Some youth in Oklahoma are abandoned to state custody after their parents or caregivers cannot get them the right mental or behavioral health care services. Read our previous reporting on the subject here.
Families can get trapped in a cycle of not knowing where to turn or face denials and waitlists for services. Here are some state agencies and services in Oklahoma that offer support and resource navigation.
Mental health
- 988: This statewide mental health crisis hotline connects people directly to mental health professionals.
- Community behavioral health clinics: The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services maintains a list of clinics that provide help for mental health and substance use disorders.
- Mental Health Association Oklahoma: This statewide advocacy organization has a guide for parents on navigating a child’s mental health needs.
- Children and Youth Services: This state team under the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health helps find resources for youth with substance use and mental health needs.
Developmental disabilities
- Oklahoma Family Network: This statewide organization helps parents navigate resources for kids with behavioral health needs or disabilities.
- J.D. McCarty Center: The center offers services for people with developmental disabilities from birth until age 21 including screenings, therapy and medical care.
- Developmental Disability Services: This division in Oklahoma Human Services coordinates waivers and other services for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Basic needs
- 211: This statewide resource hotline connects people to possible resources for housing, food, employment and other resources.
- Child Guidance Program: This program under the State Health Department provides services including developmental assessments and help addressing behavioral health needs.
