VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — A new state-wide program aims to bring mental health resources to the uninsured and the underinsured.
It's called the Virginia Telemental Health Initiative, and organizers said it is the first of its kind.
“It’s the first model we know of in the U.S. with a dual mission of providing free mental health services to medically underserved populations virtually while also supporting the next generation of mental health providers with the licensure process so they can enter the workforce faster," said Mara Servaites, the executive director.
Following a successful pilot program, the initiative received more funding from state lawmakers to expand its services across the Commonwealth.
A person who qualifies for free and/or charitable clinics can be referred to the program, to help break down barriers that can prevent people from seeking the mental health resources that they need.
"Stigma is extremely prevalent in our society in accessing mental health services or feeling like you might have a mental health concern or issue, and we certainly come across that quite a bit," said Servaites.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 8.7% of people who report incomes below the federal poverty limit have severe psychological distress. However, few have the means to access help.
Servaites said half the trouble is finding a good counselor, as the demand for them has increased ever since the COVID-19 pandemic, yet fewer are going into the profession.
"This way we can help aspiring counselors get the experience they need to help people and help the uninsured or underinsured here in Virginia," said Servaites.
Interested patients can contact free and charitable clinics directly to determine their eligibility and make appointments. For more information, visit the Virginia Telemental Health Initiative.