Providing effective behavioral health treatment and resources in a Probation Setting

About the Program

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

Year: 2015

The Health Care Agency, Adult and Older Adult Behavioral Health Services and the Orange County Probation Department created a partnership program in response to the passing of Public Safety Realignment Act (AB 109). This partnership created a groundbreaking program that removed barriers to treatment and promoted access to care for offenders upon their release. The program includes a continuum of treatment services comprised of several services that are available to offenders who have untreated substance use and/or mental health disorders. These services are provided directly by County staff as well as by community-based providers through contract. Through the placement of Health Care Agency (Health Care) staff at Probation sites, offenders have access to treatment and resources where they first report to their probation officers. These clients are better prepared for success upon their reentry into the community. Staff facilitates client engagement into treatment which promotes independence, reduce recidivism, and increased public safety. Services are available to all individuals under Orange County AB 109 which includes Post release Community Supervision (PCS) and Mandatory Supervision (MS). This partnership is forward thinking program and continues to make advancements in identifying available resources and implementing cutting edge treatment options.