May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, but at United Way of Central Alabama, our commitment to mental wellness lasts all year long. Mental health challenges affect more people than many realize. Nationally, one in four individuals experiences a mental illness; and here in Central Alabama, nearly 19% of adults report struggling with their mental health for at least half the month.
That’s why we work every day to connect individuals and families to local agencies that provide accessible, affordable care — because no one should have to face emotional challenges alone. In 2024, more than 35,000 people received mental health services through our network of partners, including crisis intervention, counseling and screenings.
The following are some of our trusted community partners who provide free or low-cost mental health services across Central Alabama.
Crisis Center
What began in 1970 as a small, volunteer-run phone line has grown into a vital hub for mental health crisis support across Central Alabama. Today, the Crisis Center:
• Operates 24/7 phone and text lines for people in crisis, including youth-focused support.
• Provides trauma-informed care for sexual assault survivors, including forensic exams, counseling and legal advocacy.
• Offers community education on substance use, overdose prevention and trauma response.
Oasis Counseling for Women and Children
Founded in 1995 to address the mental health needs of underserved women, Oasis has become one of the few women-centered counseling centers in the state. Oasis Counseling:
• Provides therapy for women, children and families, including play therapy and group sessions.
• Offers psychosocial assessments and trauma-informed support tailored to each individual.
Gateway
As Birmingham’s first social services agency, Gateway has supported children and families since 1891. Today, it remains a statewide leader in trauma-informed care where they continue to:
• Support children in foster care through therapy, education and life skills training.
• Help families stay safely together through in-home counseling and parent support.
• Train educators and foster parents on child trauma and behavior management.
The Amelia Center
The Amelia Center was founded in partnership with Children’s of Alabama after the sudden loss of four camp counselors, including Amelia Elliott. Since opening in 1997, the United Way partner agency has:
• Provided grief counseling for children, teens and parents.
• Offered individual and group support in a safe, understanding environment.