Our mission is to improve the well-being of children, adults, families, and communities.
We offer life-saving professional crisis and counseling services to children and adults; supportive services to individuals with autism and developmental disabilities who need help with education, employment, and life maintenance skills; counseling and medical services for those struggling with substance abuse; and intensive interventions for adults with serious and persistent mental health challenges. Howard Center was founded in 1865 and helps more than 16,000 individuals and families every year.
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Services Offered
Adult Mental Health Our Mental Health Services provide a broad range of quality programs and supports to adolescents and adults who are experiencing chronic mental health challenges. Children and Families Howard Center Child, Youth, and Family Services provides an extensive array of services in numerous settings throughout the community. The specific type, location, and extent of services is determined by the individual needs of children and families.
The Child and Family Outpatient Services provides counseling for Chittenden County children, adolescents, families, parents, grandparents, and caregivers. Substance Abuse Our Substance Abuse Services provide a broad range of quality programs and supports to adolescents and adults who are experiencing the negative effects of the abuse of alcohol or other drugs.
Fees and Payment
If you wish to receive services, you may also be asked for information, such as your social security number, medical history, and insurance.
If you do not have insurance, we will work with you to help you access the services you need.
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Qualifying for assistance from Vermont's program usually depends on the severity of your condition and financial circumstance. Read our full guide to Vermont's program.
A community counseling agency is a group therapy practice that offers affordable mental health services. Most are independent non-profit agencies, state agencies, or publicly-funded agencies. A few may restrict who is eligible for services, so it is a good idea to check when you call.
Community counseling agencies are generally more affordable than other therapy providers, but how much more affordable they are will depend on whether you qualify for a discount or sliding scale fee (or if they accept your insurance). Many, but not all, have a policy that they won't turn away anyone due to inability to pay. You should ask about their fees when you first call.
Expect to talk to kind people who want to help you find the care you need. Most community agencies strive to connect you with a live person within 24 hours, if not immediately. If you're asked to hold or leave a message, don't give up; just leave a message and wait. You should hear back pretty quickly.
Most agencies try to set up an initial assessment appointment within a week (some do within 24 hours), though the waitlist to start therapy is usually longer—about a few weeks on average. If you're not eligible or if the agency is not right for you, it's usually still worth it to call or drop in, because staff are knowledgeable about local options and can often refer you to one.