Accessing SIMS Services  

SIMS provides access to low-cost counseling and other mental health services for Austin-area musicians and their immediate families. SIMS welcomes musicians from all musical genres, races, and ethnicities who meet the eligibility requirements. Even those who do not meet the eligibility requirements can find support through SIMS because the clinical staff members stay well-informed of area services and can provide callers with information on other community resources that may be of benefit to them.

For more information or to begin the intake process call our confidential client line at (512) 494-1007. For emergencies, call the Travis County Help Line at (512) 472-HELP (472-4357) or the Suicide Hotline at 1-800-784-2433.

"We want all musicians in Austin to know that they are welcome to call SIMS when they need a little help. SIMS can refer them to a therapist in the SIMS provider network or they can refer them to other community resources that can help in times of crisis or stress."

~ Bruce Robison, SIMS Board member and local musician       

Services available from SIMS include the following:

• Information and referral services
• Individual, family, and couples counseling
• Therapy for children and adolescents
• Substance abuse treatment
• Psychiatric services on a limited basis
• SIMS Health & Wellness Program

SIMS works with a network of over 50 mental health professionals who offer their services at considerably reduced rates. SIMS pays a portion of those rates, and the musician client pays a co-pay which varies based on an individual’s income.

The SIMS Health & Wellness Program is a free service designed to provide information addressing common challenges in the musician’s life. Musicians and their families will be able to discuss problems and solutions to typical life experiences such as marriage, relationships, money, and parenting. The Health & Wellness Program is open to all members of the Austin music community.

SIMS is working to develop an affordable psychiatric service program that will include psychiatric assessment and medication management for musicians who need these specialized services. Psychiatrists in the Austin area who are interested in helping Austin musicians may contact SIMS by calling (512) 494-1007 or emailing sbruce@austin.rr.com.

According to several studies published over the years in the American Journal of Psychiatry, creative individuals such as artists, writers, musicians, composers, etc. suffer disproportionately from mood disorders and suicidal ideation. Stresses such as unstructured work hours, constant scrutiny, and rejection combine to put artists at a 112% increased risk of suicide (Journal of Social Psychology, 1997).

Most Austin musicians report making the same or less money than 10 years ago — even as the cost of living locally has doubled. In fact, the average income for an Austin artist is just $300 per week. To cover the rising cost of gas, rent, and food, these artists work jobs in addition to their music-related pursuits that frequently do not provide health benefits. Furthermore, Texas is ranked 49th in the nation for mental health funding per capita and musicians can easily slip through the cracks.

The challenges of being a musician can leave artists struggling with many personal issues. A report completed in early 2005 showed that the top presenting problems that SIMS clients face are relationship problems (35%), depression (29%), and anxiety (13%). Other problems that our clients face include substance abuse, family issues, anger, abuse, and bipolar disorder.

Austin-area musicians are encouraged to explore support services available through SIMS, the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, and other resources.