Community With Clinical: Where You Actually Belong
Awkward Recovery
Our intensive outpatient program in Austin was built around a simple idea: what if recovery happened somewhere you could actually be yourself? Where your tattoos, your weird job, your dating life, or your weekend habits are not solely "issues to work on" but just the typical character development stories you hear around the room?
We've created what Austin's been missing—treatment that feels more like hanging out with people who get it than sitting through therapy sessions. Our groups include everyone from tech bros debugging their anxiety to artists turning their chaos into something beautiful, bartenders who know too much about everyone else's problems, and basically anyone who's tired of pretending they've got their shit together.
This isn't some kumbaya circle where we hold hands and share feelings (though sometimes we do that too). This is real people dealing with real problems and figuring out how to live better without losing what makes them interesting.
Want to know more about our community approach? Check out: Building Real Recovery Communities in Austin
Flexible Scheduling That Doesn't Screw With Your Life
Austin's hustle doesn't pause for traditional therapy hours, and we're not about to ask you to tank your career for treatment. Our IOP treatment in Austin actually works with how people live:
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Evening programs for the 9-to-5ers downtown or tech corridor warriors
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Extra support available for freelancers, service industry folks, and anyone with a weird schedule needing a little extra
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Flexible arrangements because life happens—projects blow up, tours get booked, emergencies arise
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Virtual backup for individual sessions when Austin traffic is being especially awful or life gets complicated
We know that asking for help doesn't mean everything else stops. Your startup doesn't pause, your band doesn't cancel shows, your side hustle doesn't wait. Recovery happens in real life, so we built a program that works with real life.
Curious about juggling work and treatment? Read: How Long Does IOP Treatment Actually Take?
Evidence-Based Treatment Without the Bullshit
Don't get it twisted—our authentic approach doesn't mean we're messing around with your mental health. We're Joint Commission accredited because the science matters and what we do actually works.
Our Austin IOP program uses:
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) that makes sense in your actual daily chaos
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Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for when emotions feel like they're running the show
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Group process work that builds real connections instead of forced intimacy
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Individual therapy for the stuff that's too personal or weird for group
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Mindfulness and wellness adapted for skeptics, believers, and everyone in between
The treatment is intensive enough to create real change while being flexible enough to work with Austin's "work hard, play hard, figure it out as you go" culture. Evidence-based but not academic. Professional but not pretentious.
Want the details on our approach? Learn about: IOP vs Residential Treatment: What's Actually Right for You?
IOP Treatment Explained: Cut the Bullshit, Here's What It Actually Is
Let's skip the treatment industry jargon and talk about what an intensive outpatient program really is, who it helps, and why it might be exactly what you need right now.
What is an Intensive Outpatient Program?
An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is basically the sweet spot between "I'll figure this out on my own" and "lock me up until I'm fixed." It's structured enough to actually create change, flexible enough that you don't have to blow up your entire life to get help.
Here's the real breakdown:
• Frequency: 3-4 days per week (not every damn day) • Duration: 3-4 hours per session (enough time to actually get somewhere) • Length: Usually 12-16 weeks (but we're not obsessed with arbitrary timelines) • Structure: Mix of group work, individual sessions, and actual useful skills • Life integration: You go home, keep your job, maintain your relationships
Unlike residential treatment where they basically remove you from your life for a month, IOP treatment in Austin lets you practice new skills while dealing with real shit—Austin traffic, your actual boss, your dating drama, whatever's actually stressing you out.
Need more details? Check out: What to Expect in Your First Week of IOP
Who Actually Benefits from IOP Treatment in Austin?
Awkward Recovery
Our Austin IOP program works especially well for people who are:
Functioning but struggling—you're holding it together on the outside but everything feels harder than it should. Maybe you're showing up to work but using substances to cope, or managing relationships but your anxiety is through the roof.
Too busy for residential but need more than weekly therapy—you've got a life you can't just pause, but weekly sessions aren't cutting it. This includes Austin's tech workers, restaurant industry folks, healthcare people, and anyone whose job doesn't stop for traditional treatment schedules.
Coming down from higher levels of care—if you've done residential or intensive inpatient treatment and need ongoing support that's more than "see you next week," IOP bridges that gap perfectly.
Dealing with multiple issues—depression and drinking, anxiety and weed, trauma and whatever helps you sleep at night. Most people don't have just one neat problem, and our dual diagnosis approach gets that.
