Mental health 4 min read

Low-cost mental health care in Dallas County - where to start

Cost keeps many people from starting care. Two Dallas County organizations describe sliding fees or fee waivers. Here is what their own pages say.

By the Exsura Team  ·  October 17, 2026

Metrocare

Metrocare says it “helps Dallas County residents access compassionate mental health services, regardless of their ability to pay.” Its services cover adults, and also children and teens.

  • Insurance accepted: Medicaid, Medicare, and CHIP for eligible children and teens. It also lists some private insurance plans, which you should confirm with Metrocare.
  • No insurance: self-pay is offered “based on a sliding fee scale.” Uninsured people may get reduced-cost or no-cost care after a financial assessment, but free care is not guaranteed.
  • Referral: “You do not need a referral to get started.”
  • How to start: contact Metrocare directly by phone or through its Connect Center Hub. Its page lists more than one number, so use the current number on the Metrocare page linked below.

NTBHA (North Texas Behavioral Health Authority)

Dallas County Health and Human Services describes NTBHA as a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic that helps connect individuals with mental health or substance use providers. It serves children and adults 3 and older.

The county page says NTBHA “will reduce or waive fees for those experiencing financial hardship.” NTBHA’s website is ntbha.org. Metrocare lists an NTBHA crisis hotline at (866) 260-8000.

What these pages do not promise

Metrocare says free care is not guaranteed and depends on a financial assessment. The Dallas County page does not list a phone number for NTBHA, so use its website or the crisis number above. Fees, eligibility and phone numbers can change, so confirm when you call.

If you need help right now

If you are in crisis, call or text 988 any time. If someone is in immediate physical danger, such as a suicide attempt in progress or a suspected overdose, call 911. See 988 vs 911: when to call which and our crisis hotlines page. For a wider directory, see free mental health resources in DFW.

If money stress is part of what you are carrying, the City of Dallas offers free coaching. See how the Financial Empowerment Center works.

Common questions

Do I need a referral to see Metrocare?

No. Metrocare says you do not need a referral to get started. You can contact it directly by phone or through its Connect Center Hub.

Can I get care without insurance?

Metrocare offers self-pay on a sliding fee scale, and uninsured people may get reduced-cost or no-cost care after a financial assessment. Free care is not guaranteed.

What is NTBHA?

Dallas County describes NTBHA as a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic that connects people with mental health or substance use providers, for children and adults 3 and older, and says it will reduce or waive fees for those in financial hardship.

Sources

Sources last checked October 17, 2026. This article is general education, not financial, legal or medical advice. Rules, fees and programs change, so confirm details with the organization before you act.

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