National Federation of Families

National Federation of Families A national nonprofit with more than 120 affiliates that provide resources, tools, support, & service

The National Federation of Families is a national family-run organization linking more than 120 state and national affiliates focused on the issues of children and youth with emotional, behavioral, or mental health needs and substance use challenges and their families. It was conceived in Arlington, Virginia in February, 1989 by a group of 18 people determined to make a difference in the way the s

ystem works. Members of the National Federation come from all walks of life. Emotional, behavioral or mental health needs and substance use challenges cut across all income, educational, geographical, racial, ethnic, and religious groups. They are found among all families - single and two-parent households, birth, adoptive, kinship and foster. The National Federation works to develop and implement policies, legislation, funding mechanisms, and service systems that utilize the strengths of families. Its emphasis on advocacy offers families a voice in the formation of national policy, services and supports for their children with mental health needs and substance use challenges across the lifespan.

We all need to be paying attention to this and advocating for the preservation of Olmstead should this move beyond a "le...
06/22/2026

We all need to be paying attention to this and advocating for the preservation of Olmstead should this move beyond a "legal opinion."

For people with disabilities, this is about whether they can get services at home instead of being forced into a facility. It’s about whether children and adults with disabilities can stay connected to their family, friends, school, work, and community life. It’s about whether people have a meaningful way to protect their rights when a state or system says “no.”

DOJ’s Olmstead opinion could weaken enforcement of disability rights under the ADA, Section 504, and the integration mandate. Here’s what it means.

A perfect share for Fathers Day. Here’s to all the men who are fathers and/or father figures. We see you. We appreciate ...
06/21/2026

A perfect share for Fathers Day. Here’s to all the men who are fathers and/or father figures. We see you. We appreciate you. We value you.

Millions more family caregivers across the country now have easier access to critical support through the expansion of t...
06/20/2026

Millions more family caregivers across the country now have easier access to critical support through the expansion of the Caregiver Support Program offered via 211 - – the 24/7 free, confidential 3-digit helpline. Today, AARP and United Way Worldwide announced the program’s expansion into 10 additional states — Connecticut, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Missouri, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and South Carolina, and regional support in California and Colorado.

WASHINGTON – Millions more family caregivers across the country now have easier access to critical support through the expansion of the Caregiver Support Program offered via 211 - – the 24/7 free, confidential 3-digit helpline. Today, AARP and United Way Worldwide announced the program’s expan...

A major policy analysis highlights peer support specialists as the fastest‑growing behavioral health workforce—and under...
06/20/2026

A major policy analysis highlights peer support specialists as the fastest‑growing behavioral health workforce—and underscores the financial instability threatening the field.

Peer support is expanding, but a $911B Medicaid contraction under H.R. 1 and new 2026 state certification mandates create a severe workforce funding crunch.

The American Psychological Association is clear that AI is not a safe or effective replacement for a qualified mental he...
06/16/2026

The American Psychological Association is clear that AI is not a safe or effective replacement for a qualified mental health provider and should be used carefully. APA’s new Guide to Navigating AI-Generated Advice Thoughtfully and Safely offers evidence-based suggestions on appropriate and inappropriate uses of AI to address mental, emotional and behavioral health issues.

Psychologists report a sharp rise in patients turning to AI for mental‑health advice, support, and even companionship, highlighting both its growing influence and the significant risks of relying on chatbots over qualified professionals.

With the right treatment, support, and resources, recovery is REAL — Restoring Every Aspect of Life. Most people who get...
06/15/2026

With the right treatment, support, and resources, recovery is REAL — Restoring Every Aspect of Life. Most people who get help do recover. Let’s make sure help is accessible to everyone.


Use this toolkit to learn more about what SAMHSA is doing to support people in recovery and how to share this information with your audiences. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of people in or seeking recovery from mental and substance use disorders.

With the right treatment, support, and resources, recovery is possible for everyone. Use this Toolkit to learn more about what SAMHSA is doing to support people in recovery and how to share this information with your audiences.

Address

9841 Washingtonian Boulevard Suite 200
Gaithersburg, MD
20878

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

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+12404031901

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