Cheap Counseling Houston: How To Find Low Cost Houston Counselors

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Affordable therapy is available to anyone, and in this article, I will share a number of places that you can visit for low cost counseling in Houston.  Contrary to what many believe…

You can get access to therapy even if you are uninsured or currently out of work. 

The clinics in this article operate on what is called a “sliding scale“. This simply means they will bill you based on your income…whatever that income is. While health insurance is not needed, it’s accepted at most of these clinics, so these are also good options if you have coverage from your job. 

The bottom line is whether insured or not, if you are seeking individual therapy, couples therapy, family counseling, or something else, these are places that you can contact to find guidance for some of the issues you are dealing with. 

Before providing you with affordable/free therapy options in Houston, let’s first talk about the difference between psychiatry and counseling. 

What is the difference between Psychiatry and Counseling? 

There are many ways to beat a diagnosis of depression.

Some rely on psychiatry, others use counseling, and some use a combination of both. Everyone is different, so consult with your family and your doctor to determine which is best for you.

What is Psychiatry?

Psychiatry is practiced by a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is a doctor who prescribes psychiatric medications to their patients.

Typically you won’t receive lots of “talk therapy” from a psychiatrist. They are more focused on providing you with medications.

If you need a local psychiatrist, refer to the article we wrote titled Where To Find Low Cost Psychiatric Clinics In Houston.

What is a Counselor?

A counselor’s primary focus is talking to you to help you overcome your problems. This is commonly referred to as “talk therapy”. Unlike psychiatrists, counselors and therapists cannot prescribe medications. 

Talk therapy isn’t only about talking about problems, it’s also about helping you come to solutions.

Talk therapy helps by assisting you with processing negative thoughts, looking at life from a different angle or discovering more productive ways to react to events or toxic people in your life.

If counseling sounds like a starting point for helping you overcome your problems, the rest of this article will provide you with plenty of options for low cost counseling in Houston.

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Low Cost Counseling in Houston

Below you will find multiple clinics that offer low cost counseling in Houston.

1. Baylor Counseling Clinic

The first clinic that we will start with is Baylor College of Medicine Psychiatry.

Baylor is a good option for low cost counseling in Houston.

They offer to counsel to those with health insurance and low income. BCM operates on sliding-scale payments.

There is only one BCM clinic which is in the Houston medical center.

Where is Baylor Counseling Clinic located?

• Baylor Counseling Clinic – 1977 Butler Blvd, Houston, TX 77030 – 713.798.4857

Who is Eligible for Baylor Counseling Clinic?

Everyone from those insured and uninsured is welcome at BCM. You can find out if your coverage is accepted at their Insurance Accepted page.

If you don’t have health insurance ask them about sliding scale fees. Also, if you are on a budget, ask them to tell you the cost upfront.

What services does Baylor Counseling Clinic offer?

BCM offers medication management, and individual, marital, group, and family psychotherapy.

How do I make an appointment for Baylor Counseling Clinic?

You will need to contact their appointment line at 713.798.4857.

2. Catholic Charities 

Catholic Charities offers counseling services to children, adults, and seniors.

Counseling is offered in both English and Spanish.

Some of the primary reasons clients visit Catholic Charities are couples counseling, children having problems in school, and those who’ve experienced trauma, anxiety, and depression.

Where are  Catholic Charities counseling locations? 

Catholic Charities offers counseling services at 6 Houston area locations.

• Tomball: Prince of Peace Catholic Community, 19222 Tomball Parkway, Houston, TX 77070
• Central Houston: Moran Health Center, 2615 Fannin St., Houston, TX 77002
• West Houston: St. John Vianney Catholic Community, Social Ministry Office, 625 Nottingham Oaks Trail, Houston, TX 77079
• Fort Bend County: 12300 Parc Crest Dr., Stafford, TX 77477
• Spring: St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church, 7810 Cypresswood Dr., Spring, TX 77379
• Spring: Christ the Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 18511 Klein Church Road, Spring, TX 77379

What services are provided at Catholic Charities?

Some of the primary reasons clients visit Catholic Charities are:

• Couples, premarital and marriage counseling
• Grief and loss
• Youth dealing with bullying
• Parents needing guidance raising children
• Anger and anxiety issues
• People suffering from hopelessness
• Adults and youth dealing with daily stress
• Caregivers supporting mentally and physically challenged family members

Catholic Charities also offers a unique School Counseling Program to those who attend local Catholic schools in Houston.

Children in this free program can participate in weekly individual and group sessions.

Here is a listing of the schools that hosts this counseling program:

• St. Augustine Catholic School
• St. Pius V Catholic School
• Queen of Peace Catholic School
• St. Mary of the Purification Catholic School
• St. Christopher Catholic School
• Assumption Catholic School
• St. Peter the Apostle School
• Our Lady of Mt Carmel
• Our Lady of Mt. Carmel
• Our Lady of Guadalupe
• Holy Ghost School

For more information, call 713.874.6602.

Who is eligible for services?

Catholic Charities accepts many insurance plans and offers sliding-scale counseling services for children, families, singles, and couples.

How do I schedule an appointment?

To schedule an appointment or learn more about Catholic Charity services contact their intake line at 713.874.6590 or 866.649.5862.

3. Center for Creative Resources

You can find low cost counseling services in Houston at Center for Creative Resources. CCR is located in the Montrose neighborhood, and they provide mental health counseling to adults, children, and couples.

CCR should definitely be on your radar if you’re a graduate student. They provide training to those who need supervised hours for their therapy license.

Where is Center For Creative Resources located?

This clinic is located in the Montrose neighborhood near the intersection of Montrose and Westheimer.

