Vermont Center for Prevention and Treatment of Sexual Abuse (VCPTSA) - Burlington, VT

Vermont Center for Prevention and Treatment of Sexual Abuse

The Vermont Center for Prevention and Treatment of Sexual Abuse (VCPTSA) is a specialized state agency located at 50 Cherry Street, adjacent to the Costello Courthouse. Operating under the Vermont Agency of Human Services, the Center is jointly administered by the Department for Children and Families (DCF) and the Department of Corrections. Its primary mandate is to coordinate and oversee the state's systemic response to sexual abuse and violence, ensuring a comprehensive approach that addresses both victim safety and offender accountability.

Core Mission and Functions

Unlike a direct crisis service, the VCPTSA functions as a central oversight and policy body. Its key responsibilities include:

• Statewide Coordination: Facilitating collaboration between law enforcement, the judiciary, victim advocacy groups, and treatment providers to ensure a unified response to sexual abuse cases.
• Treatment Oversight: Establishing standards and certifying providers for the treatment of individuals with sexually abusive behaviors (both adult and juvenile offenders) to reduce recidivism.
• Prevention Initiatives: Supporting educational programs and public awareness campaigns designed to prevent sexual violence before it occurs.
• Victim Support Strategy: Working to ensure that trauma-informed services are accessible to all survivors of sexual abuse across Vermont.

Office Location and Access

The Center is housed in Suite 101 of the state office building at 50 Cherry Street. This facility also houses the Burlington Probation and Parole office. Visitors should be aware that this is a government facility; while it does not have the same heavy security as the courthouse next door, standard professional protocols apply. Appointments are strongly recommended for any in-person business, as staff are often engaged in off-site trainings or meetings. For immediate crisis support, the Center refers individuals to local 24/7 hotlines and direct service organizations like HOPE Works.