.gov, chcanys.org, samhsa.gov)
- Call NAMI NYS 518‑245‑9160 for a human who will help you map alternatives. (naminys.org)
- Use PFL to protect part of your paycheck while you stabilize care for yourself or your child (up to $1,177.32/week in 2025). (paidfamilyleave.ny.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from the New York State Office of Mental Health, NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, NY State of Health/Department of Health, HRSA, VA, and established nonprofits (NAMI‑NYS, PRCNY). It was produced under our Editorial Standards — primary sources, link verification, and rapid corrections. We are not a government agency and do not provide legal advice or case‑specific decisions.
Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
If you spot an error, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll investigate within 48–72 hours.
Disclaimer
Program rules, income limits, and phone trees change. Always confirm current details with the agency or plan linked here before you travel, pay, or submit documents. Mental health content is informational and not a substitute for professional diagnosis or emergency care. If you or your child are in immediate danger, call 911.
Security: We link only to official or established sites. Do not share private health information over unsecured networks. If you reach a broken or suspicious link, contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can fix it quickly.
Sources (selected)
- NYS Office of Mental Health – homepage, program directory, maternal depression: OMH main, Program Directory, Maternal Depression. (omh.ny.gov, my.omh.ny.gov)
- NYC 988 (formerly NYC Well) and Mobile Crisis: NYC DOHMH 988 page; NYC 988 portal; MCT referral process. (nyc.gov, nyc988.cityofnewyork.us)
- HRSA Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA): official FAQ. (mchb.hrsa.gov)
- NY State of Health/DOH: Essential Plan expansion and 1332 waiver; 2025 cost‑sharing amendment. (health.ny.gov, info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov)
- 2025 FPL (ASPE/HHS). (aspe.hhs.gov)
- Medicaid/CHPlus pregnancy and children income levels (2025 tables). (healthweb-back.health.ny.gov)
- Medicaid postpartum coverage 12 months. (health.ny.gov)
- Medicaid Transportation (MAS) numbers and rules. (health.ny.gov)
- Paid Family Leave 2025 benefits and timelines. (paidfamilyleave.ny.gov)
- NAMI NYS and NAMI NYC helplines. (naminys.org, naminycmetro.org)
- Postpartum Resource Center of NY helpline details. (211lifeline.org)
- OPDV statewide DV hotline (call/text/chat). (opdv.ny.gov)
- SAMHSA CCBHC overview; CHCANYS FQHC locator; SAMHSA treatment locator. (samhsa.gov, chcanys.org)
- NYC child & family services (C‑SPOA, child mental health, Family Resource Centers). (nyc.gov, home.nyc.gov)
- Veterans Crisis Line (988 press 1). (veteranscrisisline.net)
If you need one‑on‑one help applying or choosing, reply and say “Call me” with your borough/county — we’ll line up the fastest official contact for your location.
🏛️More New York Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New York
- 📋 Assistance Programs
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- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
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- 🤝 Community Support
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- 🤱 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
