Substance Abuse

Criminal Justice Programs

Our Criminal Justice Programs were created with the recognition that criminal actions are often linked to persistent mental health or substance abuse issues. The goal of our programs is to address the underlying mental health issues and to support individuals while they begin to make changes in their lives.

DETER

DETER helps keep young women out of the juvenile justice system. Through integrated treatment and services, participants are encouraged to address mental health issues relating to substance abuse and trauma, while establishing community connections and building natural supports.

Drug Treatment Court

Drug Treatment Court is a four-part program for adults who have pled guilty to one or more non-violent, drug-related offenses and who are having or have previously had difficulty staying clean and sober.

Mental Health Court

Mental Health Court is a program for adults who are having difficulty with issues related to severe and persistent mental illness and who have been charged with one or more criminal offenses. It is an effort between the District Court, State’s Attorney's Office, Public Defender’s Office, and HowardCenter. The program involves frequent court appearances, active participation by clients in their treatment plan, and random drug testing, if necessary. 

Northern Lights

Northern Lights is a supportive home for women returning from prison. Residents continue under the supervision of the Department of Corrections, and the goal is to assist each woman to build a safe, healthy, and productive life in the community. 

Project MEND

Project MEND (Mentoring for a New Day) assists repeat male offenders within Chittenden County who have a co-occurring disorder of mental health and substance abuse. Participants are matched with a trained mentor who helps them address education, employment, and housing barriers, among others, as they work toward recovery and successful re-entry into society.