• Center for Creative Resources – 816 Hawthorne Street Houston, TX  77006 – 713.461.7599

Who is eligible for Center for Creative Resources?

CCR offers counseling services to adults, children, and couples.

The agency offers sliding scale fees. This simply means the cost of your services will be determined by your income.

What services does CCR offer?

The counselors at CCR are qualified to treat the following topics:

• Grief and loss
• Addictions
• Relationship conflicts
• LGBTQ matters
• Stress management
• Trauma, abuse, neglect
• Disabilities and chronic illness
• Low self-esteem
• Spiritual journey
• Parenting
• Sexuality and dysfunction
• And many, many more issues

How do I make an appointment with Center  for Creative Resources?

To find out where you would fall on the CCR sliding scale, call them at 713.461.7599.

4. Central Care 

Central Care Health Services does not offer direct counseling services. Despite this, they can help you find low cost counseling in Houston by referring you to other agencies.

Obtaining counseling services via Central Care may require an extra step, although they do offer primary care services at each location. Another reason to consider Central Care is if there is a location near you.

Where are Central Care locations located?

There are 4 Central Care clinics scattered throughout Houston. Below you will find the addresses of all clinics.

• MLK Clinic –  8610 MLK Blvd Houston, TX 77033 – 713.734.0199
• 3rd Ward Clinic –  3315 Delano St, Houston, TX 77004  – 713.333.1336
• Acres Homes Clinic –  1102 – A  Pinemont, Houston, TX 77018 – 281.822.0900
• Hillcroft Clinic –  14087 South Main St, Houston, TX 77035 – 832.308.1060

Who is eligible for Central Care services?

Central Care will not turn anyone away. They will help you find counseling or primary care services regardless of insurance, citizenship status, or income.

What counseling services will Central Care screen for?

• Individual, group, or family therapy
• Medication evaluation and maintenance
• Stress Management
• Supportive services

How do I make an appointment with Central Care?

The easiest way to book an appointment is to contact the clinic you are interested in visiting. Or you can call their main number at 713.734.0199.

5. Vecino Health Centers (Denver Harbor and Airline)  

Vecino Health Centers offer yet another option for low cost counseling in Houston.

Both of the Vecino clinics at Denver Harbor and Airline offer counseling services in English and Spanish.

Where are the Vecino Health Centers located?

There are two Vecino Health Centers. One off the North Freeway at Airline and the other on the east side of town in the Denver Harbor neighborhood.

• Denver Harbor Clinic – 424 Hahlo Street, Houston, TX 77020 – 713.674.3326
• Airline Children’s Clinic – 5808 Airline Drive, Houston, TX 77076 – 713.695.4013

Who is eligible for services at Vecino Health Centers?

At Denver Harbor Clinic, children and adults can receive both counseling and primary care services. The Airline Clinic ONLY treats children.

What counseling services are offered at Vecino Clinics?

Denver Harbor clinic treats both children and adults. You can be treated for the conditions below:

• Depression
• Mood swings
• Managing anxiety
• Substance abuse
• Grief and trauma

At the Airline Children’s Clinic, kids are treated for the following:

• Behavior problems in school or home
• Managing anxiety and fears
• Substance abuse
• Trauma, abuse, or domestic violence
• Anger or suicidal thoughts

At Vecino Health Centers, you can choose individual, group, family or couples therapy.

How do I make an appointment with Vecino Health Center?

To make an appointment with Denver Harbor Clinic call 713.674.3326. For Airline Children’s Clinic simply dial 713.695.4013.

6. re: Mind Support (formerly Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance)

ReMind is a nonprofit that organizes support groups for individuals diagnosed with depression or bipolar disorder. These support groups are also open to family members and friends.

For those who have worked in healthcare for 10 or more years, you may remember a nonprofit named Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA). Well, that organization is now ReMind. It same agency; it just operates under a new name.

Where is ReMind Support located?

The main office is located on Buffalo Speedway, although their support groups are scattered throughout the Houston area.

• Main Office – 3800 Buffalo Speedway Ste 350 Houston, TX 77098 – 713.600.1131

What services are offered at Remind? 

ReMind provides support groups to individuals with depression and bipolar disorder and family and friends.

Support groups are offered all over Houston and typically last 1 hour and 30 minutes. Below you will find more information about the support groups offered.

General Support Groups in Houston

Support groups are offered to anyone 18 and older with signs or a depression or bipolar disorder diagnosis. Family and friends are also welcome to attend these support groups.

For a listing of general support groups around Houston, see the table below.  Before you attend any of the support groups ReMind at 713.600.1131 to ensure the dates and times are correct. You can also check this link that ReMind updates regularly.

