Mental Health Deputy

Mental health deputies (MHDs) are peace officers specially trained in crisis intervention through the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. MHD programs promote collaboration between law enforcement and the crisis response teams of local mental health authorities and local behavioral health authorities. MHD programs improve the crisis response system by diverting people in need of behavioral health crisis services from hospitals and jails to effective community-based alternatives. MHD programs facilitate assessments for appropriate treatment at less cost than hospitals and jails.

While many law enforcement-related programs are called MHD programs, local communities have various names for their programs that coordinate collaboration between MHDs and behavioral health crisis services. The following law enforcement-related programs may be included under the category of MHD programs:

  • Crisis Co-Response Team
  • Interdisciplinary Rapid Response Team
  • Crisis Intervention Team
  • Mental Health Officer Team
  • Assistance, Stabilization and Prevention
  • Compassionate Open Access to Services and Treatment

Training

  • The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement strives to establish standards and monitor resources to ensure that the people of Texas are served by highly trained and ethical law enforcement, corrections, and telecommunications personnel. The Commission sets minimum standards for licensing as a peace officer, including training requirements, proficiency certification, examinations, and continuing education.

Forms/Handbooks/Rates

Statutes/Rules

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