Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location: 1 South Prospect Street, Burlington, VT
Phone: 802-488-MHUC (6482)
Access: No appointment needed; walk-ins are welcome. Free parking and easy access by public transportation.
We’ll answer your questions and help you get started.
Howard Center Main Number
Mental Health Urgent Care will be closed December 24, 25, 26 and January 1.
Howard Center’s Mental Health Urgent Care (MHUC) provides a therapeutic alternative to emergency department visits for adults experiencing a self-defined mental health crisis. Located at 1 South Prospect Street, Burlington, our staff can offer immediate support in a trauma-informed setting. This initiative is in partnership with the University of Vermont Medical Center, Community Health Centers, and Pathways Vermont. Check out our MHUC program highlight for an inside look.
MHUC is here for adults over the age of 18 who:
At MHUC, we provide:
Our goal is to deliver person-centered, equitable, and coordinated care tailored to meet each guest’s needs.
MHUC bridges the gap between emergency care and primary care, providing timely mental health services in a supportive environment.
Our program is designed to reduce unnecessary emergency department visits by offering therapeutic options for those in need of immediate mental health support.
Services at Mental Health Urgent Care are fully funded and free for the first three years, with the exception of physical health services covered by insurance. Guests will be asked to provide insurance information to aid in planning for future services.
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What happens if I need ongoing support after 5:00pm?
Our staff will help determine the next steps, including referrals to other programs or identifying natural supports. Guests may return the next morning for additional support.
Is there a charge for services?
MHUC is fully funded for three years. No charges or bills will be issued during this period, except for physical health medical care services covered by insurance.
Can the Emergency Department refer to me to MHUC?
Yes, emergency department staff can refer patients to MHUC as part of a discharge plan, though they cannot refuse immediate treatment.
How is MHUC different from the Emergency Department?
MHUC focuses specifically on mental health and wellbeing, providing care in a trauma-informed environment tailored to the needs of each guest.
Mental Health Urgent Care is a collaboration with multiple partners including:
You can support Mental Health Urgent Care by donating to Howard Center. Contact our Development and Communication office at 802-488-6913 or email DevelopmentTeam@howardcenter.org.
For more information, contact Howard Center at 802-488-MHUC (6482) or visit www.howardcenter.org.
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