UF Students Provide Free Therapy Services to Address Gainesville’s Mental Health Needs

A program at the University of Florida is making a big difference for people in Alachua County who can’t afford mental health care. The initiative, called Free Therapy Night, is run by student volunteers from the College of Public Health and Health Professions. It’s unique in the country, as it offers free telehealth counseling to those in need.

Dakota Leget, a co-director and doctoral student in clinical and health psychology, shared, “Access to free mental health services can be a lifeline for individuals facing tough times. It’s a way to connect them with long-term support.”

Florida has a high rate of mental health issues, with many residents struggling to find affordable care due to lack of insurance or high co-pays. In 2024, over 200 appointments were held with the help of 43 student volunteers supervised by faculty members. New patients meet with a coordinator first to assess their needs, followed by five additional sessions.

This initiative is one of three student-led clinics at the university. The OT Equal Access Clinic and the PT Equal Access Clinic also provide no-cost services, offering occupational and physical therapy to the uninsured.

Shar Aghabeigi, another co-director and doctoral student, finds motivation in seeing patient dedication. Students in the program not only treat mental health conditions but also teach coping strategies that can benefit patients long after their sessions end.

Hannah Johnson, a coordinator, emphasized the initiative’s importance: “We’re broadening access to mental health care for those who can’t afford it. Everyone deserves mental health support, not just the privileged.”

As mental health continues to be a pressing issue, programs like Free Therapy Night highlight the increasing demand for accessible care. The focus on mental wellness is critical—especially in a year where a survey by the National Institute of Mental Health found that nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults live with a mental illness. Free services like this are essential for bridging gaps in care and fostering healthier communities.

For more insights into mental health initiatives, explore the National Institute of Mental Health for additional data and resources.

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