MyTime program at UCS offers support group for pregnant or parenting women affected by substance use

United Counseling Service (UCS) offers MyTime, a free, in-person support group for pregnant or parenting women affected by substance use, through a grant from the Vermont Department of Health’s Office of Drug and Alcohol Programs. MyTime is a ten-session program that aims to help participants learn important life and coping skills, as well as the positive effects of safe, nurturing parenting, risks of substance use, and how to overcome the challenges of substance use and raising a family. Discussion topics also include relationships, stress management, and general support for building a healthy lifestyle. The group is open to all pregnant or parenting women—there is no requirement to be a UCS client to participate in MyTime.

One of the goals of the group is for participants to connect over shared and diverse experiences alike to reduce some effects of mental health and/or substance use challenges. “MyTime is about connecting, recharging, and growing as women,” says Keili Trottier, Assistant Director of Outpatient Mental Health and Substance Use Services at UCS. “The program is designed to be an opportunity for connection and self-care. When we feel connected, life doesn’t feel as hard.”

MyTime is held in person at United Counseling Service’s 316 Dewey Street location in Bennington, VT. Registrations occur on a rolling basis. Please call 802-442-5491 or email KTrottier@ucsvt.org or TLaFountain@ucsvt.org to sign up.

UCS’ division of Outpatient Mental Health and Substance Use Services provides a variety of programs and service across Bennington County, including individual and group therapy, case management, intensive outpatient services, harm reduction resources, youth substance use services, recovery support through CHESS Health digital applications, community education and consultation, and more.

Please visit ucsvt.org to learn more about UCS and its programs and services in Bennington County.

United Counseling Service (UCS) is committed to helping individuals and families in Bennington County live healthy, meaningful lives. Our work spans mental health, substance use treatment, intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), and early childhood development. UCS is a private, non-profit community mental health center that has been an essential part of Bennington County’s integrated healthcare system since 1958. For more information or to access our services, visit www.ucsvt.org or call (802) 442-5491.