A Fort Worth-based organization dedicated to expanding access to mental health care is asking for support through the current North Texas Giving Day campaign. The Telos Project, which provides therapy and psychological assessments across Texas, is one of more than 3,300 nonprofits participating in the event that runs through Sept. 17.
The group aims to raise $18,000 during the campaign. Donations will support the Equal Access to Assessment Fund, which helps individuals who lack insurance or whose coverage does not include necessary services. The Telos Project has also been selected to receive a matching grant from The Morris Foundation, which will match the first $5,000 donated dollar-for-dollar.
Dr. C. Holiday Bean, executive director and founder of The Telos Project, stated that the fund allows the organization to assist people who otherwise could not afford care. She noted that many clients struggle with costs even when they have insurance, as out-of-pocket expenses rise while coverage changes.
Bean said demand for affordable mental health services has increased significantly over the past year due to economic stressors. She explained that job loss, rising housing and grocery costs, and higher bills place additional pressure on families, leading to a greater need for psychological support.
Founded in 2016, The Telos Project offers therapy, play therapy, and specialty programs for children, teens, and adults. The organization accepts most commercial insurance plans as well as Medicaid, Medicare, and Tricare. Bean noted that the nonprofit is sometimes the only provider in Texas willing to accept certain health insurance plans, drawing clients from cities including Odessa, San Antonio, Midland, and Lubbock.
