Mental Health Action Trust (MHAT) - is an NGO based out of Calicut, a growing city hub located in Northern Kerala in South India. We began providing free, comprehensive, and high-quality psychiatric and mental health care in late 2008 to one community and 15 patients. We now provide services to more than 40 communities and more than 3000 individuals and families in rural poverty. We currently operate across 5 districts of Kerala state – Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Palakkad, and Alappuzha.
In recent times, the necessity of a public health approach to mental health has gained significance. Mental health research and advocacy suggests that bridging the gap in providing mental health-care, especially in low-income and developing countries, requires a greater role for society. In India, the shortage of mental health professionals and facilities has led to family members becoming caregivers for their loved ones suffering from mental illness. The burden of care and stigma attached to mental illness serves as a double setback for families already mired in poverty.
Our mission is to help people with mental illness access psychiatric care and treatment without stigma, prejudice, and economic barriers. By building a model of mental healthcare centered within the community, we help affected individuals and families rebuild their lives, improve their ties with the community, and reintegrate into the larger society.
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Services Offered
Mental Health Services for Rural Communities and Under priviledged
Fees and Payment
Not for Profit
Services Offered To: Adults Teens Children
Languages: English Regional Language
Payment: Sliding Scale
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A community counseling agency is a group therapy practice that offers affordable mental health services. Most are independent non-profit agencies, state agencies, or publicly-funded agencies. A few may restrict who is eligible for services, so it is a good idea to check when you call.
Community counseling agencies are generally more affordable than other therapy providers, but how much more affordable they are will depend on whether you qualify for a discount or sliding scale fee (or if they accept your insurance). Many, but not all, have a policy that they won't turn away anyone due to inability to pay. You should ask about their fees when you first call.
Expect to talk to kind people who want to help you find the care you need. Most community agencies strive to connect you with a live person within 24 hours, if not immediately. If you're asked to hold or leave a message, don't give up; just leave a message and wait. You should hear back pretty quickly.
Most agencies try to set up an initial assessment appointment within a week (some do within 24 hours), though the waitlist to start therapy is usually longer—about a few weeks on average. If you're not eligible or if the agency is not right for you, it's usually still worth it to call or drop in, because staff are knowledgeable about local options and can often refer you to one.