SPRINGFIELD, Vt. – Finding time to access mental health or substance use services for a child can be challenging, especially when appointments compete with school, work, and family responsibilities. This November and December, Health Care and Rehabilitation Services (HCRS) is trying a new approach to make that first step easier.
HCRS will host two after-school pop-up sessions, on Nov. 10 and Dec. 8, from 3:30-6:15 p.m., giving children and teens ages 5-17 and their families an opportunity to begin accessing mental health and substance use services through HCRS outside of school. They are not intended for enrollment in HCRS’ school-based services. No appointment is needed.
“Between school, work, and other responsibilities, finding time to seek support isn’t always easy for families,” said Becky Gilbert, HCRS’ children, youth, and families director. “We want to make that first step a little easier. By trying these after-school hours, we hope to better understand what families need and how we can make our services more accessible.”
The idea grew out of conversations with community partners who work closely with children and families. Their feedback highlighted the need for more flexible options beyond HCRS’ existing Same Day Access hours.
Families can visit any of HCRS’ three regional offices or participate remotely through an online session. During the visit, children, teens, and their legal guardians will complete registration and meet with a clinician to talk about the child’s needs and discuss what services may be helpful. Before the visit ends, families will have a follow-up appointment scheduled with the provider or service that best meets their child’s needs. The process typically takes 1 ½ to 2 hours.
Families can participate in person in Brattleboro, Vt., at 51 Fairview Street; in Springfield, Vt., at 390 River Street; or in Hartford, Vt., at 49 School Street. Families may arrive or call anytime between 3:30 p.m. and 6:15 p.m. on Nov. 10 or Dec. 8. No appointment is needed. For questions or more information, call 802-886-4500 and select Option 3.