Resources for TBI Survivors

DHS - Online Referral Form

Transportation

Pace Customer Relations/ Schedule Requests: (847) 364-PACE 

RTA Travel Information Center: (773) 836-7000

ADA Paratransit   312-663-HELP (4357 voice)  or 312-913-3122 (TTY)
Is provided for customers whose disability or health condition may prevent them from using the CTA and/or Pace fixed route services for some or all of their travel

First Transit 877-725-0569
To be used for medical trips only.    Prior approval required

Illinois Department of Aging   800-624-2459
For those who are enrolled in the Illinois Circuit Breaker program, free rides statewide on all fixed-route public transit systems

Taxi Access Program (TAP)      312-663-4357
Must meet specific requirements under the Regional Transit Authority's (RTA) Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) program

Mental Health/Counseling

NAMI Metro Suburban 708-524-2582

  • The Living Room: A free, safe space to talk with trained peer recovery support specialists about emotional stresses and recovery.

  • The Drop-In Center: A stigma-free environment for adults 18+ living with mental health conditions to socialize and learn recovery skills.

  • IPS Supportive Employment Program: Helps individuals with severe mental illness find employment while balancing their recovery goals.

  • NAMI Connection: A peer-led support group where participants share experiences and coping strategies and offer mutual support.

  • W.R.A.P (Wellness Recovery Action Plan): A self-designed wellness course to help individuals manage symptoms and achieve recovery goals.

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) 833-610-5774

  • Portage Cragin Counseling Center: Offers individual, marriage, and family counseling in English, Spanish, and Polish, using evidence-based techniques to manage emotional stress and behavior patterns.

  • The Welcoming Center: Provides immediate behavioral health care, offering assessment, treatment, counseling, and support for issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance abuse.

  • Group Therapy (Journeys Program): Helps individuals develop life and social skills through group activities, focusing on problem-solving, organization, and managing symptoms and daily tasks.

  • School-Based Counseling (Step-Up Program): This program provides counseling, family therapy, and skill-building support to students in nearly 60 Chicago Public Schools. It addresses anxiety, organization, coping skills, and self-esteem.

Day Habilitation

Midwest Brain Injury Clubhouse 833-610-5774

MBIC follows the globally recognized Clubhouse model, a community-based approach to psychosocial rehabilitation. Their programs empower individuals to engage actively in their recovery through work, education, and social connections. With an emphasis on personal choice, lifelong membership, and community integration, MBIC fosters a supportive environment that promotes independence, reduces stigma, and enhances quality of life. Through comprehensive care and peer support, MBIC helps members lead more fulfilling and productive lives.

Synapse House 833-610-5774

Synapse House’s program, based on the internationally recognized Clubhouse Model, emphasizes the healing power of work to boost self-esteem and help members meet personal goals. Members participate in various units, including the Business Unit, where they develop skills in newsletters, marketing, and computer literacy, and the Culinary Unit, where they engage in meal preparation. The program also includes community outings, exercise, and therapeutic groups, fostering personal growth, socialization, and overall well-being.