Pawnee Mental Health Launches Mobile Crisis Team in Central Region, Plans to Expand
On Friday, March 1st, Pawnee Mental Health launched the Mobile Crisis Team, another aspect of the Certified Community Behavioral Health Center (CCBHC) model of care, in its Central Region, serving Clay and Geary counties.
The Mobile Crisis Team provides timely intervention and support to individuals facing behavioral or mental health crises. This team provides hands-on assistance when situations exceed a phone call, reaching individuals at their residence, school, or community setting to actively address the crisis. Our crisis intervention in the field prioritizes de-escalation and stabilization in the least restrictive environment feasible.
The team consists of compassionate mental health case managers and peer support specialists, all equipped with access to a Licensed Crisis Clinician. This ensures that every interaction is enriched with both professional knowledge and personal empathy, fostering a supportive environment for those in need.
"At Pawnee, our Mobile Crisis Team represents our commitment to proactive intervention and compassionate support for individuals facing behavioral or mental health crises. By providing timely assistance and personalized care, we aim to prevent crises from escalating and promote better outcomes for both individuals and our community," said Brynne Haverkamp, Crisis Director at Pawnee Mental Health.
If faced with a mental health crisis, it's important to know when to contact the Mobile Crisis Team. Examples include:
- Danger to self or others because of mental health struggles.
- Suicidal, homicidal, etc.
- Psychosis or mania to the point of danger to oneself or the community.
- Property damage due to mental health struggles.
- Failing to care for self.
Although the Mobile Crisis Team may not be equipped to handle every situation, the Pawnee Mental Health Crisis Hotline is here to provide support and connect individuals with a wide range of community resources. From addressing homelessness and domestic violence to assisting with food insecurity and youth behavior issues, we’re dedicated to ensuring that no one faces challenges alone. Collaboration between service providers ensures a comprehensive approach to meeting individuals’ needs and promoting their well-being.
“Through collaboration with local service providers and timely intervention, we're working together to create a supportive environment where individuals can access the help they need when they need it most," Haverkamp said.
Pawnee’s Mobile Crisis Team can be reached between the hours of 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday by calling 1-800-609-2002.
As we move forward, the Mobile Crisis Team will continue to expand its reach to all ten counties served by Pawnee Mental Health, ensuring that our vital services are accessible to even more individuals in need. The team's plan includes initially expanding services to seven days a week in the central region before extending to other areas.