Rural Mental Health

We’re here to help

Owning and managing a farm isn’t easy. With all the responsibilities and stress that comes with farm management, sometimes a farmer needs a helping hand. Minnesota provides assistance that farmers can turn to when the stress of their career becomes difficult to manage. For additional resources, check out Iowa State Extension's resource page.

Resources Brochure

Speak with a Mental Health Expert

Call the Minnesota Farm & Rural Helpline at (833) 600-2670 for free, confidential counseling 24/7. AgCentric is also partnered with Rural Mental Health Specialists Ted Matthews and Monica McConkey.

Monica McConkey, MA, LPC

(218) 280-7785

Monica brings over 30 years of experience in the rural mental health sector, working with both youth and adults across a broad spectrum of emotional and psychological challenges. Raised on a farm herself, she has a deep understanding of the unique pressures faced by those in agriculture. Monica is deeply committed to supporting farmers, their families, and agricultural industry partners in recognizing, managing, and navigating the stresses associated with life and work in the agricultural sector.

Tracie Rutherford Self, PhD, LPCC-S

Tracie has spent over 25 years working in mental health, supporting individuals and families through life’s toughest seasons. Raised in a coal mining town in West Virginia, she has lived in the heart of Midwest farming country for almost three decades. Tracie understands the grit, values, and challenges of rural life. Her work focuses on trauma, stress, and suicide prevention—especially among farmers and those tied to the land. Tracie partners with communities, ag organizations, and first responders to bring real-world mental health support to rural Minnesota.

Jennifer Vaughn, MS, LMFT

Jennifer has been providing mental health services in rural communities to individuals, families, and couples since 2009. She has experience with youth and adults who have had a wide variety of experiences, backgrounds, and needs. She looks forward to collaborating with farmers and agricultural communities.

Happy Retirement to Ted!


Help us celebrate the incredible career of Ted Matthews, a true champion for rural mental health. As Ted steps into retirement after decades of dedicated service to Minnesota’s farm families, we invite you to share your appreciation, stories, and well-wishes. Whether you’ve worked alongside Ted, heard him speak, or simply admire his impact—your words matter.

📸 Scan the QR code or click the link below to leave a message on Ted’s Kudoboard and help us honor his remarkable legacy:

👉 Ted Mathews Retirement Kudoboard

Let’s send Ted off with the heartfelt thanks he so deeply deserves. 💙

Coping with Stress

With a 24/7 helpline and dedicated rural mental health specialist, there is always someone available to talk to put a farmer’s mind at ease.

find help here

Daily Living Assistance

Find local resources to help with food, utilities, childcare, and other daily needs.

 Learn More

Business, Financial, & Legal Aid

Reach out to numerous organizations that assist farmers with improving their business.

Resources

You’re not alone

Listen to local farmers, ranchers, and agricultural stakeholders share their personal stories and share a message of hope in difficult times.

Click Here to listen

Down on the Farm Resources

These directories were collected from workshop participants.

Austin Down on the Farm Resource Directory
Grand Rapids Down on the Farm Resource Directory
Marshall Down on the Farm Resource Directory
N Mankato Down on the Farm Resource Directory
Thief River Falls Down on the Farm Resource Directory
Willmar Down on the Farm Resource Directory
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