Area	Location	Day + Time	Group Type
Braeswood	Jewish Family Service - 4131 S. Braeswood, 77025 (first floor conference room)	Monday at 7 pm	Call for group types
Bunker Hill	Chapelwood UMC - 11140 Greenbay, 77024 (Williams Building)	Tuesday 7 pm (Room 204)	Adult
Bunker Hill	Chapelwood UMC -11140 Greenbay, 77024 (Williams Building)	Tuesday 7 pm (Room 104)	Young adult
Clear Lake	Webster Presbyterian Church - 201 W. NASA Parkway, 77598	Thursday 7 pm (Bouton Building Library)	Adult
Clear Lake	Webster Presbyterian Church - 201 W. NASA Parkway, 77598	Thursday 7 pm (Bouton Building Library)	Young adult age 18 to 30
Clear Lake	Webster Presbyterian Church - 201 W. NASA Parkway, 77598	Thursday 7 pm (Bouton Building 101)	For Family and Friends
Clear Lake	Webster Presbyterian Church - 201 W. NASA Parkway, 77598	Saturday 1 pm (Bouton Building 101)	Call for group types
Copperfield	West Houston Church - of Christ 10100 West Rd, 77095 (Room 204)	Tuesday 7 pm	Call for group types
Cypress	Cypress Bible Church - 11711 Cypress N. Houston, 77429	Sunday 6 pm (Cabin B)	Call for group types
Galleria	The Hope and Healing Center - 5025 Riverway Drive, 77056	Tuesday 6 pm (Room 104)	Family and Friends
Heights	Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church - 2025 W. 11th St, 77008 (Conference Hall)	Thursday 7 pm	Call for group types
Jersey Village	Foundry UMC - 8350 Jones Road, 77065 (Scout Bldg, Room 201)	Wednesday pm	Call for group types
Katy	St. Peters UMC - 20775 Kingsland Blvd, 77450 (Sanctuary Bldg, Room S 209) *park in restaurant lot	Tuesday 7 pm	Adults
Katy	UT Physicians - Cinco Ranch - 23923 Cinco Ranch Blvd, 77494 (conference room)	Friday 11:30 am	Call for group types
Kingwood	Kingwood UMC* 1799 Woodland Hills Dr, 77339, (Bldg C, RM: E-208)	Monday – 7:00pm	Call for group types
Medical Center	St. Luke’s Presbyterian 8915 Timberside Dr, 77025 (Rm 123) Entrance @ Durhill	Monday - 7:00pm	Call for group types
Missouri City	First UMC* 3900 Lexington Blvd, 77459 (Chapel Parlor)	Thursday – 7:00pm	Call for group types
Montrose	401 Branard St., 77006 1st floor	Monday - 7:00pm (Rm 112/113) *Must be LGBT friendly	Call for group types
Montrose	401 Branard St., 77006 1st floor	LGBT Daytime Thursday - 11:00am (Rm 113) *Must be LGBT friendly	Call for group types
Museum District	P.E.E.R.S. for Hope House 5518 Jackson St. 77004 (Upstairs Meeting Room) *free street parking	Wednesday -7:00pm	Call for group types
Pasadena	Asbury UMC* 5354 Space Center Blvd. 77505, (Main Building, Room 2)	Wednesday – 7:00pm	Call for group types
Pearland	First UMC*, Pearland 2314 N. Grand Blvd., 77581 (Bethel Building, Room 200)	Wednesday – 7:00pm	Call for group types
Richmond	First Baptist Church 502 South 5th Street, 77469 (Parlor Room)	Tuesday – 7:00pm	Call for group types
River Oaks	Central Houston Must have prior approval Call 713-600-1131. *1 hr group	Thursday - 7:00pm	Adolescent Group (ages 13-17)
River Oaks	St. Luke’s UMC* 3471 Westheimer, 77027 (EN208)	Tuesday – 11:00am	Call for group types
River Oaks	St. Luke’s UMC* 3471 Westheimer, 77027 (Chapel Parlor)	Thursday - 7:00pm	Call for group types
River Oaks	St. John the Divine Episcopal 2450 River Oaks Blvd, 77019 (L21)	Saturday - 10:00am	Call for group types
River Oaks	St. John the Divine Episcopal 2450 River Oaks Blvd, 77019 (L21) *Open to females only	Friday - 12:00pm	Women only
Sharpstown	St. Luke’s UMC* 6856 Bellaire Blvd, 77074 (Room 1304)	Tuesday - 7:00pm	Call for group types
Spring	Bammel Church of Christ 2700 Cypress Creek Pkwy, 77068 (Ministry Building)	Thursday - 7:30pm	Call for group types
Spring Branch	Korean Community Ctr. of Houston 1809 Hollister St, 77080 (Library)	Tuesday - 6:30pm	Call for group types
Sugar Land	Christ Church Sugar Land 3300 Austin Pkwy, 77479 (Family Life Ctr, RM 312)	Tuesday – 7:00pm	Call for group types
Westchase	Tracy Gee Community Center 3599 Westcenter Dr., 77042 (Room 110-B)	Wednesday - 12:00pm	Call for group types
The Woodlands	Christ Church United Methodist 6363 Research Forest Drive, 77381	Tuesday -11:00 am (Rm S112)	Call for group types
The Woodlands	Christ Church United Methodist 6363 Research Forest Drive, 77381	Tuesday-7:30pm (Room 114/115)

Adolescent Support Groups in Houston

These support groups are offered to teens from age 13 to 17 and are held at local high schools like Chavez, Hastings, Waltrip, and Kashmere. Go here to see the complete listing of adolescent support groups.

Who is eligible for services?

Anyone 13 years or older who is affected by a family or friend who has depression or bipolar disorder.

What is the cost of services?

There is no charge for services at ReMind. The support groups are free to the public.

How can I get more information?

Contact ReMind at 713.600.1131 to find a support group or learn more about depression and bipolar disorder.

7. El Centro de Corazon 

El Centro de Corazon provides low cost counseling in Houston to residents on the SE side of town.

They offer counseling and also primary care services.

Where are El Centro de Corazon clinics located? 

There are 4 clinics all located in SE Houston. See those locations below.

• Eastwood Health Center – 412 Telephone Rd Houston, TX 77023 – 713.660.1880
• John S. Dunn Health Center – 7635 Canal St Houston, TX 77012 – 713.660.1880
• Magnolia Health Multi-Service Center – 7037 Capitol St, Suite N100, Houston, TX 77011 – 713.660.1880
• Southeast Health Center – 5901 Long Drive, Houston, TX 77087 – 713.660.1880

Who is eligible for El Centro de Corazon services?

