Mental Health Resources in Minnesota

Last updated September 7, 2026

Minnesota offers a range of mental health supports for residents of all ages and income levels, from immediate crisis intervention to long-term treatment funded through public programs. Whether you are navigating a psychiatric emergency, looking for affordable therapy, or helping a loved one access care, knowing which programs exist and how to reach them can make a real difference.

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) oversees most publicly funded mental health services in the state, including programs for children, adults, and older Minnesotans. Many services are covered through Minnesota's Medicaid program, known as Medical Assistance (MA), as well as MinnesotaCare for those who qualify based on income but do not meet full MA eligibility. If you are unsure where to start, calling 2-1-1 Minnesota is one of the fastest ways to get matched with local mental health providers, sliding-scale clinics, and peer support programs in your county.

Crisis support is available around the clock. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is free, confidential, and connects callers to trained counselors who understand Minnesota's local resources. Residents can also text 988. For people experiencing a psychiatric emergency, county-based crisis services — which vary by location — can be found through your county's human services office or by dialing 2-1-1.

Key programs in Minnesota

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Free, confidential 24/7 crisis support for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, or a mental health emergency. Call or text 988. Spanish-language support and services for LGBTQ+ youth are available.

How to access: Call or text 988 from anywhere in Minnesota at any time. No insurance or ID required. Chat is also available at 988lifeline.org.

Medical Assistance (Minnesota Medicaid) & MinnesotaCare

State health coverage programs that pay for mental health services including therapy, psychiatry, inpatient psychiatric care, and crisis stabilization for eligible low-income Minnesotans.

How to access: Apply online at MNsure (mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/adults/health-care/) or call the MNsure contact center at 1-855-366-7873. County human services offices can also help with applications in person.

2-1-1 Minnesota

A free statewide helpline and online database that connects residents to local mental health providers, sliding-scale therapy, peer support groups, crisis services, and other social supports across all 87 Minnesota counties.

How to access: Call 2-1-1 (available 24/7), text your zip code to 898-211, or search online at mn.211.org. Interpreters are available for non-English speakers.

Minnesota Department of Human Services – Mental Health Division

The state agency that funds and oversees community mental health services, children's mental health programs, adult mental health initiatives, and the certified community behavioral health clinic (CCBHC) network in Minnesota.

How to access: Visit mn.gov/dhs/mental-health for program information, provider directories, and county contact listings. Your county's local adult or children's mental health authority is your direct point of entry for publicly funded services.

VA Mental Health Services (for Veterans)

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provides free mental health care to eligible veterans, including therapy for PTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use, and MST. Minnesota is served by the Minneapolis VA Health Care System and several community-based outpatient clinics.

How to access: Call the Minneapolis VA at 1-612-725-2000 or visit va.gov/minneapolis-health-care to find the nearest clinic. Veterans in crisis can also call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line.

Mental Health Resources resources for Minnesota

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Nationwide

24/7 free and confidential support for people in distress. Call or text 988.

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NAMI HelpLine

Nationwide

Information, resource referrals, and support for people living with mental health conditions.

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SAMHSA National Helpline

Nationwide

Free, confidential 24/7 treatment referral and information for mental and/or substance use disorders.

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