A new research initiative by Dr. Chakema Carmack, Ph.D., and Dr. Damien Kelly, Ed.D., at the University of Houston is shedding light on the alarming prevalence of “mental health deserts” in Houston, particularly in Black and underserved communities.
The researchers analyzed data from 97 ZIP codes in Houston, revealing a disparity between communities with high levels of distress and those with sufficient access to mental health professionals. While the city overall has 3,000 mental health counselors, the most distressed areas lack licensed professional counselors (LPCs) or therapists, leaving many residents without essential care.
“Mental health is foundational to overall well-being,” said Carmack. “The lack of access in these deserts doesn’t just impact individuals—it ripples through families, schools, and workplaces.”
The crisis in Houston mirrors a nationwide trend. Nearly 570 counties across the United States lack access to psychologists, psychiatrists, or counselors. In Texas, 246 of the state’s 254 counties are either partially or wholly designated mental health professional shortage areas by the federal government. In addition, approximately 5 million Texans are uninsured, making it even harder for individuals to access mental health care.
According to Mental Health America, nearly one-third of adults with mental health conditions in the U.S. cannot afford treatment. In Texas, these barriers are compounded by the high uninsured rate, further limiting access to care for vulnerable populations.
Research Findings: Distress Meets Limited Access
Department of Psychological, Health, & Learning Sciences, University of Houston. Credit: University of Houston
Dr. Carmack and Dr. Kelly utilized data from the Distressed Communities Index (DCI) and Psychology Today to identify Houston neighborhoods with the greatest need for mental health services. The research showed that economically distressed areas, particularly those in Black and underserved communities, are disproportionately impacted by a lack of available mental health professionals.
“The intersection of poverty and mental health disparities creates a dangerous cycle,” Dr. Carmack explained. “When communities lack resources, untreated mental health conditions can escalate, leading to higher rates of unemployment, incarceration, and chronic illness.”
These findings are part of a broader national picture. According to a survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation and CNN, 90% of Americans agree that the country is facing a mental health crisis.
Breaking Stigmas and Addressing Barriers
While a shortage of mental health professionals is a significant issue, Carmack and Kelly emphasize that stigma remains another critical barrier, especially in Black communities. Many individuals are hesitant to seek help due to misconceptions that mental health challenges are a sign of weakness.
Kelly worked in social services for 15 years, specializing in services for the homeless and low-income communities.
“In many Black communities, mental health issues are either ignored or viewed as weaknesses,” Kelly said. “This mindset makes it even harder to prioritize care and seek the help that is needed.”
Various factors, including cost, transportation, and a lack of culturally competent providers, hinder care access.
“We can’t just focus on increasing the number of providers; we need to address affordability, improve insurance coverage and ensure that care is culturally sensitive,” Kelly said.
To combat these challenges, they suggest a community-centered approach. They are working with local organizations, schools, and faith-based institutions to engage residents and create culturally relevant mental health programs. Churches, barbershops, and community centers are identified as potential community hubs for mental health discussions, offering trusted spaces for open dialogue about mental well-being.
“One of our main responsibilities is to spread the word about how to get this back into the hands of the individuals it will affect. It is, therefore, unquestionably community forums at the moment,” Kelly said. “Speak Your Piece ” is the podcast we review in my department. We’re attempting to leverage these other platforms, so we’re definitely going to produce some episodes with that as well. We are attempting to meet individuals where they are.”
Telehealth also presents a promising solution to expanding access to care. By leveraging platforms, mental health professionals can reach underserved areas and provide essential services remotely.
The research team is currently preparing its findings for publication in an academic journal. It also collaborates with local organizations to implement practical solutions to improve access to mental health services in Houston’s underserved communities.
Carmack hopes their work will inspire policymakers to allocate more resources to mental health initiatives and prioritize mental care in communities that need it most.
“Mental health deserts are a symptom of deeper systemic inequities,” she said. “By addressing this crisis, we can build stronger, healthier communities.”
