Comprehensive Guide to Mental Health Resources in Austin, TX

Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet access to mental health care remains a challenge for many people. According to a landmark study published in The Lancet, mental and neurological disorders account for 13% of the global burden of disease, measured in years of healthy life lost due to disability and premature mortality. 

In the United States, and in Texas specifically, barriers such as cost, insurance gaps, limited availability of providers, and stigma often prevent people from getting the help they need. In Austin, however, a number of local organizations are working to make mental health support more affordable, accessible, and inclusive. 

This article offers a curated list of mental health resources available in Austin, TX, with a focus on services that are either free, low-cost, or available on a sliding scale. All organizations featured here are based in or serve the Austin community directly.

Affordable Therapy Clinics in Austin

Fortunately, several local organizations provide therapy and support services at reduced cost or no cost at all. These clinics aim to make mental health care more accessible through sliding scale fees, community-based funding, and free programs. The following resources offer individual and group counseling for a range of mental health needs, including anxiety, depression, recovery, and life transitions.

1. Friends of Austin State Hospital (Friends of A.S.H.)

Friends of Austin State Hospital (Friends of A.S.H.) is a nonprofit organization committed to improving the lives of patients receiving mental health care at Austin State Hospital (ASH). For over 70 years, Friends of A.S.H. has played a vital role in supporting recovery by funding creative, recreational, and therapeutic programs that promote healing, dignity, and community connection.

In a recent collaboration with Samaritan Center, Friends of A.S.H. expanded its outreach by co-hosting events focused on holistic recovery and integrated care. The partnership highlights their shared commitment to mental health access, spiritual care, and trauma-informed support across Central Texas. Together, we aim to reduce stigma and build stronger networks of community healing. 

2. Mindful Wellness Center of Austin

Mindful Wellness Center of Austin offers individual and couples counseling focused on mindfulness-based approaches. Services are provided by graduate student interns and post-graduate associate therapists, making it possible to keep fees lower. Therapy sessions are available virtually, and costs range from $30 to $75 per session depending on the therapist’s level of training.

3. Integral Care

Integral Care is the Local Mental Health and Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authority for Travis County. It provides a wide range of mental health services including counseling, psychiatry, crisis intervention, substance use treatment, and case management.

Integral Care offers services to adults, children, and families, with a focus on individuals experiencing serious mental illness or emotional distress.

Fees are based on income and family size using a sliding scale, and Medicaid, Medicare, and most private insurance plans are accepted. 

4. Communities for Recovery

Communities for Recovery provides peer-led support services focused on individuals recovering from mental health challenges and substance use disorders. Programs include one-on-one peer coaching, recovery-oriented groups, wellness classes, and workforce re-entry support.

All services are free of charge, and no insurance is required. The organization centers its approach on lived experience, aiming to reduce stigma and build personal empowerment. 

Substance Use and Recovery Services

In Austin, several organizations are dedicated to helping individuals navigate substance use challenges by offering education, treatment options, peer support, and referrals to trusted recovery programs. These services are designed to meet people where they are, whether they’re just beginning to seek help or are continuing a long-term recovery journey. 

5. Sober Austin

Sober Austin is an online resource hub that connects individuals in Austin and Central Texas to a wide range of substance use and addiction recovery services. While it is not a direct treatment provider, it serves as a directory for local recovery meetings, sober living facilities, outpatient programs, detox centers, and harm reduction services.

The platform is especially helpful for individuals and families trying to navigate available options without formal referrals. It also offers information tailored to different needs, including support for adolescents, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and those in early recovery.

6. SIMS Foundation

The SIMS Foundation offers direct mental health and substance use recovery services for musicians, music industry professionals, and their families in the Austin area. Programs include clinical assessments, individual and group counseling, case management, and referrals to specialized treatment providers.

Services are trauma-informed and tailored to the unique needs of those working in the music industry. SIMS partners with a network of licensed clinicians and recovery specialists, and assistance is provided at low or no cost, depending on the client’s financial situation. 

Domestic Violence & Crisis Counseling

For individuals experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, or other forms of interpersonal violence, immediate and long-term support is critical. In Austin, several organizations provide free crisis counseling, shelter, legal advocacy, and recovery services for people affected by abuse. These programs are confidential, inclusive, and available regardless of income or immigration status. Whether someone needs emergency housing, trauma counseling, or safety planning, the following resources offer accessible help within the Austin community.

7. SAFE Alliance (Austin)

SAFE (Stop Abuse For Everyone) Alliance is a nonprofit organization that formed through the merger of Austin Children’s Shelter and SafePlace. Its mission is to stop abuse for everyone by serving survivors of child abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, and sex trafficking. SAFE believes that safety is a basic human right and that abuse is preventable through education, community engagement, and systemic change.

In addition to shelter and counseling, the organization also offers housing assistance, parenting support, and services for survivors with disabilities or language barriers. SAFE is committed to equity, trauma-informed care, and survivor-centered practices across all programs.

8. Hope Alliance

Hope Alliance is the recognized domestic violence and sexual assault response center for Williamson County, located just north of Austin in Round Rock. Their mission is to assist those affected by family and sexual violence by providing safety, services, and support, while working toward prevention through education and community partnerships.



