Washington County Mental Health Court

Washington County, in partnership with Arisa Health, requests Federal Grant Funding in the amount of $550,000 in order to assist in the planning and implementation of the Washington County Mental Health Court. The purpose is to improve public safety and public health for preliminarily qualified individuals with mental health disorders (including people with traumatic brain injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder) who come in contact with the Washington County Criminal Justice System. The proposed activities include: establishing a multi-disciplinary team to ensure active participation of the judicial and mental health partners in developing an implementation plan for, administering and expanding a mental health court; expanding capacity to provide direct services such as case management, group counseling and peer support; using validated assessment tools to identify and prioritize individuals with a moderate or high risk of recidivism; proposing interventions that have been shown by empirical evidence to reduce recidivism; utilizing funds for public safety and public health for individuals with mental health disorders or mental health substance use disorders; implementing treatment and reentry services for incarcerated populations; and providing training for public safety officials and mental health providers.

 Washington County has not previously received JMHCP grant funds.

Expected outcomes include the establishment of a multi-disciplinary team that functions to ensure active participation of the judicial and mental health partners in administering and expanding the use of a mental health court, an approved Planning and Implementation Guide, a reduction of the recidivism rate for those exiting the Washington County Detention Center, the provision of evidence-based services, the creation of a public report explaining the program’s available services and resources, regular program assessments, and submission of a sustainability plan prior to the end of the grant program.

Washington County seeks to serve preliminarily qualified individuals within its jurisdiction who find themselves in the criminal justice system. This population includes vastly rural areas and a significant homeless population.

As a subrecipient, Arisa Health commits to be the mental health agency and community mental health center, maintain necessary certifications to offer behavioral health services, employ associates funded through this grant and qualified to offer behavioral health services specific to the criminal justice system including dedicated time from a licensed mental health professional or similar position, offer evidence-based screening and assessments based on individual needs, work with those in the criminal justice system to offer services, and work to reduce criminal justice involvement among participants.