When you or someone you love is struggling, knowing where to turn makes it easier to reach out. But for many families, especially newcomers, the system can feel confusing. Who do you call? Is it free? Can you get help in your language?

This guide lists free and low-cost mental health support for families in Alberta, from 24/7 helplines to ongoing counselling, and tips for finding the right fit.

If you need help right now

• Emergency or immediate danger: call 911
• In crisis or thinking about suicide: call or text 988 (Suicide Crisis Helpline, 24/7)
• Alberta Mental Health Help Line: 1-877-303-2642 (24/7)
• Distress Line, Edmonton: 780-482-4357 (24/7)
• Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868 (24/7)
• Family Violence Info Line: 310-1818 (24/7, many languages)
• Addiction Helpline: 1-866-332-2322 (24/7)
• Hope for Wellness Help Line for Indigenous peoples: 1-855-242-3310 (24/7)

How to get ongoing support

1. Call 811 Health Link

A registered nurse can give advice and connect you with Addiction and Mental Health services near you.

2. See your family doctor or a walk-in clinic

Doctors can assess, treat and refer you to counselling or specialists. Do not have a family doctor yet? Read our guide to finding a family doctor in Canada.

3. Check your workplace or school

Many employers offer an Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) with free, confidential counselling for you and your family. Colleges and universities offer free counselling to students.

4. Look for sliding-scale counselling

Some community agencies and training clinics offer counselling at reduced cost based on income. Call or text 211, or visit ab.211.ca, to find options near you.

5. Ask about cultural fit

It is okay to ask for a counsellor who understands your culture, background or language, or to bring an interpreter.

Questions to ask a counsellor

• Are you registered or licensed, and with which professional body?
• Do you have experience working with newcomer families or people from my culture?
• What are your fees, and do you offer a sliding scale?
• Is my insurance or workplace plan accepted?
• Do you offer online or evening sessions?

Community support matters too

Professional care and community support work best together. Families Arising offers peer support for mothers through Mom Youniversity and Moms Connect, community for fathers through Dad Youniversity, and family programs that help parents feel less alone. We offer education and community support, not crisis or clinical care.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I get free mental health help in Alberta?

Call the Alberta Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2642 (24/7) or 811 Health Link, which can connect you to Addiction and Mental Health services. In a crisis, call or text 988. You can also call 211 to find community services near you.

Is there a 24/7 crisis line in Edmonton?

Yes. The Distress Line in Edmonton is available 24/7 at 780-482-4357. Anyone in Canada can also call or text 988, the Suicide Crisis Helpline.

How can I find low-cost counselling?

Check whether your employer or school offers free counselling through an Employee and Family Assistance Program, ask your family doctor for a referral, and call 211 to find community agencies with sliding-scale fees.

Can I get mental health support in my own language?

Many helplines and services offer interpreters. It is okay to ask for an interpreter, or for a counsellor who understands your culture or language.

Related reading: Caring for your emotional wellbeing · Supporting your child’s mental health

Phone numbers checked November 2026. Services can change, so please confirm with the provider.

Families Arising Resource Centre Edmonton is a registered non-profit that supports Black, immigrant, newcomer and multicultural families through programs for mothers, fathers, children and teens. Découvrez nos programmes or browse our free resources.