Here's what we found for you
- Aging out of foster care
For young people from 16 to 21 in Stark County, independent living services are available during the transition out of foster care. Specialists can help with the coordination of services to help facilitate a happy and healthy journey toward adulthood. Learn more about the social and support services available to teens and young adults in the Stark County foster system.
- Traumatic event resources
Traumatic events can have long-lasting and profound impacts on children and young adults. The emotional and behavioral repercussions can present right away or even years later. Recognizing the signs early can help a family cope in the aftermath of a tragedy.
- Armed services & health careThose who have served or are currently serving in the military deserve access to high-quality health care and preventive services. While active duty military enjoy comprehensive health care benefits, many veterans still need ongoing medical care for injuries, illnesses or emotional trauma related to military service.
- Immediate assistance
If you or someone you know is in crisis, it is important to seek help immediately. No matter if you’re struggling with depression, substance use, relationship problems or family turmoil, free and confidential support is available. You are not alone and talking to someone could help save a life.
- Trauma: youth & teens
Most people will experience a traumatic event at some point in their lives. Whether it is a natural disaster, exposure to violence or abuse, or the death of a loved one, a person’s ability to cope with these experiences can have a lasting effect. When a teen experiences trauma, they may respond differently than a younger child or an adult. Find local resources to help support young people who have gone through trauma and their traumatic stress in Stark County.
- Coping with abuse & neglectEach child whose life is affected by abuse or neglect will react differently to the trauma. There is no right or wrong response to childhood abuse, but there are many local resources available to help children manage the effects.
- Important phone numbers & textlineWhether you are struggling with substance use, domestic or gang violence or negative peer influence, free and confidential support is available 24 hours a day. It’s important to know you’re not alone and the right treatment could be just a conversation away.
- Suicide warning signs
To raise awareness and help save the lives of those thinking about suicide, it is important to understand and recognize the warning signs. Suicide is preventable, and we all play an important role. Learn how to identify the signs, start a dialogue and take action.
- Trauma: young adults
When a young person’s safety and well-being is threatened, it can have negative effects for a lifetime. It’s often more challenging for a young adult to cope with such events because they’re also dealing with other significant challenges, including personal relationships and living independently for the first time. Whether sudden or long-lasting, these experiences can leave a young person confused, angry or anxious. Find local resources to support these emerging adults through traumatic events.
- Drugs & alcoholYoung people may turn to alcohol and drugs as a way to numb emotional pain from personal trauma or as result of peer influence. Youth substance use is a key contributor to problems at school, poor social relationships, motor vehicle accidents and mental health issues. With professional treatment, recovery is possible.
- Introducing StarkHelpCentral.comStarkHelpCentral.com provides information and support to youth, young adults and engaged members of our community.
- Family & community-based treatment
Whether you are a young person looking for help or someone who is concerned about a young person, there are local organizations that can provide assistance for mental health and substance use. Taking support beyond a traditional office setting can be beneficial for some people.
Community-based treatment allows families to access high-quality services for mental health and substance use with few barriers. Family-based treatment allows those seeking help to get treatment safely in their community alongside their families.
- How to be an advocate for youth in your Stark County communityLearn how you can find and share resources to be an advocate for youth in your Stark County community.
- 2-1-1 Helpline Transitions Resources to StarkHelpCentral.com
In 2023, 2-1-1, Stark County’s helpline, transitioned to StarkHelpCentral.com.
Closing the Stark County information system and online database—that was run by United Way of Greater Stark County—and moving resources to StarkHelpCentral.com helps streamline the process for community members looking for resources and information.
StarkHelpCentral.com can help you find community resources available to you and your family. The searchable community resource website is supported by Stark County Mental Health & Addiction Recovery (StarkMHAR),
- Signs of child abuse & neglectAbuse and neglect can have emotional, mental and physical effects long into a child’s future. Signs like bruises, scrapes, cuts and broken bones are common with physical abuse, while emotional abuse typically results in a change of the child’s actions and behaviors. Learn more about ways to identify and report child abuse and neglect.
- Medical health providers
If you are unsure of where to go for medical issues or don’t have a primary care physician, there are hospitals, medical centers, and urgent care facilities throughout Stark County. They can help you stay in good health, address any concerns or illnesses, or tend to more immediate needs and minor injuries. Affordable resources for medical and mental health services are available near you.
- Hotline to report abuse or neglectIf you suspect childhood abuse or neglect, don’t wait to reach out. When it comes to children in crisis, every minute can be crucial in preventing an episode of abuse. Whether you have a concern about mental, emotional or physical cruelty, call the hotline today.
- Asking for helpIt is important for young people to understand their strengths and weaknesses, so they can identify when they need support. If a student struggles to read in class, they may want to ask for their tests to be read out loud. Many educational and social services are available in our local schools, but to be effective, kids need to raise their voices and ask for help.
- Human trafficking survivorsA survivor of human trafficking will face a long and complex journey to recovery. They often need specialized clinical treatment, as well as trauma-informed mental and emotional care. Some may also need prenatal care or childcare support. Find local resources to support these survivors, keep them safe and reaffirm their worth.