Wondering if this fits your situation? Read: Signs You Actually Need IOP Treatment
For specialized situations: IOP for Austin's Service Industry Workers or LGBTQ+ Considerations for IOP Treatment in Austin
The Science Behind Why IOP Actually Works
Research shows that intensive outpatient programs have completion rates between 60-80% and solid long-term success rates. Here are three things that make IOP effective:
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Real community connection: People who develop genuine relationships in treatment are way more likely to stick with it and maintain progress. Not forced friendship, but actual connections with people who get what you're going through.
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Practicing in your real environment: Learning coping skills while dealing with your actual life—your Austin apartment, your downtown job, your local bar scene—creates change that sticks better than artificial treatment settings.
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Flexible, person-centered approach: When treatment works with your life instead of requiring you to reorganize everything around treatment, people actually show up and engage.
Want to compare your options? Check out: IOP vs Traditional Weekly Therapy: What's the Difference?
Our IOP Services & Programs
Our intensive outpatient programs in Austin aren't one-size-fits-all bullshit. We've designed different tracks because everyone's problems are different, and cookie-cutter treatment doesn't work for real people.
Addiction Recovery IOP
Who it's for: People whose relationship with substances went from "fun at parties" to "need it to function" to "this is screwing up my life." This includes the tech worker who can't get through a day without Adderall, the bartender whose after-work drinks became before-work drinks, or anyone whose substance use is messing with the life they actually want.
Our approach: We skip the shame spiral and get to practical solutions. Austin's whole vibe often involves drinking, smoking, and party culture, so we help you figure out how to live here without needing substances to enjoy it.
You'll learn:
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How to go to shows on Red River without needing to get wasted
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Surviving networking events and work happy hours without liquid courage
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Building real friendships that don't require substances as social glue
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Managing Austin's work stress and competitive scene without chemical assistance
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Real shit we address:
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The cocaine problem that half of Austin pretends doesn't exist
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Weed dependency that everyone acts like isn't real
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Prescription drug issues that started legitimately and went sideways
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Alcohol patterns that Austin's drinking culture makes hard to recognize
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[Insert Your Drug Of Choice Here] that is ruining your life.
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Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Mental Health + Addiction Treatment
Who it's for: People dealing with both mental health and substance use shit simultaneously—which is most people, honestly. Depression and drinking, anxiety and weed, trauma and whatever helps you sleep—these combinations need treatment that gets how they're connected.
Our approach: Instead of treating mental health and addiction like they're completely separate problems, we work with them as the interconnected mess they usually are. Your therapist understands that sometimes the drinking started because of the depression, and sometimes the anxiety got worse because of the substances.
Integrated treatment includes:
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Understanding how your mental health and substance use feed off each other
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Learning to manage depression without self-medicating
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Dealing with anxiety without your usual coping mechanisms
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Processing trauma without numbing out afterward
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Building skills that work for both problems at the same time
Building ongoing support: Building Your Support System During IOP Recovery
Post-treatment life: Navigating Austin's Social Scene During Recovery
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Learn about our approach: Dual Diagnosis in Austin: Treating the Whole Mess
Treatment Looks Different Here. It Looks Like You.
The Treatment Process: From First Contact to Ongoing Recovery
Starting IOP treatment in Austin should be straightforward and supportive, not bureaucratic or intimidating. We've designed our process to connect you with appropriate care quickly while ensuring thorough assessment and planning.
1. Initial Contact and Assessment
Your first conversation with us happens within 24 hours of your call during business days. This isn't a sales conversation—it's a genuine assessment to understand your situation and determine whether our Austin IOP program matches your needs.
What the initial conversation covers:
• Current challenges and what prompted you to seek treatment • Your goals and what you hope to achieve • Practical considerations like schedule and transportation • Insurance coverage and payment options • Any immediate concerns or urgent needs
2. Comprehensive Assessment and Treatment Planning
The core of our intensive outpatient program combines group therapy, individual sessions, and practical skill development. This isn't passive treatment where you listen to lectures—it's active learning and community building.