Hope Alliance operates from a belief in survivor empowerment, recognizing each person’s right to make decisions about their safety and healing. In addition to core services like counseling and emergency housing, they provide court accompaniment, community education programs, and children's advocacy services. 

LGBTQIA+ Mental Health Support

LGBTQIA+ individuals often face unique mental health challenges, including discrimination, identity-based stress, family rejection, and barriers to culturally competent care. In response, several organizations in Austin are dedicated to providing affirming, identity-safe mental health services tailored to the needs of queer and trans individuals.

9. Out Youth

Out Youth is a nonprofit based in Austin that supports LGBTQIA+ youth through affirming mental health care, peer support, and family resources. Founded in 1990, its mission is to promote the well-being of LGBTQ+ youth so they can openly and safely explore and affirm their identities.

The organization offers free and low-cost individual therapy, support groups, and services for caregivers of queer and trans youth. Out Youth’s approach is grounded in youth empowerment, mental health equity, and community connection. Their counseling staff includes licensed clinicians who are trained in trauma-informed and culturally competent care for LGBTQ+ populations.

10. PFLAG Austin

PFLAG Austin is the local chapter of the national PFLAG network, which supports LGBTQIA+ people, their families, and allies. The organization focuses on creating safe, inclusive environments where individuals and families can access peer-led support.

PFLAG meetings are not therapy, but they offer opportunities for connection, education, and advocacy. Founded on the values of unconditional love and mutual respect, PFLAG’s mission is to promote acceptance and understanding through community dialogue and support.

11. The Trevor Project (Online National)

The Trevor Project is a national organization offering 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQIA+ youth under 25. Although it operates nationwide, its services are accessible in Austin through online and phone-based platforms.

Trevor’s mission is to end suicide among LGBTQ youth by providing accessible, confidential, and affirming crisis support. Services include a phone lifeline, text and chat options, and an online peer community called TrevorSpace.

Pregnancy, Postpartum & Family Mental Health

Many individuals experience emotional changes before, during, and after childbirth, while others may face stress tied to caregiving, parenting challenges, or major life adjustments. These programs address perinatal mood disorders, parenting stress, family dynamics, and trauma, offering services such as counseling, hotlines, education, and peer support. The following resources are designed to help families and caregivers navigate complex emotional experiences in a safe and supportive environment.

12. Nurtured TX (Formerly PPHATX)

Nurtured TX, formerly known as the Pregnancy and Postpartum Health Alliance of Texas (PPHATX), is a nonprofit organization that supports the mental health of individuals during and after pregnancy. Their mission is to ensure that every parent in Central Texas has access to specialized perinatal mental health care regardless of income or background.



Nurtured TX provides free support groups, individual therapy referrals, and care coordination for those experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. They work with licensed clinicians who are trained in perinatal mental health, and they aim to reduce barriers by connecting clients to providers who offer low-cost or grant-funded care.

13. Texas Youth Helpline

The Texas Youth Helpline is a confidential, 24/7 service operated by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. It offers crisis intervention, emotional support, and connection to local services for youth (under age 21) and their parents or guardians.

The helpline supports young people dealing with family conflict, abuse, neglect, bullying, or mental health concerns. Callers can receive free guidance by phone, text, or online chat. The service is grounded in the belief that early support and listening can prevent escalation and help youth feel safe and connected to trusted adults.

14. TexVet

TexVet is a statewide resource hub for veterans, service members, and their families, offering mental health support, peer networks, and local service directories. Though based in Texas, it connects users, including those in Austin, to trusted providers and veteran-focused organizations.

TexVet’s mission is to provide accurate, current information and to reduce the complexity often involved in navigating veteran services. The site includes mental health resources, PTSD treatment programs, caregiver support, and links to community-based counseling. TexVet also emphasizes suicide prevention and transition support for veterans returning to civilian life.

15. Integral Care Veterans Services

Integral Care provides mental health services for veterans and their families living in Travis County. In addition to its general mental health programs, Integral Care offers case management, therapy, and substance use support tailored to the experiences of veterans.

The organization collaborates with the Veterans Administration and other agencies to ensure continuity of care, especially for veterans with complex mental health needs or post-traumatic stress. Integral Care’s veteran services are grounded in trauma-informed care and are part of a broader mission to improve mental health equity for underserved populations in Austin.

Resources to Remember and Share

Taking the first step toward mental health support can feel overwhelming, but reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you're navigating personal challenges, supporting a loved one, or simply looking for resources, the services listed in this guide are here to help. Many are free or low-cost, and they are designed to meet you with compassion, confidentiality, and respect.

We encourage you to bookmark or share this article so it can serve as a helpful reference for yourself or someone you know. While we’ve worked to keep the information accurate and up to date, availability, pricing, and program offerings may change. Please visit each organization’s website or contact them directly to confirm the latest details.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, here are the primary emergency and crisis hotlines available in Austin:

• Integral Care Crisis Line (24/7): 512-472-HELP (4357)
• SAFE Alliance (Domestic & Sexual Violence): 512-267-SAFE (7233)
• Hope Alliance (Family & Sexual Violence): 1-800-460-7233
• Texas Youth Helpline: 1-800-989-6884
• Trevor Project (LGBTQIA+ youth): 1-866-488-7386 or text “START” to 678678
• National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988
• Call 2-1-1 Texas: For referrals to local mental health and social services