Frequently asked questions.

We serve adults (and in some programs, adolescents) in North Carolina who have behavioral health needs that meet the medical-necessity criteria under NC Medicaid. Each service has its own eligibility criteria; our intake team will walk you through it and confirm eligibility before services begin.

Our services are primarily funded through NC Medicaid and our LME-MCO partners. If you don't currently have Medicaid, we can point you toward resources — including NC Medicaid application assistance through your county Department of Social Services.

You can self-refer, or be referred by a family member, primary care provider, hospital, LME-MCO care coordinator, or community partner. Start by contacting us through the Contact page or emailing referrals@empoweringmindsnc.org. Please do not send Protected Health Information through unsecured email — we'll initiate a secure process after first contact.

Most referrals move from first contact to first service within a few weeks, depending on Medicaid eligibility, LME-MCO authorization, and completion of the Comprehensive Clinical Assessment. Our intake team keeps you updated at every step.

A CCA is a detailed clinical evaluation by a licensed clinician that establishes diagnoses, identifies functional needs, and documents medical necessity for behavioral health services. It's required by NC Medicaid before most services can begin.

We believe in meeting people where they are — literally. Services are delivered in our office, in clients' homes, in community settings, at work sites, and anywhere else that supports a client's goals. Some services (like group-based PSR) include office-based programming.

We primarily serve Wake, Granville, Franklin, and surrounding counties in central North Carolina. Service area can vary by specific program; our intake team will confirm whether we cover your area.

Yes. We are fully compliant with the HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules. Your Protected Health Information is stored in an encrypted electronic health record, accessed only by authorized staff, and shared with others only as permitted by law or with your authorization. See our Notice of Privacy Practices for full details.

Our core services are community-based recovery, skill-building, peer support, and case management. We coordinate closely with therapy and psychiatry providers in our network — we do not duplicate those services. If you need therapy or medication management, our team will help you connect with an appropriate provider.

If you or someone you're with is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. For mental health crisis support, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You may also contact the crisis line of your LME-MCO. Empowering Minds is not a crisis or emergency service provider.

We welcome partnerships with employers, faith communities, schools, social service agencies, and others. Reach out through our Contact page and tell us what you have in mind.

Very likely, yes. Visit our Careers page for current openings, or submit a general application if you don't see a matching role.