The CUPS program is an early intervention program for families of young children who are experiencing or are at risk for behavioral and emotional problems. CUPS provides mental health services to families with young children ages birth through six and for pregnant women or mothers who have a mental health diagnosis and are younger than age 23. Services are family centered and child focused. CUPS clinicians partner with parents to find ways to address behavioral challenges, build the parent-child relationship, and support the family in working toward stability.

Services provided include psychosocial assessment with recommendations for family-centered treatment. They also provide parent counseling, psycho-education and support, individual and family play therapy, service coordination, and referrals for other needed services. CUPS providers work closely with parents around parenting issues, help families navigate Vermont’s System of Care, and advocate for parental rights as needed. CUPS clinicians also provide consultation and education for parents, preschools and other early childhood professionals to build awareness of early childhood mental health issues and develop a coordinated system of care to address them.