Talking to a Counselor Now
Crisis services across Vermont remain open with people ready to help.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has a 24/7 365-days-a-year hotline for people experiencing emotional stress due to natural or human-caused disasters. Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUS to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
Finding a Local Counselor or Mental Health Professional
In addition to the regular DMH Services site, your local mental health agency offers a broad range of services including crisis support lines; you can also dial 2-1-1 or visit the 2-1-1 website to find local resources of many types. For residents in Chittenden Country looking for a therapist for a child or adolescent, there is also a new program from the Howard Center called Partners for Access that can be reached by calling (802) 488-7474 or by emailing PartnersForAccess@howardcenter.org. You can expect to receive a response within 1 business day of your initial contact. Statewide, private therapists are listed on the Psychology Today website.
Using Telemedicine and Telephone Services Given the Coronavirus outbreak, most mental health appointments are being done through a computer or smartphone using videoconferencing technology. In addition, restrictions regarding the use of phone call appointments have been relaxed. If you already work with a mental health professional, you may be asked to provide an email address or phone number so that your appointment can take place through one of these mechanisms.
Direct Online and Phone Support Services for LGBTQ Youth The Human Rights Campaign compiled some resources that LGBTQ youth and their parents/guardians can access online or by phone.
Resources
Daily Life and Coping, Centers for Disease Control
Fact Sheets for Providers, Families, Leaders, from the Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress
Feelings of Loss and Grief during the Covid-19 Crisis
Hunger Free Vermont - COVID-19 & Food Access
Preparing for the Coronavirus by Taking Care of Your Whole Self
Small Businesses and Challenges of Covid
Staying Mentally Healthy During Self-Isolation or Quarantine
Vermont Resources - Feeding Your Family
Send DMH a Question
Do you have a mental health related question that you would like to ask experts here at DMH? Have you come up with a useful tip to maintain good mental health for you or your family? Send us an email at AHS.DMHCOVID19Info@vermont.gov and we’ll respond as soon as possible.