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This month, the Johnson County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved a new partnership between Johnson County Mental Health Center (JCMHC) and the Johnson County Community College (JCCC) Police Department, led by Chief Seth Mullis.
Through this partnership, a JCMHC Mental Health Co-Responder will join JCCC's Mental Health Response Team. Co-responders are licensed mental health clinicians who partner with local law enforcement agencies on calls where a behavioral health crisis may be present to assess and de-escalate the situation.
By offering behavioral health support, co-responders help prevent unnecessary arrests, reduce emergency room visits and limit future interactions with law enforcement.
College students, whether they are just beginning their higher education journey or returning to school, often face significant stressors, including academic demands, financial responsibilities, time-management challenges and balancing family, work and personal relationships. Because of mental health stigma or limited time or financial resources, many students struggle in silence, which can build up to a mental health crisis.
While many students have entered summer break, mental health challenges do not pause when classes end. This partnership will ensure JCCC students experiencing a behavioral health crisis receive compassionate support, timely care and the resources they need during the academic year and beyond.
Tim DeWeese
Director, Johnson County Mental Health Center
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