Hosts Patricia Wu and Jessica Reyes, along with guest psychiatrist Dr. Dan Bober discuss the success of New Jersey’s “Arrive Together” program, mental health professionals are paired with police officers to improve responses to crisis calls.
Mental health crises and police encounters
Individuals with mental illness are significantly more likely to experience negative outcomes during police interactions. Specialized crisis intervention training is often lacking in police departments.
The need for alternative response models
Having mental health professionals as first responders can reduce the risk of escalation and violence, especially when the situation doesn’t involve immediate threats to public safety.
Expanding successful programs
The “Arrive Together” model demonstrates that alternative crisis response programs can reduce arrests and use of force. Expanding these programs requires addressing funding and regulatory obstacles.
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