Planned Parenthood Launches Free and Low-Cost Mental Health Program in Osceola

The new hybrid program offers counseling, therapy, and support groups to qualifying residents ages 13-65.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 11:40am

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Planned Parenthood has launched a new short-term mental health care program in Osceola County, Florida, offering free and low-cost services to qualifying patients. The program, which is funded through the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, aims to expand access to behavioral health services for communities facing financial and systemic barriers. The hybrid model allows for both virtual and in-person visits at the organization's Kissimmee Health Center.

Why it matters

Osceola County has a significant shortage of mental health providers, with a patient-to-provider ratio of 579:1. Additionally, 64% of households in the county live at or below the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) threshold, making access to affordable mental health care a major challenge. The new Planned Parenthood program seeks to address these gaps and provide vital services to the community.

The details

The Planned Parenthood program offers counseling, trauma-focused therapy, support groups, and other behavioral health services for eligible residents ages 13 to 65. The services are designed to be flexible, with many patients engaging for around six months. The program is supported by a team of four clinicians, supplemented by student interns during the academic year, allowing for expanded access both virtually and in person. Patients may continue receiving services as long as funding is available, and Planned Parenthood assists with referrals and connections to other providers if additional or specialized support is needed.

  • Planned Parenthood launched the new program in Osceola County in April 2026.
  • The current grant funding for free mental health services in Osceola County is secured through December 31, 2026.

The players

Planned Parenthood

A nonprofit organization that provides reproductive health care services, including mental health care, in the United States.

Jearene Webb

A local counselor in Osceola County who has noted the shortage of mental health providers in the area.

Michelle Quesada

A representative with Planned Parenthood Florida who discussed the flexibility of the new mental health program.

Janet Santiago

Planned Parenthood Florida's Behavioral Health Program Director, who said the program is designed to address concerns early before they escalate.

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What they’re saying

“These short-term services are enough to help build some rapport and offer tools to help them through whatever crisis may be at hand, but they may not replace long-term care.”

— Jearene Webb, Local Counselor

“Through this funding, we're expanding access to compassionate, practical behavioral health services for Osceola County residents, including in-person support at our Kissimmee Health Center. Early intervention, before stress and trauma escalate, helps to strengthen not only individuals, but families and communities as a whole.”

— Janet Santiago, Planned Parenthood Florida Behavioral Health Program Director

What’s next

Residents interested in the program can contact Planned Parenthood's Kissimmee Health Center to learn more about eligibility requirements, available services, and appointment scheduling.

The takeaway

Planned Parenthood's new mental health program in Osceola County is a critical step in addressing the shortage of affordable and accessible mental health services in the community, particularly for marginalized populations facing financial and systemic barriers to care.