LifeWays Access Centers

Jackson: (517) 789-1200 • Hours: M-F 8am-7pm
Hillsdale: (517) 439-2641 • Hours: M-F 8am-6pm

24-Hour Crisis Line: 1-800-284-8288

Customer Services & Recipient Rights Offices
Phone: (517) 780-3332 • Fax: (517) 789-7564
Toll-Free: (866) 630-3690 • Hours: M-F 8am-5pm


Empowering individuals on their journey to wellness.
 
LifeWays Access Center
Jackson: (517) 789-1200
Hours: M-F 8am-7pm
1200 N. West Avenue
Jackson, MI 49202

Hillsdale: (517) 439-2641
Hours: M-F 8am-6pm
25 Care Drive
Hillsdale, MI 49242

Physicians Unit
Jackson: (517) 796-4540
Hours: M-F 8am-5pm
1200 N. West Avenue
Jackson, MI 49202

Hillsdale
: (517) 439-9327
Hours: M-F 8am-5pm
25 Care Drive
Hillsdale, MI 49242

Customer Services & Recipient Rights Offices
Local: (517) 780-3332
Toll-Free: (866) 630-3690
Hours: M-F 8am-5pm
1200 N. West Avenue
Jackson, MI 49202
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Accessing Community Mental Health Services

Accessing services through the LifeWays Provider Network is just a phone call away. When you call, one of our friendly Access Specialists will ask you questions that will help decide if you are eligible for services. They will ask you where you live, and to describe what is happening in your life that makes you feel you could benefit from services. You will also be asked about your insurance and your income.

Together, you and one of our Access Specialists will determine your next steps:

  • If the situation you describe is an emergency, you will be directed to immediate help.
  • If your situation is not an emergency, and you are eligible for services, we will set up an appointment for you to come in for an intake assessment. This appointment usually takes place about a week after you call and lasts approximately two hours. By the time you leave, you’ll know what type of services you’re eligible for and you will have an appointment with one of the LifeWays Network Providers.
  • If you are not eligible for services at LifeWays CMH, we will help you identify other community resources that may help through Central Michigan 2-1-1’s database of local health and human services.
  • If you have private insurance, you may be directed to use one of your insurer’s providers before receiving services from LifeWays CMH.

If you can't call, just walk in. When you visit us, it is a good idea to bring your insurance card(s) and proof of income with you. We're here to help you when you need it.

Where are you located?

LifeWays CMH has two convenient locations to serve you. While walk-ins are always welcome, we do encourage everyone to call before coming.

To walk-in for services, visit us at:

25 Care Drive, Hillsdale • (517) 439-2641 • (800) 284-8288 • M-F 8am-6pm

1200 N. West Avenue, Jackson • (517) 789-1200 • (800) 284-8288 • M-F 8am-7pm

What if I’m in crisis?

If you or someone you love is experiencing a mental health crisis, please call us immediately to assess your needs. If medical attention is needed, call 9-1-1 or visit your nearest emergency department. To reach our 24-hour crisis line, please call (517) 789-1200 or toll-free (800) 284-8288.

What if I do not agree with a decision made regarding my need for services?

You will be given notice when a decision is made that denies your request for services or reduces, suspends or terminates the services you already receive. You have the right to file an appeal and/or request a state fair hearing when you do not agree with such a decision (state fair hearings are only available for Medicaid-covered individuals). To file an appeal, please call LifeWays Customer Services at (517) 780-3332 or toll-free (866) 630-3690.

What if I am not happy with the way my services were provided or the way I was treated?

If you are ever unhappy with the way your services are provided or how you are treated, we need to know. We strive to create an exceptional network of providers, so you can get the best, most effective treatment possible. Please notify us of any disappointing experiences you may have within the community mental health system. To file a grievance, please call LifeWays Customer Services at (517) 780-3332 or toll-free (866) 630-3690.

What happens if I feel my rights have been violated?

You, as a recipient of community mental health services, have the right:

  • to be free from abuse & neglect,
  • to be treated with dignity and respect,
  • to have your confidentiality upheld.

If you feel any of your rights have been violated, please call the LifeWays Recipient Rights Office at              (517) 780-3332 or toll-free (866) 630-3690.


Central Michigan 2-1-1

Who Can Use 2-1-1?
If you're looking for assistance with a problem and you don't know where to turn, or you simply want information on a particular human service issue, 2-1-1 is for you.

Currently, 2-1-1 is available in Jackson, Clinton, Eaton, Genesee, Hillsdale, Ingham, Lenawee, Livingston and Shiawassee counties, serving a total of 1.4 million residents throughout Central Michigan.

When Can I Call?
2-1-1 is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

How Does 2-1-1 Work?
If you're in one of the communities covered by the 2-1-1 service, just pick up your phone and dial 2-1-1. If you are outside our service region, click here to find the 2-1-1 nearest you or contact the call center directly by dialing (866) 561-2500 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              (866) 561-2500      end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

Who Answers the 2-1-1 Calls?
At Central Michigan 2-1-1, all the 211 calls are answered by trained professionals. Central Michigan 2-1-1 is endorsed by Michigan AIRS (Alliance of Information & Referral Systems).

What if I have problems dialing 2-1-1?
If you experience difficulty, simply call (866) 561-2500 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              (866) 561-2500      end_of_the_skype_highlighting to access the service and to inquire about technical assistance.

Project Access

Project Access is a community partnership that provides coordinated health care to the uninsured adults in Jackson County (this is not health insurance).

This program creates a system that provides health care to low-income individuals who do not have coverage and do not qualify for public assistance. Enrollees in the Project Access program will see primary care physicians as well as many other healthcare services they need at no or minimal cost.


Applications for enrollment in Project Access are available now. These applications will be available for pickup at the following locations:

  • United Way of Jackson County
  • Community Connections
  • Center for Family Health

Individuals interested in enrolling in Project Access should complete the application and submit it with all requested paperwork (these details are outlined in the application packet).

Eligibility for Project Access includes, minimally, the following:

  • Must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent U.S. resident
  • Must be a resident of Jackson County
  • Must have no medical insurance
  • Must not be eligible for other state or federal medical benefits
  • Must have a family income that does not exceed 200% of the federal poverty level
  • Must be age 19 or older

For more information, please dial 2-1-1.