Frequently Asked Questions
Visitation is a right for all residents. Prior notification of the visitation is preferred because all residents in the facility have a right to privacy and confidentiality. All visits occur between 8 AM and 8 PM and will follow the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control, Vermont Department of Health, and the Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living. We are observing COVID-19 protocols that were put in place during the pandemic and notifying us before your visit can provide critical information to help keep visitors as well as residents safe and healthy.
Our Program continues to observe the core principles of COVID-19 infection prevention in accordance with current virus activity and the vaccination rates in the community. These measures are updated daily and are guided by principles laid out by the Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living. Collaborative Solutions Corporation leadership and the multidisciplinary team meet weekly to fine-tune compliance with the recommendations in this guide as the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information about our COVID Protocols.
Residents at our residences are adults that come from all walks of life who are transitioning from hospitalization to the community during their stays. All have the opportunity to share their skills with us by taking on a few tasks, such as cleaning, washing dishes, and running groups. They will be compensated for their efforts by Vermont Psychiatric Survivors. Others have the opportunity to hold jobs offsite and so earn a paycheck from their respective employers.
Our facilities provide residents with the opportunity to connect with the greater community. These opportunities take different shapes. Besides medical or therapeutic appointments, residents can attend church services, go to a gym, and take a short trips to buy groceries, clothes, or other items to make their stays more comfortable. Sometimes we can provide residents an opportunity to leave the facility just for a change of scenery. We can help residents plan visits with family or friends and will provide transportation within reasonable limits to make these possible. Depending on the resident’s stage of recovery, family and friends might make different arrangements for travel.
Collaborative Solutions acknowledges the integral role that nutrition plays in recovery. Often those who are most vulnerable face food insecurity and malnourishment, and these become further obstacles to overcome. More and more, studies are showing the correlation among mental health, physical health and the food choices we make. We make every effort to understand our residents’ choices around nutrition and encourage one healthy choice at a time through menu planning and one-on-one interactions, understanding that what we put into our bodies affects the core of our beings. Through a program of engagement, education, and empowerment, we help our residents take ownership of choices that have such a powerful effect on our mental and physical health.
Our kitchens offer healthy choices for lunch and dinner prepared daily, as well as a hot breakfast 3 mornings a week. We keep a well-stocked pantry of cold breakfast choices and healthy snacks. A nourishing snack is offered after lunch and after dinner. We invite our residents to engage in menu planning and meal preparation while offering opportunities to learn how to cook for those who would are interested. Second Spring is able to accommodate food preferences as well as allergies. We work with our staff and residents to plan around their specific needs.