Frequently asked questions

~~What is the Mental Health Association in Indian River County (MHA)?~~

The MHA is a (501c3) nonprofit corporation that provides a full range of mental health services, including screening, ongoing therapy, case management, psychological testing, and psychiatric services at our Walk-In & Counseling Center in Vero Beach. We also operate a peer-run Drop-In Center in Vero, and one each in Stuart and Okeechobee.

~~Where is the Walk-In & Counseling Center and when is the Walk-In Center open?~~

The Walk-In & Counseling Center is located at 820 37th Place, Vero Beach, FL. We are open Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm

~~How can the Walk-In & Counseling Center Help?~~

If you or someone you love needs help, we provide immediate access to mental health professionals for screening, assessment and consultation regarding emotional and behavioral concerns.

~~What services can the Walk-In & Counseling Center provide to those who walk in?~~

At the Walk-In Center, we provide the following services on a walk-in basis (at no cost for Indian River County residents and for a nominal fee for those out of county):

An immediate screening with a mental health professional to determine treatment needs, and to create a care plan for any needed follow-up. Your screener can give insight and information into issues/treatment options and offer suggestions to ease symptoms and improve functioning.

Crisis Intervention services for safety planning and prevention of harm to self or others.

Consultation with loved ones or family members concerned about the mental health needs of someone else.

A Resource Consultation to gather financial information to determine payment options. A sliding fee scale (beginning at $0) is available for those who qualify. We accept many insurances.

Referral information about other programs and services.

~~What happens after my initial screening?~~

Your screener will review the care plan/recommendations determined to best meet your needs, and treatment options most accessible to you. A member of our support staff may meet with you for a Resource Consultation regarding your care options and insurance coverage you may have. We will ask for your feedback on a short, anonymous survey about your initial visit. Clinical staff will follow up with you by phone, with your permission.

~~What About Payments?~~

Payments For Services

On a walk-in basis, at no cost to Indian River County residents and for a nominal fee for those out of county, children and adults can access the following services at the Walk-In Center:

A mental health screening with a mental health professional to determine treatment needs and create a care plan for any necessary follow-up care
Crisis intervention services for safety planning and prevention of harm to self or others
Consultation with loved ones or family members concerned about the mental health needs of someone else
Referral information about other programs and services

The MHA also offers a full range of mental health services, including therapy, case management, group therapy, support groups, and psychiatric services, by appointment, on an ongoing basis. Fees are adjusted based on household income and family size for uninsured Indian River county residents. We can also qualify on site for county indigent funding for the uninsured. Our hope is to minimize the impact your fee has on your situation. We accept many insurances.

Do You Take My Insurance?

We accept Medicare and many commercial insurance plans and participate in Employee Assistance Programs (EAP).

What if I don't have Insurance?

We offer services to all Indian River County residents regardless of ability to pay. Discounts are offered based on family size and income. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, the MHA seeks to reduce and/or eliminate financial barriers to mental healthcare for our community. Hospital District Funding is available to clients with incomes below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines and we can do this on-site. The Indian River County Hospital District helps ensure that essential health care services are provided to the underserved by reimbursing not-for-profit organizations for the care they deliver to individual patients. The MHA has partnered with IRCHD to offer behavioral health services to uninsured or underinsured residents of Indian River County. Eligibility is determined based on household size and income. For individuals whose incomes are over 200%, we offer Sliding Fees based off of income and household size.

~~If I wish to return for services after a screening visit, what services are offered on an on-going basis?~~

Diagnostic Assessment with a therapist
Individual Therapy
Treatment Planning with goals and objectives of treatment established
Case Management
Psychiatrist Evaluation/Medication Management if applicable

~~Does the Walk-In & Counseling Center serve children?~~

Yes, we serve children and adults.

~~Do you need an appointment for the initial visit to the Walk-In & Counseling Center?~~

No appointment is necessary, but you may make an appointment by calling 772-569-9788, if you wish.

~~What crisis interventions are available if safety concerns arise?~~

Walk in to the Walk-In & Counseling Center during hours of operation, Monday through Friday, 8:30 am – 5 pm
Go to the emergency room or call 911 if the Walk-In Center is closed or immediate crisis assistance is needed. At Indian River Medical Center, through the emergency room, anyone can receive assessment and referral about emergency mental health concerns regarding safety. Also, community police can come to a person’s location to provide a wellness check about safety concerns.
Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273- TALK (8255), open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

~~Does the MHA facilitate any support groups?~~

Yes, we have free support groups any adult can attend including:

Mood and Anxiety Support Group – Meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month, at the MHA Walk-In & Counseling Center. This is a free bimonthly support group which focuses on dealing with depression, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety and/or panic attacks. Participants can relate to others who understand and learn skills and strategies to cope with these conditions.

Learn more about our programs Here

~~What are Drop-In Centers?~~

The MHA sponsors three peer-run Drop-In Centers which provide a safe haven for adults with severe and persistent mental illness. They are located in Indian River, Martin, and Okeechobee Counties. Drop-In Centers are peer-operated, recovery oriented environments in the community that provide a safe, friendly, supportive and confidential place where people with similar experiences are not judged.

~~How can Drop-In Centers help?~~

Many individuals recovering from a serious and persistent mental illness find themselves alone, isolated, and without friends, family, or a support system. Often individuals are unable to work or are unsure how to become involved in meaningful activities. Drop-In Centers are open 365 days of the year, and are designed to empower members to change the quality of their lives. Members are respected and offer peer support to one another. Recreational and social activities are offered to all members to promote a supportive, and empowering atmosphere as members actively participate in their recovery. The MHA believes well-managed Drop-In Centers keep members well.

~~What activities are provided at Drop-In Centers?~~