Access to mental health providers is a major issue in Jefferson County. According to Mercy Hospital Jefferson FY 2025 Needs Assessment, the ratio of residents to mental health providers is 960:1. By comparison, the ratio in Missouri as a whole is 410:1 and the ratio in the US as a whole is 230:1.
Additionally, according to the Jefferson County Community Mental Health Fund Board’s Mental & Behavioral Health Assessments, nearly all school staff questioned (98%) cited the need for psychiatrists and psychologists/therapists in or near the community to support students with moderate to severe behavioral health needs, yet 97% reported these services as limited or unavailable. Other highly needed but under-available services included those addressing youth trauma, crisis response, and basic needs support for families, with limited/no availability reported by two-thirds of staff.
Provident has expanded our services in the area to serve more older adults and youth, thanks to the Jefferson Foundation and the Jefferson County Community Mental Health Fund Board. We offer counseling for all ages, counseling for older adults, TeleHope for older adults, TeleHelp for caregiver support, and BHIS services in the Grandview School District.