Northern Kentucky residents can reach local behavioral health professionals around the clock at a single phone number: 859-GET-HELP (859-438-4357).

NorthKey Community Care, the nonprofit that serves as the state-designated Community Mental Health Center for the eight-county Northern Kentucky region, detailed the new line in a press release published Monday, Oct. 5.

The line is not limited to emergencies. Callers can reach NorthKey for crisis support, to start mental health or substance use treatment, or simply to talk through what kind of help they might need. They can also call on behalf of a family member, friend or someone else they are worried about.

"Sometimes it's a crisis. Sometimes people just know something is wrong," Danielle Amrine, NorthKey's president and CEO, said in the Oct. 5 announcement. "NorthKey's goal is to make the first step clear: call us at 859-GET-HELP."

NorthKey is a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic that provides what it calls integrated, whole-person care. That includes mental health services, substance use treatment, primary care and support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The organization serves thousands of individuals and families each year regardless of ability to pay and has operated across Northern Kentucky since 1966.

Local 12/WKRC confirmed the launch, reporting the number connects callers directly with local professionals who help determine next steps.

NorthKey's previous phone number still works. Anyone who dials the old number will continue to reach the organization. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which NorthKey manages for the region, is also unaffected by the new line.

NorthKey is already a familiar presence in Kenton County. In May, the organization partnered with the Fort Wright City Council and regional veteran support groups on the "Field of Flags" display at Fort Wright City Hall, an array of American flags honoring veterans affected by mental health struggles and suicide.

Residents in Fort Mitchell, Crestview Hills, Edgewood, Villa Hills, Crescent Springs, Lakeside Park and Fort Wright all fall within NorthKey's service area. The new line can be reached at 859-GET-HELP (859-438-4357).

Upcoming in Kenton County

  • Fort Wright property tax hearing — The city proposed a property tax rate increase for 2026-27. Details are available on the NKY Current's Oct. 5 report.