Department of Mental Health Chooses Four New CCBHC Demonstration Sites
HCRS, Howard Center, NKHS, and NCSS Work Toward Certification in 2026
Waterbury, VT – The Vermont Department of Mental Health (DMH), in partnership with the Vermont Department of Health’s Division of Substance Use Programs (DSU) has chosen four more community mental health agencies as demonstration sites for the Certified Community-Based Integrated Health Centers (CCBHCs) model. The CCBHC model provides mental health, substance use, and physical health services in one place. It serves individuals of all ages, locations, and abilities to pay. The model ensures better access to care regardless of an individual’s circumstances.
The chosen agencies are Healthcare and Rehabilitation Services (HCRS), which serves Windsor and Windham counties; Howard Center, which serves Chittenden County; Northeast Kingdom Human Services (NKHS), which serves Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans counties; and Northwestern Counseling and Support Services (NCSS), which serves Franklin and Grand Isle counties. These agencies will work toward full CCBHC certification by July 2026.
“The CCBHC model is designed to break down barriers to care for Vermonters,” said DMH Commissioner Emily Hawes. “Coordinating multiple appointments is one of the biggest hurdles folks face when trying to access care. Bringing services together under one roof, within the community, can truly change lives.”
In fall 2023, Clara Martin Center and Rutland Mental Health were the first two agencies picked as CCBHC demonstration sites. They are currently under review, aiming for full certification by July 2025. Both agencies have reported significant improvements since adopting the model. These include:
- Expanded care coordination services
- Better client access to peer support and nursing services. These combine mental health, substance use, and physical health care
- Faster assessments and a quicker start to services
- Increased staff training opportunities, especially in evidence-based practices (EBPs)
- Greater focus and service for veterans and members of the armed forces
In July 2025, Vermont will officially begin participation in the federal CCBHC Demonstration program. It provides enhanced funding for CCBHC operations for four years. During the demonstration period, Vermont will work with partners to collect data. This data will inform long-term planning and program sustainability.
“Expanding this model to six total sites allows us to meet more people where they are with the type of care they need,” Health Department Deputy Commissioner Kelly Dougherty said. “By working together, we're confident this model will continue to transform care for individuals and families statewide.”
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About the Department of Mental Health
Vermont Department of Mental Health (DMH) has a critical mission to improve the conditions and well-being of all Vermonters across the state and protect those who cannot protect themselves.
Visit mentalhealth.vermont.gov