Frequently Asked Questions
No, we do not provide counseling or therapy. MHAST provides supportive services relating to mental health, ranging from prevention support to crisis intervention.
MHAST uses a peer based model of service, meaning most of our program staff identify as peers – people with lived experience in mental health. Our program staff complete a certification with NYS to become a Certified Peer Specialist. Peer services have been shown to support recovery when combined with clinical services such as counseling/therapy.
In addition, some of our programs have NYS Licensed Clinicians (LMSW and LMHC), offering clinical knowledge and interventions for individuals experiencing a mental health related crisis.
Yes, MHAST accepts insurance and will bill your insurance company for supportive services we provide to you. You will never receive a bill for our services.
MHAST does not provide transportation. In some cases, there is arranged transportation for special program events.
Most adults will qualify for our services. Whether you are experiencing symptoms relating to Mental Health or want to maintain your MH wellness, our programs are available to you. Each of our programs have different criteria for enrollment, please visit our Programs and Services page for more information. Or call 607-771-8888.
Yes, individuals may engage in services in more than one program, as long as they are eligible. We provide a continuum of care, so we encourage clients to utilize all services that would be beneficial to their mental health wellness & recovery.
Individuals admitted to the SCR can stay up to 28 days.
The SCR is a voluntary, short-term program, open 365 days a year. Each individual identifies their own mental health needs and goals while staying at the SCR.
MHAST groups are offered daily (Mon-Fri) through the Sunrise Wellness program. Groups focus on themes such as wellness, peer support, hobbies & interests, social activities & events, and therapeutic arts. We have something for everyone, all are welcome!
All Sunrise Wellness groups are FREE, just call ahead to sign up. For first time users, a one-time registration is required (updated annually). To sign up or register for a group, please call 607-771-8888 option# 0.
Call 911 or the police & and request the MHAST Mobile Crisis Team – our staff will arrive to the scene with law enforcement. Our hours are DAILY, 10:00am – 8:00pm.
The Mobile Crisis Team supports individuals of all ages in crisis situations relating to mental health, helping individuals to remain safely in their home or community. De-escalation and safety interventions are offered to help avoid an ER visit whenever possible.
No, the Warm Line is not a crisis line. Our Warm Lines is answered by our staff who are NYS certified peers, meaning they have personal experience with mental health, allowing callers to access support before a situation escalates into a crisis. Our MHAST Warm Line is available to call 24/7: 607-240-7291
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline available 24/7.
SCSC services will include: triage & screening, de-escalation, safety planning, psychoeducation, peer support, coping skills, emotion regulation, and community connections & referrals.
Not offered: medication, diagnostics, detox, MAT, inpatient hospitalization.