Group therapy components:
• Process groups that explore current challenges and develop solutions • Skills groups focused on specific techniques like stress management or communication • Topic-focused sessions addressing common concerns like relationships or work stress • Community building activities that extend therapeutic relationships
Individual therapy provides:
• Personalized attention to your specific goals and challenges • Processing of deeper issues that may not be appropriate for group settings • Family or relationship work as needed and desired • Crisis planning and emergency support strategies
3. Program Participation and Skill Building
If IOP seems appropriate, you'll complete a more detailed assessment within a few days of initial contact. This involves meeting with a licensed clinician to develop a treatment plan that makes sense for your specific situation and goals.
Treatment planning results in:
• Clear goals and measurable outcomes • Specific therapy approaches tailored to your learning style and challenges • Group placement that connects you with peers facing similar issues • Individual therapy frequency and focus areas • Timeline and expectations for different phases of treatment
4. Integration and Transition Planning
Recovery doesn't end when formal treatment concludes. Our transition planning ensures you have ongoing support systems and resources for continued growth.
Continuing care options:
• Reduced-frequency individual therapy • Alumni groups and community events • Referrals to specialized long-term providers if needed • Access to crisis support and emergency consultation
Success is measured by whether you're building and maintaining a life that feels authentic and sustainable, not just by symptom reduction or abstinence from substances.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Awkward Recovery
What is an intensive outpatient program (IOP)?
An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is a structured level of care that provides more support than traditional weekly therapy but allows you to live at home and maintain work and family responsibilities. IOP typically involves 3-4 hours of treatment per session, 3-4 days per week, for 12-16 weeks.
IOP is considered a step between traditional outpatient therapy (usually 1 hour per week) and residential treatment (24/7 care). It provides the intensity needed to address significant mental health or addiction challenges while preserving your ability to apply new skills in your real-world environment immediately.
How much does IOP cost in Austin?
IOP costs vary significantly based on insurance coverage, which is why we verify your benefits within 24 hours of initial contact.
Insurance coverage for IOP:
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We currently work with Tricare and are actively expanding our insurance contracts (Please Call and Ask! We might be In-Network already but have not updated the website.)
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Coverage typically includes 70-90% of treatment costs after deductibles
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Some plans require prior authorization, which we handle for you
For those without adequate insurance coverage:
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Sliding scale fees based on income and financial situation (Limited Availability)
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Payment plans that spread costs over time
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Transparent pricing with no hidden fees or surprise charges
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Can I work while attending IOP in Austin?
Absolutely yes. Our Austin IOP program was specifically designed for working professionals who need intensive treatment but cannot step away from their careers.
How we accommodate Austin work schedules:
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Evening programs: 6:00-9:00 PM Monday, Tuesday, Thursday
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Accommodations for business travel and project deadlines
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Virtual participation: Telehealth options for individual sessions (Not group therapy)
Work-related support includes:
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Strategies for managing job stress without previous coping mechanisms
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Skills for professional networking and business social events
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Techniques for setting healthy boundaries between work and personal wellness
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How long does IOP treatment take in Austin?
Standard duration: 12-16 weeks is typical for most IOP programs, but length is individualized based on your specific goals, progress, and circumstances rather than predetermined timelines.
Factors that influence treatment duration:
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Complexity of challenges: Multiple diagnoses or long-standing issues may benefit from longer treatment
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Individual progress rate: Some people achieve goals more quickly, others need additional time
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Life circumstances: Major stressors or changes during treatment may extend beneficial treatment time
For detailed timeline information: How Long Does IOP Treatment Actually Take?
Preparing for the process: Preparing for IOP: A Real Guide for Austin Professionals
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What conditions does IOP treat?
IOP effectively treats a wide range of mental health and substance use conditions, particularly when these challenges are interfering with daily functioning but don't require 24/7 medical supervision.
Mental health conditions commonly treated in IOP:
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Depression: Including major depression, persistent depressive disorder, and seasonal affective disorder
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Anxiety disorders: Generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, and specific phobias
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Trauma and PTSD: Processing traumatic experiences with intensive therapeutic support
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Bipolar disorder: Mood stabilization and management during stable periods
Substance use disorders treated in IOP:
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Alcohol use disorder: From problem drinking to severe addiction
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Cannabis use disorder: Daily use that's become problematic or compulsive
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Stimulant use disorders: Including cocaine, methamphetamine, or prescription stimulant abuse
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Prescription medication misuse: Opioids, benzodiazepines, or other prescription drugs
Dual diagnosis treatment: Many people have both mental health and substance use challenges simultaneously. IOP is particularly effective for integrated treatment that addresses both concerns together rather than separately.
