CRT HIV Services and Co-Occurring Substance Use Care
Community Renewal Team’s HIV Services program operates from 330 Market Street in Hartford and combines HIV and hepatitis C testing, education, counseling, navigation, and behavioral health support. This listing is distinct from CRT’s general Behavioral Health listing because it focuses on people living with HIV or at risk of infection and the health issues that may accompany that experience. CRT’s current program page specifically states that counseling can address mental health and substance use concerns and that clinical substance abuse treatment may include case management, counseling, and Intensive Outpatient Programming. Alcohol problems can therefore be addressed within this specialized setting when they are part of the client’s clinical needs.
HIV Testing, Counseling, and Recovery Support
CRT offers free, confidential HIV and hepatitis C testing, with outreach staff able to meet people in the community as well as at CRT offices. People who test positive can be connected with counseling, medical appointments, and case management. Counseling services are available for people living with HIV/AIDS and their partners or family members. When alcohol use is affecting medication adherence, emotional stability, relationships, or safer health decisions, counseling can address those issues while also considering the stress of living with HIV.
Substance Use Treatment and IOP
The current CRT page identifies clinical substance abuse and mental health treatment that includes individual, group, family, and couples counseling as well as IOP. This makes the program relevant for eligible clients who need more than HIV education alone. Someone seeking alcohol treatment can discuss drinking patterns, relapse risk, co-occurring mental health symptoms, and other substance use during assessment. If alcohol misuse is contributing to missed medical care or unstable daily functioning, case management can help coordinate recovery services with other health and social supports.
When a Higher Level of Care Is Needed
This program is outpatient and should not be mistaken for a medical alcohol detox unit. CRT notes that its counseling and case-management services can refer people to more intensive levels of care when needed. A person with severe alcohol dependence, previous withdrawal seizures, delirium, or significant medical instability should disclose that history immediately. If inpatient withdrawal management or residential alcohol treatment is safer, staff can help connect the client to an appropriate program while maintaining continuity around HIV-related care.
Current Contact and Payment Information
CRT currently lists 860-761-7908 for HIV Counseling Services at 330 Market Street. For free confidential HIV/hepatitis C testing, the current call-or-text number is 860-681-2039, and CRT lists 860-333-8016 for confidential counseling information. CRT’s Behavioral Health program states that medical insurance is accepted but not required and that uninsured clients may pay according to income; CRT also says assistance is available to many people who are uninsured or underinsured. Anyone seeking alcohol counseling through HIV Services should verify eligibility, insurance or program funding, IOP availability, and whether the alcohol concern can be managed safely in an outpatient setting.
