05/09/2025
Starting a mental health facility in Virginia (VA) is a significant undertaking requiring careful planning, adherence to state regulations, and a clear understanding of the services you wish to provide.
# # 1. **Define Your Services and Facility Type**
Decide on the type of facility you want to open:
- Outpatient clinic (counseling, therapy, etc.)
- Inpatient/residential treatment center
- Partial hospitalization or day treatment program
- Substance use disorder treatment (if applicable)
- Specific populations (adults, children, veterans, etc.)
# # 2. **Business Planning**
- **Create a business plan** outlining your mission, services, staffing, financial projections, and marketing strategy.
- **Choose a legal structure** (LLC, corporation, nonprofit, etc.).
- **Secure funding** through loans, grants, investors, or other means.
# # 3. **Compliance and Licensing**
Virginia mental health facilities are regulated by the **Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS)**.
# # # **Steps:**
- **Review DBHDS regulations:** [DBHDS Licensing](https://dbhds.virginia.gov/office-of-licensing/)
- **Apply for a license:** Submit an application for the specific type of service you plan to offer. The application will require:
- Facility policies and procedures
- Staffing plans and credentials
- Floor plans and safety measures
- Proof of compliance with building codes and zoning laws
- **Background checks:** All staff must undergo background checks.
- **Inspection:** Your facility will be inspected before opening.
# # 4. **Location and Zoning**
- **Find a suitable location** that meets zoning requirements for a healthcare facility.
- **Contact your local zoning office** to confirm permissible use.
- **Ensure ADA compliance** and appropriate safety features (alarms, exits, etc.).
# # 5. **Staffing**
- **Hire qualified mental health professionals** (licensed therapists, counselors, psychiatrists, nurses, etc.).
- **Meet Virginia staffing and supervision requirements** for your facility type.
- **Develop staff training programs** on policies, safety, and client care.
# # 6. **Policies and Procedures**
- **Develop comprehensive policies** for:
- Client intake and assessment
- Confidentiality (HIPAA compliance)
- Emergency procedures
- Medication management (if applicable)
- Incident reporting
# # 7. **Billing and Insurance**
- **Obtain an NPI (National Provider Identifier) number.**
- **Enroll as a Medicaid provider** (optional, but many clients may be Medicaid recipients).
- **Set up billing systems** for private insurance, self-pay, and government programs.
# # 8. **Accreditation (Optional but Recommended)**
- Consider accreditation from organizations such as The Joint Commission or CARF for enhanced credibility and insurance reimbursement.
# # 9. **Marketing and Community Outreach**
- **Build relationships** with local hospitals, schools, and community organizations.
- **Develop a website** and marketing materials.
- **Engage in community education** about mental health services.
# # 10. **Ongoing Compliance**
- **Maintain licensure** with DBHDS through regular inspections and reporting.
- **Stay updated** on changes to state and federal mental health
In collaboration with state and community partners, DBHDS plans, develops, directs, funds, and monitors the delivery of comprehensive behavioral health services throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.
