Mental Health Resources for Iowans
Below is a curated list of 12 top mental health resource websites tailored for residents of Iowa. These organizations provide support, education, crisis intervention, and treatment options to help individuals and families navigate mental health challenges. Each entry includes the organization name, a brief two-sentence description, and a direct link.
NAMI Iowa
NAMI Iowa, the state chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, offers free support groups, educational classes, and advocacy to empower those affected by mental illness and their loved ones. Their resources reduce stigma and promote recovery through statewide events and online tools.
Your Life Iowa Your Life Iowa is a 24/7 confidential helpline connecting Iowans to free support for mental health crises, substance use, and suicidal thoughts via call, text, or chat. It also provides self-screening tools, educational materials, and referrals to local treatment options.
Iowa Department of Health and Human Services – Behavioral Health
The Iowa HHS Behavioral Health division coordinates statewide mental health services, including prevention programs and access to accredited providers. It offers guidance on treatment, crisis response, and policy updates to support Iowans in achieving wellness.
Visit Iowa HHS Behavioral Health
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline The 988 Lifeline delivers immediate, free, and confidential emotional support for those in crisis, with specialized responders linking callers to Iowa-specific resources. It’s available 24/7 by call, text, or chat, serving as a critical lifeline for mental health emergencies.
Iowa Office of Recovery Services Iowa’s Office of Recovery Services promotes long-term recovery from mental health and substance use disorders through peer support networks and community resources. They provide toolkits, training, and advocacy to build resilient systems for Iowans in need.
Visit Iowa Office of Recovery Services
NAMI Central Iowa NAMI Central Iowa supports families and individuals in multiple counties with no-cost education, support groups, and stigma-busting initiatives focused on mental health recovery. Their programs include family-to-family training and youth advocacy efforts tailored to central Iowa communities.
Prairie Ridge Services Prairie Ridge delivers integrated behavioral health care, including counseling, addiction treatment, and prevention for central Iowans of all ages. Their evidence-based approach emphasizes holistic wellness and family involvement for sustainable outcomes.
Vera French Community Mental Health Center
Serving eastern Iowa, Vera French provides comprehensive mental health services from outpatient therapy to residential programs for children, adults, and families. They prioritize accessible, trauma-informed care to foster emotional resilience and independence.
Abbe Center for Community Mental Health
The Abbe Center offers community-focused mental health and substance use services across eastern Iowa, including crisis stabilization and wellness coaching. Their integrated model supports recovery through personalized treatment and community partnerships.
Community and Family Resources (CFR)
CFR provides statewide prevention and treatment for mental illness, addiction, and gambling issues, with a focus on advocacy and family strengthening. Their programs include counseling, education, and peer support to promote healthy lifestyles in Iowa communities.
Youth & Shelter Services (YSS)
YSS specializes in youth mental health, offering counseling, crisis intervention, and family education services throughout Iowa to build stability and resilience. They address trauma, anxiety, and behavioral challenges with trauma-sensitive approaches for young people and their support networks.
Iowa Behavioral Health Association (IBHA)
IBHA advocates for nonprofit behavioral health providers in Iowa, connecting residents to quality care through directories, training, and policy reform. They enhance access to mental health services by fostering collaboration among organizations statewide.