Services are provided to all regardless of income or health insurance coverage. El Centro bills are based on “sliding scale” fees.

For those with insurance, contact the clinic at 713.660.1880 to see if your plan is accepted.

What services are offered at El Centro de Corazon?

• Individual, couples, and family therapy
• Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy
• Play + Art Therapy
• Psychiatric Evaluation
• Medication Management
• Psychological Testing
• Psychological Assessments

How do I make an appointment for El Centro?

Contact them at 713.660.1880 to make an appointment for counseling.

8. Family Houston

Family Houston offers low cost counseling in Houston to residents who live near Washington Avenue in the 6th Ward neighborhood.

Where are Family Houston clinics located?

There are 4 clinics located throughout the Houston area.

• Family Services Clinic (Washington Ave) – 4625 Lillian Street Houston, TX 77007 – 713.861.4849
• Bay Area Clinic – 1300 Bay Area Blvd, Building A, Suite 240, Houston, TX 77058
• Baytown Clinic – 1300 Rollingbrook Drive, Suite 406, Baytown, TX
• Fort Bend Clinic – 12300 Parc Crest Dr, Stafford, TX 77477
• The Woodlands Clinic – 1600 Lake Front Circle, Suite 200, The Woodlands, TX 77380

Who is eligible for Family Houston?

Counseling services are offered to both children and adults.

Family Services offers sliding scale fees for those who are uninsured. They also accept most forms of insurance as well as Medicaid and CHIP.

What services are offered at Family Houston?

Family Services offers the following counseling services:

• Help to manage depression and anxiety
• Relations issues between parents and children
• Couples counseling
• Substance Abuse problems
• Stress management
• Spanish Counseling available
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

How do I make an appointment with Family Houston?

No matter which clinic you are interested in visiting, make an appointment for counseling by calling 713.861.4849. 

9. Fuller Life Family Therapy 

The Fuller Life Family Therapy Institute offers low cost counseling in Houston for everyone in the family.

Where is Fuller Life located?

The clinic is located in the Bellaire neighborhood near the intersection of Bissonnet and Newcastle.

• Fuller Life – 4545 Bissonnet, Suite 289, Bellaire, TX – 855.245.5433

Who is eligible for services?

Counseling is available to children, teens, and adults.

What services are provided?

Individual, marriage, family, kids, and teen counseling is offered to clients.

Here are specific challenges that Fuller Life can help you with:

• Illness
• Grief and loss
• Financial struggles
• Anxiety
• Addiction
• Eating Disorders
• Co-parenting
• School problems
• Abuse – physical, emotional, sexual
• Suicidal thoughts
• Self-mutilation

How much does counseling cost?

Fuller Life Family Therapy bills are based on the “sliding scale” for anyone lacking health insurance or income. They will help you no matter your situation.

Typical fees can be seen below:

• $35 to 95 per session for a master’s level therapist
• $20 to 45 per session for student therapists

Call the office at 855.245.5433 to learn what your rate will be.

How can I make an appointment?

Call Fuller LIfe at 855.245.5433.

11. Harris Center (formerly MHMRA Harris)

Harris Center (MHMRA Harris)  provides outpatient counseling services to both children and adults.

They service low-income residents of Harris County via 4 outpatient clinics.

Where are the Harris Center (MHMRA Harris) Outpatient Clinics located?

There are 4 Harris Center clinics located at each corner of the city.

• Northwest Clinic – 3737 Dacoma Houston, TX 77092
• Northeast Clinic – 7200 North Loop East  Houston, TX 77028
• Southwest Clinic – 9401 Southwest Freeway 3rd Floor Houston, TX 77074
• Southeast Clinic – 5901 Long Drive Houston, TX 77087

Who is Eligible for Harris Center (MHMRA Harris)?

Harris Center treats both adults and children. Below you will find the eligibility criteria for both.

Adults

For adult services, you must be a Harris County resident and be 18 years old.

All four of the clinics above provide adults with counseling services.

Harris Center treats individuals with serious mental illnesses. Their priority populations are:

• Major Depression
• Schizophrenia
• Schizoaffective
• Bipolar Disorder
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
• Anxiety Disorders

Children and Adolescents

HC treats children who reside in Harris County between the age of 3 and 17. If your child is younger than the age of 3 and needs a behavioral assessment, they would need to be referred to Early Childhood Intervention or ECI. ECI services children from birth to 3 years old. To schedule an ECI appointment, call the Harris Center Patient Information Line at 713.970.7000.

Only the Southwest and Southeast Clinics offer children and adolescent counseling services.

Eligibility will be determined during your Intake Assessment. Your diagnosis, symptoms, and functioning at home and in the community will all be assessed to determine eligibility.

How do I make a Harris Center (MHMRA Harris) appointment?

HC does not offer appointments, only walk-in appointments are accepted.

You can visit any of the 4 area clinics for adult mental health services. Walk-ins are accepted any day Monday through Friday from 7:30 am to 3 pm for an intake appointment.

For children, the Southwest Clinic (4th floor) is the only eligibility center. Again, walk-in appointments are accepted Monday through Friday from 7:30 am to 3 pm.

Walk-ins for both adults and children are processed on a first-come, first-serve basis. You are advised to arrive at 7 am to guarantee that you are seen.

Note: Monday or any day following the weekend typically drawn the longest waits. For this reason you should consider going as a walk-in on any day Tuesday through Friday.

What counseling services does Harris Center (MHMRA Harris) offer?

