North Country Community Mental Health (NCCMH) received notice that we were awarded another Three-Year Accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) after their site visit October 22-24, 2025. This is the seventh three-year accreditation the international accrediting body has awarded to NCCMH.
This accreditation outcome represents the highest level of accreditation that can be awarded to an organization and shows the organization’s substantial conformance to the standards established by CARF.
“I am very pleased with the excellent results of the CARF survey and proud of the team of talented professionals delivering quality services to our community,” said Brian Babbitt, NCCMH Chief Executive Officer. “What stood out to me during the exit interview is the recognition by all three seasoned surveyors of the strength of the team, their dedication, the teamwork, the positive attitudes, and the focus on those we serve. The high quality of our services reflects the high caliber of people who choose to make their lifelong career here.”
The report noted many areas of strength, with multiple references to the dedication, compassion, and strong, positive attitude of staff and staff commitment to the people they serve. Especially noted was the diverse, multigenerational nature of the staff, with many team members having been with the agency for ten to thirty years, providing stability and institutional knowledge, as well as the fresh perspectives and diverse skill sets of newer employees who, together, strengthen the organization’s capacity and innovation. Surveyors noted a strong sense of camaraderie, support, compassion, and unity with one another.
Also especially noted were NCCMH’s commitment to clinical excellence: a culture of continuous learning, professional growth, and best practices integration; and a culture where exceptional care is both expected and achieved.
The report noted strong collaborative relationships with community resources in its immediate and surrounding counties which makes for a comprehensive network of support for its clients. Additionally, NCCMH was recognized as a strong team player within the region, sharing tools, databases, and system processes with external partners to strengthen the broader system. The leadership team was noted as including experienced professionals with extensive tenure in the organization and the behavioral health system, positioning them to provide informed direction and sound decision making for the agency.
Programs surveyed were Assertive Community Treatment, Case Management/Services Coordination, Community Integration, Crisis Intervention, and Outpatient Treatment.
An organization receiving a Three-Year Accreditation has put itself through a rigorous peer review process. It has demonstrated to a team of surveyors during an on-site visit its commitment to offering programs and services that are measurable, accountable and of the highest quality.