Access to Care for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

Individuals in need of mental health and substance abuse services have several ways in which they can access needed services:

Smoky Mountain Center Access Line (1-800-849-6127) - Individuals in need of mental health or substance abuse services may call the Smoky Mountain Center Access Line (1-800-849-6127) and receive a telephonic screening to determine the nature of the mental health or substance abuse problem and offer the individual a choice of appropriate treatment providers. Every attempt will be made to schedule an initial appointment with chosen provider. If the provider’s schedule cannot be accessed, the individual will be given the provider’s contact information.

The Balsam Center For Hope and Recovery (1-800-849-6127) – Individuals in need of emergency mental health or substance abuse services may call the SMC Access Line 24 hours per day, 7 days per week and be transferred to the Balsam Center for Hope and Recovery. Individuals will receive an emergency screening and/or a face-to- face assessment, including the first exam for involuntary commitment. Emergency staff will determine the level of need and link the consumer to an appropriate level of care including urgent appointments, crisis stabilization, detox, and psychiatric inpatient services as appropriate.

Private Treatment Provider - Individuals may seek services directly from a local treatment provider of their choice. To receive State funded services, the individual seeking services will need to call the Smoky Mountain Center Access Line for telephonic screening.

Department Of Social Services – Community Clinicians are available in Department of Social Services offices to provide screening and assessment for Work First, Child Protective Services, and other DSS referrals as needed.

Regional Hospitals – Individuals in crisis often go to the local emergency room for help. Emergency services staff work closely with hospital physicians to see that individuals receive needed treatment. Once they are medically stabilized, individuals experiencing a psychiatric or substance abuse crisis may be transferred to the Balsam Center for further evaluation and treatment. Community Clinicians provide consultation services in several local hospitals.