Clients at Harris Center (MHMRA Harris) are offered the following services:

• Mental health assessment
• Counseling and psychotherapy
• Psychosocial and rehab services
• Employment-related skills
• Housing-related skills
• Medication-related services
• Parent and child behavior management skills training
• Counseling (Cognitive Behavior Therapy)
• Juvenile Justice Mental health services
• And more

How do I make an appointment with Harris Center?

For more information on psychiatric services, use the following links for Adults and Children.

If you have questions, contact Harris Center (MHMRA Harris) 24 hours a day at 713.970.7000.  This number also connects you to the 24-hour Crisis Helpline. Call this number if you ever have a psychiatric crisis that is not life-threatening.

12. Harris Health System (Gold Card) 

If you have the Harris Health (Gold Card) you already have access to several low cost counseling clinics in Houston.

Harris Health offers counseling services to both children and adults. Below you will find a complete listing of clinics.

Where are the Harris Health Counseling Clinics located?

There are counseling clinics scattered all over the Harris County area.

• Martin Luther King Health Center – 3550 Swingle Rd Houston, TX 77047 – 713.547.1000  (Counseling offered)
• Acres Home Health Clinic – 818 Ringold St Houston, TX 77088 – 281.448.6391 (Counseling offered)
• Aldine Health Center – 4755 Aldine Mail Route Houston, TX 77039 – 281.985.7600
• Baytown Health Center – 1602 Garth Rd Baytown, TX 77520 – 281.837.2700 (Counseling offered)
• Casa de Amigos Health Center – 1615 N. Main St Houston, TX 77099 – 713.222.2272  (Counseling offered)
• Cypress Health Center – 12340 Jones Rd Suite 100 Houston, TX 77070 – 713.873.5240 (Pediatrics psychiatry, behavioral health therapy provided)
• El Franco Lee Health Center  – 8901 Boone Rd Houston, TX 77099 – 281.454.0500   (Counseling offered)
• Gulfgate Health Center – 7550 Office City Drive Houston, TX 77012 – 713.495.3700  (counseling offered) 
• Northwest Health Center – 1100 West 34th Street Houston, TX 77018 – 713.861.3939 (Counseling offered)
• Bear Creek Health Center – 5870 Highway 6 Suite 108 Houston, TX 77084 – 713.873.6860 (Pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral therapy offered)
• Pasadena Health Center – 3925 Fairmont Parkway Pasadena, TX 77504 – 713.873.6300  (Pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatry, psychology and behavioral therapy)
• Settegast Health Center – 9105 North Wayside Drive  Houston, TX 77028 – 713.633.2020 (Counseling offered)
• Sheldon Health Elementary Clinic – 17203 1/2 Hall Sheppard Houston, TX 77049  – 713.497.0990 (Children and Adolescent Developmental Assessments only)
• Southside Health Clinic – 1721 16th Street Galena Park, TX 77547 – 713.497.0940 – Behavioral Health: 713.497.0946 (Children and Adolescent Developmental Assessments only)
• Squatty Lyons Health Center – 1712 First Street E, Suite M20 Humble, TX 77338 – 281.446.4139 (Counseling offered)
• Strawberry Health Center – 927 Shaw Ave Pasadena, TX 77506 – 713.982.5900  (Counseling offered)
• Thomas Street Health Center – 2015 Thomas Street Houston, TX 77009 – 713.873.4000 (HIV/AIDS clients only, provides psychiatry and counseling)
• Vallbona Health Center – 6630 DeMoss St Houston, TX 77074 – 713.272.2600 (Counseling offered)

Who is Eligible for Harris Health counseling?

Only those who are enrolled in Harris Health System’s Financial Assistance Plan can receive counseling services.

How do I make a Harris Health System appointment?

You will need to apply if you do not have Harris Health System’s Financial Assistance Plan. We created a step-by-step guide to help you apply. You can find it here.

Those already enrolled in Harris Health System need to get a referral from their Harris Health doctor. A doctor’s referral is the only way to receive counseling services at Harris Health. 

For more information, contact Harris Health at 713.566.6509 for eligibility if you have Harris Health call the appointment at 713.526.4243 to arrange a doctor’s appointment to request a referral for counseling.

13. Hope Clinic 

Hope Clinic has a good story.

Located in the Alief neighborhood, Hope Clinic began as a volunteer clinic that was created by The Asian American Health Coalition.

Hope provides counseling services to both children and adults, and they provide services in different languages.

Below are the locations for the 3 clinics throughout Houston.

Where are the Hope Clinics in Houston located?

Hope clinics service the SW side of Houston.

• Hope Clinic Main Office -7001 Corporate Dr. Suite #120 Houston, TX 77036 – 713.773.0803 
• Hope Clinic Alief Office – 14438 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX 77083 – 281.568.5184
• Hope Clinic West Office – 12121 Westheimer Rd Suite #205, Houston, TX 77077 – 281.558.2737 

Who is eligible for counseling at Hope?

Counseling is offered to both children and adults. Hope Clinic is also unique in the fact that counseling is offered in 30 different languages. Here are some of the most common:

• Mandarin
• Cantonese
• Vietnamese
• Korean
• Burmese
• Arabic
• Spanish

What type of insurance is accepted?

This is an FQHC Clinic, which means they operate on the “sliding scale”.

Hope does accept most health insurances, including Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, and Affordable Care Act coverages.

How do I make an appointment?

To schedule your appointment, call Hope at 713.773.0803.

14. Hope and Healing Center 

Hope and Healing Center does not offer to counsel, although they do offer a number of other services.

What services are offered at Hope and Healing Center?

