Mental Health

County Commissioners Negotiate New Mental Health Services to Address Homelessness and Incarceration Issues

County commissioners are actively negotiating with Creoks Behavioral Health to introduce a new mental health service provider in Oklahoma County. The initiative aims to tackle persistent issues related to homelessness and reduce the number of nonviolent offenders being incarcerated.

Addressing Homelessness Through Mental Health Services

The county's efforts are focused on addressing the deep-seated connections between mental health crises and homelessness. The upcoming center, planned for opening in 2026, is designed to offer support services that can help prevent individuals from becoming homeless. Commissioners recognize that mental health issues are a significant factor contributing to homelessness, and they are committed to finding solutions that address these underlying problems.

By working with Creoks Behavioral Health, Oklahoma County aims to provide comprehensive mental health services that can intervene before individuals reach a state of crisis that often leads to homelessness. This proactive approach is hoped to mitigate the cycle of homelessness and provide individuals with the support they need to stabilize their lives.

Reducing Incarceration for Nonviolent Offenders

A key goal of the negotiations is to reduce the incarceration rates of nonviolent offenders, particularly those whose actions are closely tied to mental health issues. The county is focusing on competency evaluations to determine if incarceration is necessary, with the aim of providing help without resorting to arrests.

The initiative includes the formation of a Behavioral Health Coalition by Stone, tasked with creating a framework for crisis responder involvement. This coalition will ensure that mental health professionals are actively involved in emergency situations, offering alternatives to jail for individuals experiencing mental health crises.

Developing New Mental Health Services

The development of new mental health services is a central component of the county's efforts. Plans are underway to establish both a stabilization center and a mobile response team to address mental health crises as they occur. These services are intended to act as immediate support systems, offering individuals the care they need without the need for law enforcement intervention.

The stabilization center will serve as a safe space for individuals undergoing a mental health crisis, providing them with the necessary resources and support for up to 72 hours, as outlined in the new 72-hour commitment law. This approach aims to stabilize the situation and provide long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes.

Training and Crisis Response

The initiative also includes comprehensive mental health training for emergency responders. This training is designed to equip responders with the skills and knowledge needed to handle mental health crises effectively, ensuring that they can provide the appropriate support and intervention without escalating the situation.

Additionally, the mobile response team will be a critical component of the county's strategy to divert individuals from jail. This team will be available to respond to mental health crises in real-time, offering an immediate alternative to incarceration and ensuring that individuals receive the care they need.

The county's initiative represents a significant step forward in addressing the intertwined issues of mental health, homelessness, and incarceration. By collaborating with Creoks Behavioral Health, Oklahoma County is paving the way for a more compassionate and effective approach to these complex challenges.