Program Eligibility & Process
Eligibility
Basic Requirements
To be considered for assistance, applicants must:
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Live in Arizona
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Be at least 5 years old
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Be seeking care in Maricopa County or Coconino County
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Demonstrate a financial barrier to accessing mental health care
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Be willing to participate in recommended treatment
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Submit any required documentation to support the application
Additional Considerations
Because funding is limited, priority may be given to individuals who:
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Are at risk of interruption in care (therapy, medication, or evaluations)
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Have recently lost insurance or experienced a coverage gap
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Have high out-of-pocket costs that make care unaffordable
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Do not qualify for AHCCCS but still cannot afford services
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Experienced a recent psychiatric urgent care visit
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Experienced a recent psychiatric hospitalization
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Live in rural or underserved areas, including Coconino County
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Are facing multiple barriers to accessing care
The Process
1. Apply or Refer
Individuals can apply directly, or a provider, therapist, or community partner can submit a referral on their behalf. The application includes basic information about financial need, current or requested care, and any barriers to access.
2. Application Review
Our team reviews each application using a structured and equitable process that considers financial need, urgency, and risk of interruption in care. We may follow up if additional information is needed.
3. Decision & Coordination
Applicants are typically notified within 7–14 business days. If approved, we coordinate next steps, which may include working directly with providers to ensure care can continue without disruption.
4. Funding Support Begins
Approved applicants receive short-term financial support for services such as therapy, psychiatric care, medication, or evaluations. Payments are made directly to providers to simplify the process.
5. Ongoing Check-Ins
For some individuals, we may check in during the support period to ensure care remains accessible and stable. Additional support may be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on need and available funding.