What if I need mental health help right now but can't afford to pay?

Call 988 for immediate crisis support at no cost. For ongoing care, Vermont's Designated Agency mental health centers are required to serve residents regardless of ability to pay and offer sliding-fee scales. Call 2-1-1 to find the center in your area and ask about financial assistance options when you call to schedule.

Does Vermont Medicaid (Green Mountain Care) cover therapy and psychiatric medication?

Yes. Green Mountain Care covers outpatient mental health therapy, psychiatric evaluations, and prescription medications for mental health conditions. Coverage extends to both children and adults who meet income eligibility requirements. Apply at mybenefits.vermont.gov or call 1-800-479-6151.

How do I find a mental health provider or counselor near me in Vermont?

The best starting points are 2-1-1 Vermont (dial 2-1-1 or visit 211vt.org) and the Vermont Department of Mental Health's website at mentalhealth.vermont.gov, which lists Designated Agencies by region. Your primary care provider can also provide referrals, and if you have insurance, your plan's member services line can give you an in-network provider list.

Are there mental health resources specifically for children and families in Vermont?

Yes. Vermont's Designated Agencies provide child and adolescent mental health services, including therapy and family support. The Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF) also coordinates services for families involved in the child welfare system. Call 2-1-1 or visit dcf.vermont.gov to learn what programs may be available for your family's situation.

Mental Health Resources in Vermont

Last updated September 29, 2026

Vermont residents facing mental health challenges have access to a range of publicly supported services, from crisis intervention and outpatient counseling to long-term care coordination. The Vermont Department of Mental Health, a division within the Agency of Human Services, oversees the state's mental health system and funds a network of Designated Agencies — regional community mental health centers that serve Vermonters regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 (the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) at any time. For help navigating non-emergency mental health services, benefits, housing, or other social needs, call 2-1-1 Vermont — a free, confidential helpline available 24/7 that connects callers to local resources across the state.

Cost is often a barrier, but Vermont's Medicaid program (called Green Mountain Care) covers mental health and substance use disorder treatment for eligible residents, including therapy, psychiatric medication management, and crisis stabilization. Many community mental health centers also use sliding-fee scales, so even uninsured or underinsured Vermonters can access care.

Key programs in Vermont

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Free, confidential crisis counseling for anyone experiencing a mental health emergency, suicidal thoughts, or emotional distress. Available by call or text 24/7.

How to access: Call or text 988 from any phone. Spanish-language support and services for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals (via chat at 988lifeline.org) are available. No appointment or insurance needed.

2-1-1 Vermont

A statewide helpline and online database that connects Vermonters to mental health counseling, substance use services, housing, food, utility assistance, and other social services in their area.

How to access: Dial 2-1-1 from any phone, available 24/7. You can also search the directory online at 211vt.org. Interpreters are available for non-English speakers.

Vermont Department of Mental Health – Designated Agency Network

A network of regional community mental health centers funded by the state that provide outpatient therapy, psychiatric services, case management, crisis stabilization, and supported housing coordination. Services are available to adults and children.

How to access: Contact the Vermont Department of Mental Health at mentalhealth.vermont.gov or call 2-1-1 to find the Designated Agency serving your county. Centers accept Medicaid, private insurance, and offer sliding-fee scales for uninsured individuals.

Green Mountain Care (Vermont Medicaid)

Vermont's Medicaid program covers mental health and substance use disorder treatment, including therapy sessions, psychiatric evaluations, medication, and crisis services for eligible low-income residents.

How to access: Apply online at mybenefits.vermont.gov, call the Benefits Service Center at 1-800-479-6151, or visit your local Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF) office. Eligibility is based on income and household size.

Vermont Veterans Services (VA-Connected Care)

Veterans in Vermont can access mental health care, PTSD treatment, substance use counseling, and crisis support through the VA's White River Junction Medical Center and community-based outpatient clinics across the state.

How to access: Contact the White River Junction VA Medical Center at 1-866-687-8387 or visit va.gov/find-locations to find the nearest Vermont VA clinic. Veterans in crisis can also press 1 after dialing 988 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line.