Our team left to right: Chrissy, Katie, Heidi, Hayley, Gary & Moose

missing: Cathy and 11 devoted board members

Dear Friends,

What a year it's been! With the addition of two therapists, a psychiatric nurse practitioner and an office in Waterbury, we’ve increased our capacity for individual therapy and provided even more comprehensive care in our community. As we launch our 2023 Annual Fund appeal, we ask you to join us in our mission to make high-quality mental health services accessible in the Mad River Valley and Waterbury communities.

Over the past few years, we’ve witnessed the profound effects of the global pandemic and the damage of social media on teen mental health. Many still struggle to cope with debilitating anxiety, depression, and uncertainty. Hannah’s House has stood strong, adapting to meet the evolving needs of the communities we serve. We’ve provided essential resources, education and individual counseling – all of which function as a lifeline to those grappling with the complex and often stigmatized issues surrounding mental health.

Our work is far from over; mental health issues continue to affect people from all walks of life. The challenges that lie ahead are daunting, but they are not insurmountable. With your continued support, we can make a significant difference in the following ways:

1. Expand Access: We aim to reach even more individuals who are in need of mental health support, especially those who lack access to care due to financial or geographical constraints.

2. Reduce Stigma: By funding educational initiatives, we teach social-emotional skills and combat the stigma surrounding mental health, fostering a more understanding and compassionate community.

3. Enhance Services: Your contributions will help us provide more comprehensive mental health services, catering to the unique needs of each individual.

Please consider a gift to our Annual Fund, and help individuals build resilience and learn skills to navigate the often turbulent waters of their mental health journey. Your gift of any size will directly impact the lives of those who rely on our services. Together, we can bring hope and healing to those who need it most.

Thank you for standing with us to prioritize mental health support in our community. We wish you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season and a peaceful new year.

Sincerely,

Chrissy Rivers

Executive Director

Click here for our Impact Report

Donate Here

Happening Now

Group Time at Harwood

with Gary Frankel, LICSW

One of the more rewarding aspects of being a therapist is the connection we are able to make with our clients and the local community. For me, nothing fills this cup more than the time I spend with the Harwood Community Learning Center (HCLC). HCLC is the alternative education program for Harwood Union High School. The young people that attend this program have struggled within the confines of the traditional educational system and HCLC offers an opportunity for a different way of learning in a more intimate setting. Click here to read more...

Weekly Walk & Talk

Every Monday at 9:30am our beloved board member Susan McKnight arrives on Meadow Road in Waitsfield to welcome all walkers! This is open to the public and a great way to meet people in the community. Tell us if you'd like to be on that specific email list.

Light Therapy

SAD or seasonal affective disorder is common during late fall and winter. It's often referred to as "winter blues". We have a loaning stock of light boxes for anyone to try. It's an easy way to lift spirits during the darkest days of the year. Read more about SAD here.

Free Mental Health First Aid Classes

We are thrilled to support 35 students obtain this certification at Harwood Union High School this fall. HUHS Guidance Counselor Jen Driemiller has worked hard to bring this educational opportunity on campus.

Hannah's House will bring Adult Mental Health First Aid Classes to the Waterbury Community this winter via Washington County Mental Health Services and the Waterbury Rotary.

*Pictured below are participants of our August YMHFA Certification Class in Waitsfield.

Helpful Resources

Mental health urgent care takes root in Vermont - VTDigger

The goal is to reroute as many people as possible from the emergency room and link them directly to organizations that provide counseling and psychiatric services.

Statewide Mobile Crisis Program

The Vermont Agency of Human Services is hosting a virtual information session on Tuesday, December 5th, 2023 about the Statewide Enhanced Community Mobile Crisis Program, which will provide 24-hour rapid community response to children, youth, families, and adults facing a mental health and/or substance use crisis. The program will visit homes, offices, schools, or any other community-based location to provide services. You can register for the information session here. If you’d like to raise a question or concern that you want the team to address during the informational session, email Raisa Alam of Health Management Associates.

Free Gun Locks

"Keep your Guns Safe, Keep your people safe" is one of several messages Vermont leaders have shared recently to increase safety surrounding guns. Free gun locks have been made available to the public at many locations around the state. Hannah's House in Waitsfield & Waterbury, Vermont now has gun locks available to anyone. Please contact Hannah's House at 802-496-9715 or email Chrissy to pick up a free gun lock.

Find a Therapist

By clicking this link, you can view a list of therapists in Vermont with current openings. This listing is updated every week. Please share this with anyone in your life who is seeking mental health counseling services.

Teen & Young Adult Help Line

NAMI is proud to introduce the Teen & Young Adult (T&YA) HelpLine: A free nationwide peer-support service providing information, resource referrals, and support to teens and young adults. Our T&YA Specialists are young people who understand what you're going through because they have been through stuff, too. They are experienced and well-trained. They care and want to help you find a way forward. Reach out by phone, text, or chat. Learn more by clicking here.

More Support Groups

NAMI VT is a helpful organization and offers ongoing support groups related to mental health in addition to many other services. Some of the groups are held in person; some are via Zoom/computer. Click here to view available support groups.