MAYSI-II & Early Intervention Project, Probation Department

About the Program

Category: Criminal Justice and Public Safety (Best in Category)

Year: 2010

The MAYSI-II Early Intervention Project is designed to address the critical need for effective early mental health screening and interventions for youth 12-17 years old. MAYSI-II refers to the screening tool utilized in the program, which is designed for use with minors in detention facilities. The program is a collaborative effort with the Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA), the Sand Diego Probation Department and the Dan Diego Unified School District. It is supported with funding from the Mental Health Services Act. The purpose of the Early Intervention Project is to provide for early identification and treatment for mentally ill or vulnerable youths in order to improve overall functioning, reduce the time spent in detention facilities and reduce recidivism. The probation Department, in collaboration with the HHSA, administers the screening as part of the booking process. One Deputy Probation Officer is currently dedicated to oversee the administration of the screening. This probation officer is also responsible for initiating appropriate referrals for mental health service for those youths identified by the MAYSI as needing additional support and follow up. Between July 25, 209 and January 1, 2010, the program has administered over 2,000 MAYSI-II screenings with 460 screening referred for a secondary assessment.