Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont Departments of Mental Health (DMH) and Health announced today that more agencies have met the criteria to become a Certified Community-Based integrated Health Center (CCBHC). The CCBHC certification creates stable funding and expanded services for the communities each agency serves while reducing the obstacles to healthcare that many Vermonters face.
The agencies achieving CCBHC designation are:
· Northeast Kingdom Human Services (serving Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans counties)
· The Howard Center (serving Chittenden County),
· Northwestern Counseling and Support Services (serving Franklin and Grand Isle Counties),
· Health Care and Rehabilitation Services (serving Windsor and Windham counties)
·
These four agencies join Clara Martin Center and Rutland Mental Health Services to total six CCBHCs in Vermont. With this addition, 75% of Vermonters are now served by a CCBHC.
“This is a fantastic step in expanding the quality and accessibility of healthcare resources in the State of Vermont. This accomplishment strengthens a commitment Vermont made toward CCBHC implementation in March 2023 when it was awarded federal funding,” said Emily Hawes, Commissioner of the Department of Mental Health.
Certified Community Based Health Centers are a national model that expands access to healthcare. It brings together services like integrated mental health, substance use, and crisis services in one location like a one stop shop for healthcare. CCBHCs partner with hospitals, the VA, the courts, schools, and community providers to create coordinated care for individuals regardless of their ability to pay. Because CCBHCs receive specialized Medicaid funding, the cost of services is covered for the individual.
“We are proud of the work that went into bringing aboard these four new Certified Community-Based integrated Health Centers and we will continue to work to implement new centers to better meet the healthcare needs of Vermonters,” said Samantha Sweet, Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Mental Health.
The four agencies were officially certified on July 1, 2026. The process of full certification began in December of 2024. The process involved significant collaboration with partners and community members, development of a solid certification process, research on rate setting, and financial analysis. DMH will continue to support these centers as it works to certify additional centers in the future.
For additional information about CCBHCs in Vermont, visit the DMH CCBHC webpage.
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.
7.22.2026. Waterbury, VT – Vermont Departments of Mental Health mentalhealth.vermont.gov
To support vital journalism, access our archives and get unique features like our award-winning profiles, Book of Lists & Business-to-Business Directory, subscribe HERE!
Vermont Business Magazine