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Helpful resources for families

(The following information is from The Parents' How-to Guide to Children's Mental Health Services in MA; Boston Bar Association with support from Boston Children's Hospital.)

General sites

Specific diagnoses

Finding a provider

If you have insurance, you should start by calling the member services number that is usually printed on your insurance card. Please note that there may be a separate number to call for mental health services.

  1. the type of service you need
  2. your location
  3. your insurance information


They will email your request to their membership list.
 

Getting access to health care

Massachusetts has many organizations and state offices dedicated to helping parents find health care coverage. Several key starting points are listed below:


MassHealth information

There are many resources that provide information about the MassHealth program. In addition to those listed above, under "Getting Access to Health Care," you may want to look at:

  • MassHealth Information
    This is the main website for the state office that runs MassHealth and it includes application information, forms you can download and contact information.
  • Community Partners, Inc.
    This is a website with good information about the different MassHealth programs, including links to local organizations that can help with applications.
  • Office of Medicaid Board of Hearings: 800-655-0338
    To appeal a decision through the Fair Hearings Board process, fax your request for a hearing to 617-210-5820.

Legal assistance

If you need legal advocacy or information, the following organizations may be able to help:

  • Health Law Advocates, Inc.: 617-338-5241
    Helps with health care problems including mental health issues.
  • Massachusetts Advocates for Children: 617-357-8431
    Has special expertise in school issues.
  • Mental Health Legal Advisors Committee: 617-338-2345
    State-funded program that helps with mental health issues and has a number of publications on the legal rights of people with mental health problems.
  • Massachusetts Legal Help
    This website is run by legal services offices in Massachusetts, and it has a great deal of information on health care and other issues. The website has a complete listing of legal services agencies in the state and you can use this list to find an advocate in your area.

School services and information

Because special education is run by each city or town's school system, the best starting place is often your own school's special education coordinator. If you are having difficulties, or want more general information about special education in Massachusetts, the MA Department of Education is a good starting point.

Other state departments and agencies

Juvenile justice system