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Police and Social Workers Unite for Mental Health Crises
27 Mar
Summary
- Hemet Police partner with social workers for mental health emergencies.
- CBAT teams consist of detectives and licensed social workers.
- Over 5,800 crisis calls were handled by CBAT teams last year.
The Hemet Police Department has initiated a significant partnership with Riverside County social workers to improve responses to mental health crises. This collaboration forms Community Behavioral Assessment Teams (CBAT), which pair law enforcement detectives with licensed social workers.
These CBAT clinicians, holding master's degrees, are equipped to handle mental health emergencies outside of traditional clinical settings. They focus on de-escalating situations and ensuring individuals receive appropriate care and follow-up resources.
Last year, Riverside County's CBAT teams were deployed to over 5,800 crisis service requests across 20 police departments. This initiative aims for a holistic approach to mental healthcare, fostering better community engagement and access to services.
