Youth access to therapy has never been easier in Colorado, thanks to I Matter.
Taking care of our mental health is something anyone can start at any age, and for Colorado’s youth, it’s never been easier to get started. Getting help for mental health can be tough for young people because of things like location and cost.
According to the 2023 Healthy Kids Colorado Survey, 26% of youth reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in the past year. This statistic shows a significant decrease from 40% in 2021, which is great news for Colorado, and shows that we are moving in a positive direction in addressing mental health needs of our youth population.
But there's good news! I Matter makes it easier for Colorado’s youth to get the support they need.
I Matter was created in 2021 by the state of Colorado and offers up to six FREE therapy sessions with a licensed therapist. It’s free for anyone 18 or younger (or 21 and younger if receiving special education services). With I Matter, cost is not a barrier, and you don't need insurance or to prove legal status to join. I Matter provides services in English and Spanish.
Best of all, signing up is easy!
- Youth 12 to 18 years old can simply complete the 10-minute online survey at IMatterColorado.org or YoImportoColorado.org on their own.
- For youth under 12, parent or guardian consent is required, and parents or guardians can complete the survey for or with their child.
- Youth and/or their parent or guardian can choose from a list of therapists, decide if they want in-person or online sessions, and review short profiles about each therapist to find the right one.
For more details on the signup process, check out this visual guide.
Signing up for therapy has never been easier. If you or a young person you know is having a hard time with their mental health, I Matter can help. VisitIMatterColorado.orgto learn moreabout free therapy and to get started today
About the I Matter Outreach Campaign
In a historic response to the growing youth mental health crisis, the Colorado Department of Human Services, Office of Behavioral Health (OBH) and partners launched the I Matter program that provides up to six free counseling sessions for Coloradans ages 18 and younger. Colorado House Bill 21-1258 established I Matter in 2021 to provide access to mental health and substance use disorder services for youth, and to address needs that may have resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic. I Matter is open to youth 18 years of age or younger, or 21 years of age or younger if receiving special education services.
Informed by youth feedback, the campaign aims to reach all Colorado teens and particularly youth of color and LGBTQIA+ youth. Outreach strategies include digital ads on platforms such as TikTok and Snapchat and on-the-ground outreach to schools and youth organizations. Anyone can order campaign materials, including posters and rack cards, for free here.
Providers interested in participating in the program can email providers@imattercolorado.org.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs help dealing with one, call 1-844-493-TALK (8255) or text TALK to 38255 to speak to a trained professional. Learn more at coloradocrisisservices.org.
