© 2025 British Virgin Islands Services Authority. All rights reserved.
Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (COMHSA) is a counseling and psychiatric rehabilitation center that caters to persons with mental illness, substance abuse and behavioral issues.
The participation of the community in the delivery of mental health services is important. The early identification and treatment of mental disorders requires the health sector to work collaboratively with departments and agencies representing areas such as community services, child and family services, aged care, housing, and the legal system.
The partnerships forged serve to empower the community to be proactive in attending to their mental health and wellness. The success of the services hinges on sustainable and consistent progression of programs. If we can dedicate the necessary resources, support and commitment to the development of the service, we can significantly reduce the burden society will have to bear as a result of chronic mental illness becoming endemic in our society.
In January 2015 Community Mental Health and the Sandy Lane drug Rehabilitative Services merged creating Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. The unit is within the Primary Health, Community Health Services Department in the British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority.
The Services’ primary mandate is the provision of mental health and drug rehabilitative services to the people of the Virgin Islands. As such, it receives referrals from a broad cross section of agencies and the general public for persons with mental illness, substance abuse and behavioral issues.
Community Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services is dedicated to providing accessible, compassionate, and comprehensive care to individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges in the Virgin Islands. Our mission is to enhance the well-being of the community by offering a range of support services, including counseling, crisis intervention, treatment programs, and preventive education.
We aim to foster a supportive environment where individuals can receive the help, they need to achieve recovery and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. Whether in times of crisis or as part of ongoing care, our team is here to support individuals every step of the way.
Our professionals conduct thorough mental health assessments to develop personalized care plans, ensuring that individuals receive appropriate and effective treatment.
We provide individual, group, and family counseling to support individuals in managing mental health challenges and overcoming substance abuse.
Our team is available to provide immediate assistance to individuals in crisis, ensuring they receive the necessary care and guidance in urgent situations.
We offer tailored treatment plans for individuals struggling with substance use, including detoxification, assistance with rehabilitation, and recovery support.
We provide resources and counseling for families and caregivers to help them understand and support their loved ones facing mental health or substance use issues.
We actively engage in outreach efforts to connect with vulnerable populations and advocate for improved mental health and substance abuse services within the community.
Training local health workers, community leaders, and first responders in MHPSS principles to ensure they are prepared to offer appropriate care during emergencies.
Promoting understanding of mental health needs and available services within the affected community, aiming to reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek help.
Through programs like our BeMindful Campaign, individuals with lived experiences of mental health challenges share their stories to inspire others and provide support in a safe, understanding environment.
Our clinicians actively engage with students across the territory by providing mental health sessions in schools. These sessions are designed to promote emotional well-being, enhance coping skills, and address any mental health concerns students may be facing. Through these outreach efforts, we aim to create a supportive and open environment where students can learn about mental health, receive guidance, and access resources in a familiar and safe setting. This service also helps to reduce stigma, normalize discussions around mental health, and provide early intervention for students in need of support.
We are incredibly proud of the BVI Anti-Stigma BeMindful Campaign, an initiative that stands as a testament to our commitment to combating stigma and discrimination surrounding mental health. At the heart of this campaign are individuals with lived experiences, whom we proudly refer to as “Champions.” These Champions share their personal stories to break down barriers and challenge the misconceptions that often surround mental health and substance abuse. By speaking openly about their journeys, they inspire others to seek help, share their own experiences, and find strength in community.
The BeMindful campaign creates a safe, supportive space for everyone, offering the reassurance that seeking help is not only okay but encouraged. We believe that through these authentic conversations and by amplifying the voices of those who have lived through these challenges, we can create a more understanding and compassionate environment for all.
Monday through Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
We provide On-Call Emergency Response (OCR) – a dedicated, around-the-clock services, ensuring immediate support and assistance for critical situations and unforeseen events.
© 2025 British Virgin Islands Services Authority. All rights reserved.
© 2025 British Virgin Islands Services Authority. All rights reserved.