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Do you accept insurance for IOP treatment in Austin?
We currently work with Tricare and are actively expanding our insurance network to include additional providers. We're in the process of contracting with more insurance companies to make our services accessible to more Austin residents.
Tricare coverage includes: • Active duty military and family members • Veterans with Tricare benefits • Prior authorization handling (we take care of the paperwork) • Clear explanation of your specific benefits and coverage
For other insurance plans: • We're actively working on contracts with major providers • Call (512) 872-4605 to check on the status of your specific insurance • We can verify whether your plan has out-of-network benefits that may apply
If insurance doesn't cover everything: • Payment plans: with no interest • Sliding scale fees: Reduced rates based on income documentation • Transparent pricing: You'll know exactly what you'll pay before starting
How do I start IOP treatment in Austin?
Getting started is straightforward and typically happens quickly because we understand that when you're ready for change, waiting weeks for treatment can derail motivation.
Step 1: Initial contact
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Call: (512) 872-4605 during business hours for immediate response
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Online form: Submit contact information for callback within 24 hours
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What to expect: 15-20 minute conversation about your situation and needs
Step 2: Assessment and planning
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Comprehensive assessment: Usually scheduled within 2-3 days of initial contact
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Treatment planning: Collaborative development of goals and approach
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Insurance verification: Benefits checked and costs explained clearly
Step 3: Program start
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Orientation: Introduction to facility, staff, and other participants
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First sessions: Begin with supportive focus on comfort and engagement
Timeline from first call to treatment start: Most clients begin IOP within 3-7 days of initial contact, depending on insurance authorization requirements and your schedule preferences.
Ready to get started? Read our step-by-step guide: What to Expect in Your First Week of IOP
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For family members: Family Guide to Supporting Someone in IOP Treatment
Getting Started with IOP Treatment
Starting IOP treatment in Austin should be straightforward and supportive. We've streamlined our process to connect you with appropriate care quickly while ensuring thorough assessment and planning.
1. Call Our Admissions Team
Phone: (512) 872-4605
Email: Contact form available on our website for non-urgent inquiries
Response time: Within 24 hours during business days (Monday-Friday)
What to expect: A genuine conversation with someone who understands what you're going through. No sales pressure, no minimizing of your concerns, just honest assessment of whether our Austin IOP program matches your needs.
2. Initial Assessment
Your first conversation covers:
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Current challenges and what brought you to consider IOP treatment
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Your goals and what you hope to achieve
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Practical considerations like schedule, transportation, and work obligations
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insurance coverage and payment options
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Any immediate concerns or urgent needs
If our program isn't the right fit, we'll help you identify better options. Austin has good treatment resources, and we're familiar with which programs serve different needs.
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3. Benefits Verification and Planning
We verify your insurance benefits within 24 hours of initial contact and explain your coverage in clear terms. If insurance doesn't cover everything you need, we'll discuss payment options and financial assistance before you commit to treatment.
4. Begin Treatment
Most clients start within a few days of initial assessment. Our program structure allows new participants to join existing groups while maintaining therapeutic progress for everyone.
Before your first session:
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Brief intake appointment to finalize your treatment plan
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Orientation to our facility and community guidelines
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Introduction to your individual therapist
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Any immediate questions or concerns addressed
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Questions About Getting Started?
"What if I'm not sure I need IOP?" The assessment conversation helps clarify whether our program matches your needs or if other options might be more appropriate.
"I'm worried about taking time away from work." Our evening and weekend options work around most Austin professional schedules.
"What if I don't connect with the group?" Group dynamics matter, and we can adjust placement or timing to improve fit.
Ready to take the next step? Call (512) 872-4605 today to speak with our admissions team.
Taking this step today means you could begin treatment this week.
Crisis Resources - Available 24/7
If you're experiencing a mental health emergency:
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National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
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Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
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Austin Crisis Hotline: (512) 472-HELP (4357)
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Emergency services: 911
Local Austin Crisis Resources:
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Austin-Travis County Integral Care Crisis Services
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Dell Children's Medical Center Crisis Services
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University of Texas Counseling and Mental Health Center (for students)
National Resources:
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SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
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National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): 1-800-950-6264
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National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
Crisis support is available immediately. Don't wait if you're in danger or experiencing thoughts of self-harm.