About MHA

Mental Health Services

In 1977, MHA opened the first community residence in Springfield for women being discharged from the state hospital. As community resources evolved, MHA began to offer a continuum of residential supports.

The creation of specialty services has been a hallmark. Examples include: mental health programs that address the co-existent diagnoses of trauma survival, substance abuse, homelessness and the special needs of young adults as they transition from children to adult services.

Developmental Disability Services

In 1990, with the imminent closing of Belchertown State School, MHA recognized a unique opportunity to provide our services to individuals with mental retardation. Our goal is to offer an expansion of housing options and to improve the quality of life for this population. MHA provides a range of supports and supervision from independent living to 24-hour assistance. MHA works collaboratively with multiple Department of Developmental Services area offices to address emerging trends and needs of individuals and families.

Traumatic Brain Injury Services

In 1999, MHA established a 24-hour residential program for the purpose of serving two individuals with traumatic brain injury. The program is an intensely supervised and structured setting. Funding for this program comes from the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC).

Department of Children & Families

In 2003 MHA created the Youth in Transition program for individuals in their late teens. This program provides support to help participants learn the skills necessary for living independently in the community. Individuals entering this program are likely to benefit from adult services funded by the Department of Developmental Services or the Department of Mental Health.