You’re not alone: New Miami-Dade resource guide connects families to children’s mental health support

When a child is struggling emotionally, knowing where to turn can feel overwhelming. Whether your child is experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, behavioral challenges or simply needs extra support, help is available and you don’t have to navigate the journey alone.

The Miami-Dade Mayor’s Blue Ribbon Children’s Commission Children’s Mental Health Resource Guide was created to make it easier for families to find trusted mental health services and supports for children and youth throughout Miami-Dade County.

“Mental health is just as important as physical health, especially during childhood,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. “No family should ever feel alone when seeking help for a child. This guide is designed to make finding support easier, reduce stigma, and ensure every child and family has access to the care they need to thrive.”

The Mayor’s Blue Ribbon Children’s Commission is supported by the Miami-Dade County Community Services Department (CSD), which provides leadership, coordination and administrative support to help advance the Commission’s mission. Working alongside healthcare providers, educators, nonprofit organizations, and other community partners, CSD helps transform the Commission’s recommendations into meaningful initiatives that strengthen systems of care, improve collaboration and expand access to services that support the health and well-being of children and families across Miami-Dade County.

Designed for parents, caregivers, educators, healthcare providers, and other trusted adults, the guide connects families with free and low-cost mental health resources, crisis services, counseling providers, and specialized programs organized by age group. It also includes important crisis information and additional community resources to help families find the right support when they need it most.

“Every child deserves the opportunity to grow up feeling safe, supported, and connected,” said Miami-Dade County Community Services Department Director, Cathy Burgos. “Through the Mayor’s Blue Ribbon Children’s Commission and the leadership of its Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Special Committee, we’re helping turn research into action by strengthening the partnerships that support children and families. This Resource Guide is more than a directory—it’s a pathway to hope, helping families find the right support while giving providers the tools to connect children with services as early as possible. Together, we can lessen the impact of adversity, build resilience and ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.”

Developed through the Mayor's Blue Ribbon Children’s Commission, the guide reflects Miami-Dade County’s commitment to improving access to care, supporting early intervention, and helping every child grow up healthy, resilient, and connected to the resources they need to succeed. The guide also reflects the work of the Commission’s ACEs Special Committee, whose efforts continue to raise awareness about the long-term impact of childhood adversity and promote trauma-informed approaches that foster resilience, healing and lifelong well-being.

If you have concerns about your child’s emotional or mental well-being, don’t wait to seek support. Early help can make a lifelong difference.

Families, caregivers, educators, healthcare providers and community organizations are encouraged to explore the guide and use it to connect children and youth with trusted mental health resources throughout Miami-Dade County.

For additional guidance and community mental health resources, please call 211 or 305-358-HELP (4357).

If your child is experiencing a mental health crisis or may be in immediate danger of harming themselves or others, call or text 988 or contact Miami’s 24-hour Crisis Hotline at 800-HELP-YOU (800-435-7968).