Frederick County Executive Jan Gardner today announced the expansion of an innovative program that provides residents with mobile crisis services. The Mobile Crisis Services team brings social workers, counselors, and other specialists to people suffering from substance abuse, homelessness, or mental health concerns.
Starting this week, Mobile Crisis Services are available seven days a week, 12 hours a day for adults, and 24 hours a day for children. Frederick County Health Department’s Behavioral Health Services unit will manage the services through an agreement with Sheppard Pratt. By June 1, Mobile Crisis Services will expand to offer round-the-clock service for all residents, regardless of age.
“Our goal is to ensure the best outcomes for people who are in crisis,” said County Executive Gardner. “Expanding this vital service allows us to help more residents by providing the right care and support they need, and providing it where and when they need it most. We are re-imagining how to respond in these situations.”
According to a County press release:
Staffing is provided through Sheppard Pratt. Social workers and mental health experts will respond when dispatched by the County’s 9-1-1 center, by the 2-1-1 crisis hotline managed by the Mental Health Association of Frederick County, or by law enforcement.
“The demand is greater than ever for access to life-saving resources that support mental health, and we have to be creative in how we intervene and support people in their current struggles,” said Scott Rose, Chief of Rehabilitation and Recovery Services at Sheppard Pratt. “By expanding mobile crisis services in Frederick, we can provide access to a timely and effective emergency mental health response in partnership with first responders and connect individuals with the right next level of care.”