- Abuse & neglect: early childhood
Although they may not understand or be able to express what’s happened, infants can still be deeply affected by abuse and neglect. This early trauma can hinder a child’s physical, mental and emotional development, compromising their sense of safety and security. To help combat the negative impacts of early childhood abuse, it is important that babies and small children get the early intervention and support they need. Find local child protective services dedicated to survivors of abuse and neglect.
- Drug & alcohol rehabilitation servicesAddiction is a complex disease, not a character flaw. If someone you know is struggling, learn about Stark County rehabilitation services.
- Opiate Resources
In recent years, heroin use has been on the rise across the nation, throughout Ohio and in Stark County. According to Stark County Mental Health & Addiction Recovery (StarkMHAR), 1,444 members of our community were treated for opiate use in 2016 – nearly six times the number treated 10 years earlier. Find resources and programs to help raise awareness, educate the community and combat this growing epidemic.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, - Emotional support for children in foster care
Children in the Stark County foster care system have often experienced trauma, neglect or abuse sometime in their young lives. By supporting the unique needs of this vulnerable population, educators, foster families and social workers can help offset the effects of these negative experiences.
Professional mental health providers in our community offer many different treatment options, so no matter a child’s situation or individual emotional needs, help is available. Find family, individual and faith-based resources to help improve the resiliency and well-being of children in foster care.
- The Stark County Legal SystemFind the right court or local government program for your specific legal needs. Learn about the Stark County legal system.
- Relationship issues
While there’s no single reason for teen suicide, the emotional pain associated with a breakup can be so severe that young people turn to self-harm. And these issues aren’t exclusive to romantic relationships. Problems with parents and friends can cause just as much stress and pain for a young person.
If you or someone you know is struggling to cope with a difficult relationship, find local counseling and support resources. You are not alone.
- 6 Ways to Help a Loved One Through Addiction
Addiction leaves countless individuals and their loved ones reeling from its devastating impact. As a disease, addiction is frequently misunderstood and stigmatized. Beyond the stereotypical images of substance use, addiction can have behavioral and psychological effects.
If you’re helping someone with addiction issues, the first thing is to know there is always hope and a way forward.
Understanding Addiction as a DiseaseTo provide meaningful help to a loved one struggling with addiction,
- School Safety
Stark County’s goal is always to keep all students safe – physically, socially and emotionally. Inside and outside of the classroom, many resources are in place to support our local students. From guidance counselors and mental health specialists to school resource officers and ongoing building improvements, Stark County has taken many steps to improve the safety at our local schools.
If you or someone you know has a concern about your safety while in school,
- CARE Teams
School can present many challenges for students. Whether they are struggling in class, experiencing issues in the home or having a hard time socially, CARE Teams are available to help. Each CARE team is different, but they are typically made up of school guidance counselors, administrators, teachers, clinical staff, family support specialists and mental health professionals. With different skills and backgrounds at the table, each member of the CARE Team contributes a unique perspective to address student issues with wraparound resources.
- Stark County CARE Teams cover basic needs so students can focus on academicsTogether, these professionals brainstorm ideas for ways to support children so they can do their best while they’re at school.
- Self-advocacy references & resourcesBeyond everyday interactions with family and friends, young people are able to self-advocate and use their personal experiences as a springboard for change. For young people who are passionate about raising their voices and telling their stories, they may need help determining the best place to start.
- March 1st is Self Injury Awareness Day
The UK organization LifeSIGNS started dedicating March 1st as Self Injury Awareness Day in 2002. Now, 20 years later, it is a national awareness day for many countries, including the U.S. Self-injury goes by other names, including self-harm and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), and encompasses a large range of actions that one takes to cope with extreme emotion, release tension from these emotions, or take back a perceived loss of control. While teens tend to be the most likely to self-injure,
- Importance of Safe Places and Caring Relationships for Our LGBTQ+ Young People
In honor of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) Pride Month, let us take a moment to learn more about what we can do in our personal and professional lives to create safe spaces and caring relationships for our LGBTQ youth (and adults).
Far too many LGBTQ+ youth do not feel safe and accepted or feel a sense of pride in themselves. In fact, LGBTQ+ youth experience bullying, parental rejection, depression, and thoughts of suicide at significantly higher rates then their heterosexual peers.
- Becoming resilient is a daily practiceResiliency daily practices and tips to help you build a strong foundation of character. Face life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.
- Your Guide to Pride: 2022 Ohio Pride Events
Happy Pride Month, Ohioans! Nowadays, Pride celebrations extend beyond the month of June and into the summer, so everyone has a chance to celebrate. If you’re looking for Pride events near you throughout Ohio, you’ve come to the right place.
No matter how you identify or if you’re an ally, there’s a Pride parade, festival or celebration near you. Be sure to catch a live performance, support local vendors who attend, volunteer for a committee,
The Gentle Shepherd Counseling Center
Licensed counselors treating and diagnosing mental health conditions.