Below are some of the services offered:

• Daily Support Groups – Special Needs Parenting groups and Grief Support Groups are just a few of the support groups offered at Hope and Healing Center.
• Referrals for Counseling – Again, HHC does not provide direct counseling, but they can connect you with qualified mental health professionals.
• Seminars and CEUs – If you are a healthcare professional and need CEUs or simply want to network, HHC organizes monthly events.
• The Serenity Garden – This is a peaceful garden located at HHC. It offers water fountains, a walking trail, and a quiet, tranquil garden where you can find peace in a hectic world. The Hope and Healing Serenity Garden is open to the public during normal hours.

Where is Hope and Healing located?

The clinic is located in the Galleria area near Woodway and South Post Oak intersection.

• Hope and Healing – 717 Sage Rd Houston, TX 77056

How can I get more information about HHC?

Contact them at 713.871.1004.

15. Avenue 360 Clinics

Avenue 360 may seem like a new organization, although they’re not. The 360 Clinics are the result of a merger between Houston Area Community Services and Bering Omega Community.

Avenue 360 offers counseling services to low-income residents.

Where are the Avenue 360 Clinics in Houston?

There are two 360 Clinics in Houston. One near the 290/610 interchange and the other in Spring.

• 360 Avenue Main Campus – 2150 West 18th Street, Suite 300, Houston, TX 77008 – 713.426.0027
• Spring Cypress Clinic – 17010 Sugar Pine Drive, Houston, TX 77090 – 281.537.8627 

Who is eligible for 360 Avenue services?

Counseling is offered to both adults and adolescents.

360 Avenue provides low cost counseling in Houston, and they bill based on “sliding scale” fees.

Should you have health insurance, know that most plans are accepted, including Medicaid and Medicare.

What services are offered at Avenue 360?

• Psychiatry
• Mental Health
• Substance Abuse
• Medical Case Management
• Individual, group, and family therapy

How can I make an appointment with Avenue 360?

Contact 713.426.0027 or the number of the clinic you are interested in going to.

16. Houston-Galveston Institute

The Houston – Galveston Institute Counseling Center offers low cost counseling to both children and adults.

Where is the HGI Counseling Center located?

There is only one counseling center which is located in the Greenway Plaza area.

• HGI Center – 2990 Richmond Ave Ste 530 Houston, TX 77098, 713.526.8390

Who is eligible for counseling at HGI?

HGI counsels both children and adults.

What services does HGI offer?

• Tele-Therapy – If you cannot make it to the office, you can speak with a therapist via the phone or computer you’re reading this on.
• Training and CEUs – For those who need CEU hours for their license, you can obtain them at HGI. Monthly training sessions are offered.
• EAP services to employers – Houston – Galveston Institute Counseling Center offers Employee Assistance services to companies.
• Individual, couples, and family therapy
• Depression and hopelessness
• Grief or loss
• Suicidal thoughts
• Eating disorders
• Intimacy or sexual concerns

Are there any fees for counseling?

HGI charges $115 for a 50-minute session. Some forms of insurance are accepted, and they also offer “sliding scale” fees to those who qualify.

Contact 713.526.8390 for any questions regarding fees.

How can I make an appointment for HGI Counseling?

There are two ways.

The first is to call them at 713.526.8390 or email admin@talkhgi.com.

The second way is to go as a walk-in.  Walk-ins are welcome Monday-Friday, 3 pm to 7 pm, and Saturdays, 9 am to 5 pm.

17. Innovative Alternatives 

IA offers counseling services to both children and adults.

One unique feature of IA is they offer Mediation services.  Counseling is provided to individuals, while mediation involves multiple parties.

If you were to have a disagreement with a family member or friend, mediation would be a good method of resolving your problem. For more on the differences between counseling and mediation services, go here.

Where is the clinic located?

IA is located in Clear Lake just off Bay Area Blvd and Saturn Lane.

• Innovative Alternatives Clinic – 1335 Regents Park Dr. Ste 240 Houston, TX 77058 – 832.864.6000

Who is eligible for services?

IA offers counseling services to both children and adults.

What services are offered at Innovative Alternatives?

IA focused on general counseling, family preservation, and victim assistance.

Currently, they offer a Victim Assistance Program which includes 8 free therapy sessions. In addition, up to 18 hours of free workshops or therapy sessions are offered to anyone who is a victim of a violent crime.

Here is a listing of other services offered at IA:

• Couples and family therapy
• Divorce Mediation
• Group therapy
• Family reconciliation
• Substance Abuse
• Domestic violence counseling

What are the fees for counseling with IA?

Innovative Alternatives offers low cost counseling in Houston, and because of this, no one is turned away.

You could qualify for “sliding scale” payment arrangements if you have no health insurance and limited income.

Most insurances are accepted at IA.

If you do not qualify for sliding scale fees, below are the costs per session:

• $125 for a fully licensed therapist
• $100 for a temporarily licensed therapist
• $65 for an intern

How can I make an appointment with Innovative Alternatives?

Arranging a clinic appointment starts with a call to the IA intake coordinators at 713.222.2525. 

18. Interface-Samaritan Counseling Center 

Interface-Samaritan is yet another option for low cost counseling in Houston.  The clinic offers services to both children and adults.

Where is Interface-Samaritan located?

IS has two locations. One in the Galleria, the other in Spring.

• Galleria Clinic  – 4803 San Felipe Street Houston, TX 77056 – 713.626.7990
• Spring Clinic – 6823 Cypresswood Dr. Spring, TX 77379 –

Who is eligible for counseling services?

Services are offered to children, adults, veterans, young professionals, and members of the LGBTQ community.

What services are offered?

