Spotlight on Service: Pasadena Mental Health Center

At Pasadena Presbyterian Church, we aim to be a "sacred space for the city," and for that reason, we desire to learn about opportunities for service in Pasadena and to support and celebrate what non-profits, ministries, and charities are doing right in our midst.

And so. . . this week we honor the Pasadena Mental Health Center!

The Pasadena Mental Health Center has been a part of our local community for many years, offering services to individuals and families in Pasadena since 1965. Their mission is to "provide affordable, accessible, and appropriate mental health services for individuals, families, and children in the diverse Pasadena area and surrounding communities who have no other resources for such care."

The Pasadena Mental Health Center offers services for low-income individuals and families who are uninsured and do not qualify for Medi-Cal. Most individuals and families who receive services are uninsured or under-insured, and for 70% of these individuals and families, annual income is below $19,000. More than 1000 people receive counseling services every year.

In partnership with the Pasadena Police Department, the Pasadena Mental Health Center provides the Youth Accountability Program. This program works with juveniles who have committed a minor first criminal offense. Individual and family therapy is offered along with parenting classes.

The Pasadena Mental Health Center has also partnered with schools in the Pasadena Unified School District to provide counseling to students who otherwise would not be eligible for services.

They have also initiated the United to Nurture Individuals Program, focusing on youth in Pasadena and Altadena who are at risk to join gangs. The mission of the program is to help vulnerable children and adolescents so that they might make healthy, positive life choices and avoid gang activity.

There are many ways to help the Pasadena Mental Health Center. Members of the community can volunteer, make a financial contribution, or donate goods and services. We can also advocate for this important non-profit organization and let others know about the services they provide.

We are grateful for all that the Pasadena Mental Health Center is doing in our city. Thank you!