Rapid Evaluation, Stabilization and Treatment (REST) Centers

The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) is soliciting proposals to establish up to four 23-hour Rapid Evaluation, Stabilization and Treatment (REST) Centers in DMHAS Regions 3 and 5, which serve rural communities. These centers will provide "no wrong door" access to mental health and substance use treatment, accepting walk-ins, police drop-offs, and other referrals. The initial contract aims to establish one REST Center by September 1, 2026, with services commencing no later than December 1, 2026. Three additional centers are planned for subsequent grant years. The REST Centers will offer voluntary, community-based services with a maximum length of stay of 23 hours and 59 minutes. They will accommodate 10 to 15 individuals at a time experiencing behavioral health or substance use crises, serving as an alternative to emergency room care for non-acute crises. Services will include medical and psychosocial assessments, crisis intervention, peer support, medication administration (including MAT inductions), brief counseling, community referrals, and discharge planning. The program also includes at least two step-down respite beds for individuals needing more than 23 hours of care, with a length of stay up to 7 days.