Bloomington's Innovative Mental Health Program Shows Promising Results In First Year

Bloomington's Innovative Mental Health Program Shows Promising Results In First Year

In a progressive stride toward integrated crisis management, the Bloomington Police Department, hand in hand with Bloomington Public Health, has renewed hope for individuals grappling with mental health crises, with their Bloomington Community Brain Health Services (BCBHS) proving effective since its 2023 inception. This innovative pilot program blends immediate emergency response with crucial follow-up care, providing a comprehensive support system for Bloomington residents.

Immediate care extends beyond the crisis point, coordinating transport and social worker referrals, BCBHS then pivots to facilitate post-crisis stabilization offering instant access to mental health treatment at zero cost, making headway with a staff that includes two full-time therapists and mentorship by supervised interns who are completing their graduate degrees in mental health fields. The operational success of the program is reflected in its positive community impact, since rolling out, it has served an array of clients, from eight to 90 years of age, the average being 30 years old.

The commitment of BCBHS to its participants has yielded tangible outcomes, approximately 20 individuals and families have been served, with upwards of 40 referrals persisting in the mental health treatment journey as a result of the program, marked by more than 130 therapy sessions delivered thus far. The sweeping age range of clients highlights the program's inclusivity and adaptability to various stages of life's challenges.

"We are very pleased with the success of the program," expressed Therapist Janet Yeats, acknowledging the milestones surpassed in terms of supportive reach and community engagement which has sparked an encouraging outlook for the program's continued evolution, as stated in an awards ceremony statement, Yeats elaborated on the transformative potential and widespread support that the initiative has sparked within the community.

The sustained efforts of BCBHS have not gone unnoticed, earning recognition and accolades such as the Regional Leaders and Innovators Award presented by the Minneapolis Regional Chamber in fall 2024. This acknowledgment is a testament to the forward-thinking and impactful nature of the initiative, which is carving a path for a more empathetic approach to mental health crises. For additional information about the BCBHS, those interested can contact Therapist Luke Campbell via phone at 952-563-8671 or email at lcampbell@BloomingtonMN.gov. More details on the program are available on the Bloomington Government website.

SOURCE: hoodline