Interface Counseling offers the following services:

• Counseling
• Psychiatry
• Suicide Prevention
• Issues with gender identity
• Grief and loss
• Anxiety
• Abuse – physical, emotional, or sexual
• Therapy for veterans
• Marriage and family counseling

What are the costs of Interface-Samaritan?

IA counseling services are accessible to everyone.

Sliding scale fees are offered to individuals who lack income or adequate mental health coverage.

Those with insurance have no worries because most plans are accepted.

How do I make an appointment?

To make an appointment for counseling services at Interface Samaritan, call 832.779.4375.

19. Jewish Family Service

This organization offers a number of different counseling services. They counsel children, teens, adults, and seniors.

There is only one location in Houston. Continue reading to learn more about this location and the services offered at JFS.

What is the address of Jewish Family Service?

JFS is located in the Meyerland area off S. Braeswood and Stella Link.

• Jewish Family Service – 4131 South Braeswood Blvd Houston, TX 77025 – 713.667.9336

Who is eligible for services?

Jewish Family Service offers to counsel to everyone from children, teens, adults, and seniors.

JFS understands that with age comes different sets of problems. Because a teen’s problems differ from a senior’s, each individual is treated differently.

Visit the Counseling Services page to see the unique problems that we all face as we age and learn more about how Jewish Family Service can help you overcome those issues.

What services are offered at JFS?

The clinic can help you in the following areas of your life:

• Anxiety and depression
• Separation and divorce
• Child abuse and family violence
• Bereavement
• Behavior problems
• Financial and job-related issues
• Personal growth
• Pre-marital, marital, and intermarriage problems
• Couples counseling
• Parenting

One unique program offered here is Project Shalom. This FREE program provides those with chronic mental health and cognitive disabilities with a social circle to increase self-confidence, create long-lasting relationships, and decrease isolation.

Some of the activities offered in the Project Shalom program include:

• Music therapy
• Dance instruction
• Day trips
• Arts and crafts
• And much more

In addition, Jewish Family Services offers individual and family counseling is offered. Those in Project Shalom also receive monthly medication management services from a community nurse.

For more information, call JFS at 713.667.9336 and ask let them know you’re interested in the Project Shalom program.

How much do services cost?

JFS is available to anyone regardless of age, race, or religion. No one is turned away.

If you have low income or no insurance, this is not a problem because you are billed based on sliding scale fees.

How do I schedule an appointment with JFS?

Call 713.667.9336 to schedule an appointment.

20. Krist Samaritan Center

KSC  counseling services to children, adults, and seniors.

Services are based on a sliding scale, and they offer 8 low cost counseling clinics in Houston.  See the address of each of those clinics below.

What is the address of Krist Samaritan Center?

The main counseling center is located in Clear Lake although there are 7 other offices throughout the Houston area.

• Clear Lake Office – 16441 Space Center Blvd, Suite C-100, Houston, TX 77058 – 281.480.7554
• Pearland Office – 2504 Almea-Genoa Rd, Pearland, TX 77047 (Jones Memorial United Methodist Church)
• Galveston Office –  2803 53rd Street, Galveston, TX 77551 – (Moody Methodist Church)
• Katy Office – 25722 Kingsland Blvd, Suite 111, Katy, TX 77494 – (Christ Clinic)
• Houston Memorial Drive Office – 13194 Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77075 – (Memorial Drive United Methodist Church)
• Katy Office – 3700 South Mason Road, Katy, TX 77450 – (Living Word Evangelical Lutheran Church)
• Downtown Houston Office – 1303 San Jacinto Houston, TX 77002 – (South Texas College of Law)
• Woodlands Office – 6363 Research Forest The Woodlands, TX 77381 – (Christ Church United Methodist)

Who is eligible for services?

Children, adults, and seniors are all eligible for services.

What services are offered at Samaritan Center?

Here are some of the issues KSC can help you with:

• Abuse – physical, emotional, or sexual
• Addiction recovery
• Aging, death and dying
• Anxiety
• Anger Management
• Panic attacks
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Hopelessness
• Gender identity
• Suicidal thoughts, cutting or self-harm
• PTSD and trauma
• Personality disorders
• Social skills training
• Helping veterans and their families
• LGBTQ
• Immigration issues
• Grief and loss

How much does counseling cost?

Services billed based on a sliding scale for those who are uninsured. KSC is there to help you regardless of insurance or your ability to pay.

Krist Samaritan Center does accept most health insurance plans, including Tricare, Medicaid, and Medicare.

How can I schedule an appointment?

To learn more about Krist Samaritan Center or schedule an appointment at any of their 8 Houston area offices, call 281.480.7554.

21. Legacy Community Health 

Legacy Community Health offers another option for low-cost counseling in Houston.

LCH offers counseling and psychiatric services to both children and adults.

Where are the Legacy Community Health Outpatient Clinics located?

• MapleRidge Clinic – 6550 Mapleridge St Suite 106 Houston, TX 77081 – 713.779.7200
• Southwest Clinic – 6441 High Star Houston, TX 77074 – 832.548.5300
• Baker-Ripley Clinic – 6500 Rookin St, Building B, Suite 200 Houston, TX 77074 – 713.351.7350
• Montrose Clinic – 1415 California St Houston, TX 77006 – 832.548.5100
• Branard Clinic – 401 Branard St, Level 3 Houston, TX 77006 – 713.366.7444
• Bissonnet Clinic – 12667 Bissonnet Houston, TX 77099 – 281.498.6100
• Lyons Clinic – 3811 Lyons Ave Houston, TX 77020 – 832.548.5400
• Santa Clara  Clinic – 5616 Lawndale St Suite A108 Houston, TX 77023 – 713.921.0075
• San Jacinto Clinic – 4301 Garth Rd Houston, TX 77521 – 281.420.8400
• Deer Park Clinic  – 3430 Center St Houston, TX 77536 – 281.628.2040

Who is Eligible for Legacy Community Health?

