Project No Labels Debuts Affordable Mental Heathcare in Jan. 2020

If you scroll through Facebook posts, depression, lack of self-worth, and mental health issues are a bridge linking all ages and gender identities, particularly in the LGBTQ+ community. You will also notice that people want to get help, but find the insurance copays or for those without coverage, the outright payment for therapy, is cost-prohibitive. Many try to deal with their pain without support, sometimes self-medicating with drugs, alcohol, food, and sex, which could result in dire consequences.

Project No Labels, the 501c3 nonprofit that unites the Tampa Bay LGBTQ+ community with its allies through volunteerism and activism, paid close attention to these posts and memes. In 2020, it will make mental health care obtainable for members of the Tampa Bay and St. Petersburg communities.

“For the past four years, Project No Labels has been involved in different spheres of social issues. People have always felt comfortable to talk to us about the pressing issues around the community. One issue that really stuck out to us is Mental Health Care. It seems like people needed hope, inspiration, and better coping mechanisms,” explained founder/CEO, Claire Elisan. “For too long, mental health therapy has been out of reach or out of mind for many who truly needed it. This program is an affordable opportunity for personal growth.”

From January 6 to April 28, 2020, Project No Labels will assist in opening the gates to affordable therapy sessions to the local communities.

The resulting pilot program “Dear Self You Are Worth It” is in collaboration with Dr. Katie Schubert, a licensed Mental Health Counselor, a Board Certified Sex Therapist in the State of Florida, and a Nationally Certified Counselor. Steph Ostrow, a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Student Intern, will provide the therapy, supervised by the doctor.

The program was created to bridge the existing gap between the need for mental health care and the financial burden that limits its access.

“It is Project No Labels’ effort to make mental health care attainable. Each session will cost $30 per hour; however, the cost to the community is only $20 per hour,” said Claire. “Our organization is picking up the additional $10. We are also looking to do a voucher program for anyone who needs the service but can’t afford the $20. To some, it's either gas in the tank or food on the family’s table versus $20 for their mental health. Unfortunately, they’re forced to sacrifice their psychological well-being.

“We are currently looking for Sponsorship Partners for this program for both the cost to Project No Labels as well as the voucher program to cover the entire cost for anyone who can’t afford it but is in need.”

The affordable spots are limited, with acceptance on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Dr. Schubert said, “This program is incredibly important. Mental health care is expensive, and a lot of people don’t have health insurance policies to cover sessions. Our community is suffering from high rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. This is a great opportunity to see an expert and find happiness and peace in your life.”

For more information on this event, please visit projectnolables.org, or contact directly at (813) 438-3537 or via email at projectnolabels@gmail.com.