A new mental health and substance use clinic is now open in Sanford thanks to a $4 million grant from the federal government.

The behavioral health provider, Sweetser, got a big award from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to open up a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) in Sanford, one of the first in York County.

Sweetser’s ribbon cutting opening up their new clinic in Sanford featuring State Rep. Anne-Marie Mastraccio, Sanford City Councilor Peter Tranchemontagne, County Commissioner Donna Ring, Sanford - Springvale Chamber of Commerce President Rick Stanley, Chamber Ambassadors, and Sweetser staff

What exactly is a CCBHC?

CCBHCs are meant to get timely access to mental health and substance use services,

which can be inaccessible. Services include 24/7 crisis response and medication-assisted treatment. In a press release, Sweetser's Senior Director of Community Services said,

We have to meet folks where they’re at and in communities that desperately need more services. This clinic will reduce barriers to accessing services in the region and will create a one stop shop for meeting various levels of patient needs.

How will Sanford's new CCBHC be helpful?

This grant will let Sweetser help around 750 more children and families.

Outpatient Mental Health and Substance Use Screening, Assessment and Diagnosis
24/7 Mobile Crisis Response & Crisis Stabilization
Case Management Services
Peer Support Services
Outpatient MH and SUD Treatment, including MAT (Medication-Assisted Treatment)

This is a great thing for Sanford and Maine, and will dramatically increase access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment, and help Maine with the overdose crisis. Plus, it will allow better partnerships with law enforcement, schools, and hospitals.

Sweeters opened a CCBHC in Brunswick last year, and it's a huge success! We are so lucky to have Sweetser providing services to Mainers who need help. The new clinic is located at 863 Main Street in Sanford.