LCH offers services to everyone regardless of health insurance or income levels. This is a Federally Qualified Health Clinic (FQHC). All FQHC clinics operate on a “sliding scale”.

LCH accepts Medicaid, Medicare, CHIP, and most other health insurance plans. Learn more about insurance plans accepted.

How do I make a Legacy Community Health appointment?

Walk-in appointments are welcome however you are encouraged to contact their appointment line at 832.548.5000 prior to visiting.

What Counseling services does Legacy Community Health offer?

Services to help individuals manage depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, autism, developmental delays, and learning disabilities are provided.

In addition to these services Legacy Community Health social workers provide resource linkage, school advocacy, and legal resources.

How can I make an appointment?

For more information, contact Legacy at 832.548.5000.

22. Montrose Counseling Center

The Monrose Center is the authority on counseling services for the LGBT community here in Houston.

Many of the counseling services offered are geared toward the LGBT community and individuals who are HIV+. Despite this, heterosexual clients are always welcome to services at Montrose Counseling Center.

Where is the Montrose Center located?

The counseling center is located in the Montrose neighborhood between Richmond Avenue and W. Alabama.

• Montrose Center – 401 Branard Street, Houston, TX 77006

Who is eligible for services?

As we stated earlier, the LGBT community is a priority population at Montrose Counseling Center.  Individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender make up most of the clients served. If you are heterosexual, MCC will provide services because everyone is welcome.

What is the cost of services?

No one is turned away at Montrose Counseling Center. Everyone is welcome at the counseling center regardless of sexual preference, gender, lack of income, or insurance.

MCC accepts most insurances, including Medicare and Medicaid.

If you do not have health insurance or lack income, discounted fees may be available to you. Like most clinics on this list, MCC offers “sliding scale” fees.

What services are offered at Montrose Counseling Center?

Montrose Center offers several counseling programs aimed at helping members of the LGBT community. Below are a few of those programs.

Life Counseling

LIFE stands for Living. Insightfully for Empowerment.

This program offers to counsel to individuals, couples, and group counseling.

Counseling tackles so of the following issues:

• Coming out
• Homophobia
• Suicidal thoughts
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Gender identity
• Gender transitioning
• Personality disorder
• Grief
• And more…

Montrose Center Group Therapy

MCC currently offers 3 therapy groups. You will find each and a link to more information below:

• Women Surviving Violence 
• Men Surviving Violence 
• Long-Term Survivors Group for HIV+  Gay Men 

For more information on these groups call 713.529.0037.

Case Management Services at Montrose Center

MCC case managers help their clients connect with a number of services outside of counseling. Some of these services include healthcare, housing, employment, transportation, and legal services.

If any of the following conditions are true you will likely qualify for case management:

• Living with HIV or AIDS
• A survivor of domestic abuse, sexual assault, or a hate crime
• LGBT adult who is 60 or older
• An adult with more than one basic needs it

Specialized HIV/AIDS Case Management

Montrose Center offers case management services specifically for individuals diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. These services include:

• Linkage to primary care, medication, housing, and legal services
• Education and support regarding living HIV/AIDS
• Possible access to PrEP medication

Embody Integrated Care

This program offers individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender help finding mental health and substance abuse services.

How can I make an appointment?

You are welcome to call 713.529.0037 or visit Montrose Center as a walk-in any day Mon- Fri from 8 am to 7 pm.

23. San Jose Clinic

San Jose Clinic offers affordable medical care in Houston to both children and adults. 

Note: San Jose Clinic is open to everyone, however, it was created to address the infant mortality rate in the hispanic community. Today the clinic continues to serve the Houston latino community. 

They offer two clinics which are located in Houston’s Midtown and Rosenberg. 

• Midtown –  2615 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77002 – 713.228.9411
• Rosenberg – 1615 Avenue E, Houston, TX 77471 – 832.945.6711

The following services are offered:

• Counseling
• Psychiatry
• Many more medical services

For more information, you can call them at 713.228.9411 or visit the San Jose Clinic website. 

24. Gideon Counseling Center at HBU

Gideon Counseling is a new resource in southwest Houston for low-cost counseling.

Gideon Counseling offers affordable counseling services to the Houston community. They are committed to providing quality counseling services to all clients, regardless of their faith background. They specialize in Christian Psychology, but all worldviews are respected.

Gideon Counseling is located in southwest Houston at the Houston Baptist University campus. The address is 7731 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074.  You can reach them by phone at 281.649.3431. 

25. St Thomas Counseling

Conclusion 

I cannot guarantee that calling one of the therapists above will solve your problems.  I wish I could, but that’s just not the case. 

That being said, I believe you accomplish more with movement over meditation, simply meaning you need to take action to have a chance at overcoming your problems.

Find a therapist or clinic that interests you, plant the idea in your head that this will work out, and call them for an appointment.  Don’t second guess yourself or hesitate due to “analysis paralysis”; just make your move and see what happens. 

Lastly, if you suffer from suicidal thoughts, you can find help by calling the Harris Center helpline (24 hours a day)  at 713.970.7000. This number is staffed by trained counselors who can help you if you are suffering from suicidal thoughts.  You can also find help by contacting 911 or visiting the Neuro-Psychiatric Center at 1502 Ben Taub Loop if you feel that you are in a crisis. 

I wish you the very best of luck with everything you are going through if you have questions, you can drop them in the comments, and I will follow up with you soon.