TYLER, Texas (KLTV) – A Tyler nonprofit helps people find mental health providers and supports them throughout their mental health journey.
Samantha Megaw is one of the millions of people struggling to overcome a mental health condition.
“If you don’t make time for your mental health, you’ll be forced to make time for your mental health,” says Samantha Megaw, executive director of SocialWorx Advocacy Group.
Noticing gaps in mental health services, such as waiting lists, as well as cultural and economic needs, Megaw felt the need to expand the free services at SocialWorx Advocacy Group in Tyler.
“I felt like having peer support, someone to guide and navigate the process, would be a huge benefit,” Megaw says. “We will not only help you find a mental health provider, but we will be with you for a year to go through the entire process of your mental health journey together.”
SocialWorx Advocacy Group offers free mental health navigation services to assist clients with their insurance and financial needs and ensure they find the right provider. These can help you find resources to help pay your health care provider if you don’t have insurance or need additional assistance. The organization aims to address gaps in mental health services, especially for diverse communities.
“We are focusing on specific groups that we have identified as having a lot of stigma within the community,” Megaw says. “We try to help break down that stigma by attending community events and showing that we are there and showing that it is okay to deal with mental health. It’s okay to get help.”
We encourage others to seek help by providing free resources like finding the best counselor or therapist for you and your budget.
“It’s hard. It’s really hard for people to find the help they need,” said Angie Quintanilla, an intern with the Social Works Advocacy Group. “I want to help these people find their voice and reach out for help.”
The organization offers free mental health support every Wednesday from 3pm to 7pm, walk-in or online. We plan to expand our services and increase community awareness to better support mental health needs.
Click here to learn more about SocialWorx Advocacy Group and mental health resources.
Copyright 2024 KLTV. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited.
