Crossposted from Cultivating Connections

When a person is in a mental health or substance use crisis, law enforcement or emergency medical services are often the first to arrive. In some instances, Designated Crisis Responders (DCRs) also come to provide an essential service. DCRs investigate, evaluate, and ultimately decide whether to detain an individual under State statute for involuntary psychiatric or substance abuse care.

People can experience a wide range of behavioral health needs, and with that comes a range of services to respond to these needs. DCRs are a critical part of the continuum of care. So, who are DCRs?

• DCRs are master’s level (or higher) licensed  behavioral health clinicians with specialized training in Washington state Involuntary Treatment Act (ITA) law.
• DCRs respond to a behavioral health crisis and balance the individuals needs, their civil rights and public safety, while also considering the least restrictive option available to meet the critical need.
• Per Washington state law, in cases where a person presents with an imminent threat to themselves, others or another’s property or is gravely disabled; DCRs are provided with the authority to place this person on an emergency behavioral health hold.

Read more.