North Canton, OH 44720
Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health: Alliance
Mental and behavioral health services for Alliance children and families.
Suite G
Alliance, OH 44601
Heartland Behavioral Healthcare
Patient and family outreach for those affected by mental illness.
Family Care Counseling Center
A comprehensive mental health center for Stark County and surrounding areas.
#103
North Canton, OH 44720
Building Blocks Counseling Center
Mental health and substance use prevention, treatment and recovery services.
Suite 1
North Canton, OH 44720
Father Matthew Herttna Counseling Center
Mental health counseling and referrals available at the Walsh University campus.
North Canton, OH 44720
Summit Psychological Associates: Downtown Canton
Comprehensive mental health and substance use services for prevention, treatment and recovery.
Canton, OH 44703 Learn more
Summa Health Addiction Medicine Intensive Outpatient Program
Comprehensive evaluations and referrals for individuals with mental health and substance use problems.
Suite 5
Canton, OH 44718
Make-A-Way Drop-In Center
Social, recreational and educational opportunities for people with mental illnesses and developmental disabilities.
Massillon, OH 44648
Summit Psychological Associates: North Canton
Comprehensive mental health and substance use services for prevention, treatment and recovery.
Suite 701
Canton, OH 44718
Kessler Psychological Services
Services for grief, trauma, LGBTQ+ support, stress management and general mental health.
Hartville, OH 44632
Louis Stokes Canton VA Outpatient Clinic
A multi-specialty clinic that provides a range of health care and mental health services to veterans.
Canton, OH 44702
American Red Cross: Veterans
Connects veterans to community resources for mental health counseling, emergency assistance and job services.
Canton, OH 44707
Ohio MENTOR & IFCS
Foster care and mental health services for young people with emotional, behavioral and other complex challenges.
Suite C & D
Canton, OH 44718
CommQuest Canton
Addiction and mental health counseling, psychiatric services, case management, education and employment services, detox, hot meals, social center
DRA Dual Recovery Anonymous
Support for individuals and families impacted by both mental illness and substance use. Hosted by NAMI Stark County.
Canton, OH 44707
Stark County Vet Center
Offers various resources to Stark County veterans, including mental health services and job referrals when available.
Suite C
Canton, OH 44702
Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health
Services to reduce risk factors and increase resiliency:
- Case management
- Diagnostic mental health assessments
- Medication management
Canton, OH 44718
NAMI Stark County Friday Peer Support Group (Adults with Mental Illness)
Mental illness can be extremely isolating and it’s not uncommon to lose friends along the way. This is a chance to meet new people. Support Groups are free to attend and no registration is required.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/386459766
Meeting ID: 386 459 766
NAMI Stark County Tuesday Peer Support Group (Adults with Mental Illness)
Mental illness can be extremely isolating and it’s not uncommon to lose friends along the way. This is a chance to meet new people. Support Groups are free to attend and no registration is required.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/97629915727
Meeting ID: 976 2991 5727
H.O.P.E. Program
Mental health professionals who help individuals complete Intensive Supervision Probation (ISP), reach stabilization and decrease risks for re-offending.
Canton, OH 44702
Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health: Trauma
Trauma and grief-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and SITCAP services to reduce risk and increase childhood resiliency:
- Case management
- Diagnostic mental health assessments
- Medication management
Canton, OH 44718
Crisis Intervention Team Officers (CIT)
Officers trained in proven and effective communication techniques to help reduce violence and ensure successful intervention of mental health and substance use situations. Please ask for a CIT officer when calling.
AVO Behavioral Health & Recovery
At AVO Behavioral Health & Recovery, they treat the whole person struggling with addiction and mental health with MAT, IOP, individual and group counseling. They will offer cognitive behavioral therapy, incorporating things such as art and yoga therapy.
Canton, OH 44718
COMPASS Rape Crisis
24/7 Confidential Hotline: 330-452-1111
Mental health, counseling, and case management services for all survivors of rape and sexual assault
Confidential Hotline
Hospital Advocacy
Justice System Advocacy
Canton, OH 44707
NAMI Stark County Sunday Night Support Group (Peers and Family Members)
Mental illness can be extremely isolating and it’s not uncommon to lose friends along the way. This is a chance to meet new people. Support Groups are free to attend and no registration is required.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/798097665
Meeting ID: 798 097 665
Stark County Homeless Hotline
24/7 Hotline: 330-452-4363
For referrals to free community shelters and other local housing programs.
Please allow enough phone time for specialists to conduct an initial assessment review to find information and programs that work best for your needs.
The homeless hotline number is a part of Stark County Mental Health & Addiction Recovery.
ASCEND
Formerly Foundations
Promoting recovery through peer support, education, advocacy and networking.
Peer ran Respite Unit is based on short-term, in-house stay for those struggling with mental health and addiction recovery issues.
Free(no insurance necessary or accepted)
Also offers classes in person or via zoom with a possible $45.00 Walmart card stipend for attending 20 classes.
Additional locations:
227 Third St. SE,
Suite 200
Canton, OH 44702