Crisis Response Team to provide localized mental health crisis assistance

  • News
  • Dec 31, 2024
Social worker and an officer deployed as part of the crisis response team

On January 1, 2025, a new mobile crisis response process will be in place for Olmsted County. Prior to 2025, Olmsted County was included in a partnership to provide a regional response for mental health crisis services. Effective in the New Year, Olmsted County will have its own localized mobile crisis response process with 24/7 services provided by the county’s Crisis Response team (previously known as the Diversity, Equity, and Community Outreach team or DECO). 

What is mobile crisis response?

“Mobile crisis response is about offering face-to-face services for adults and children who may be experiencing a mental health crisis or emergency,” said Olmsted County Crisis Team Manager Sidney Frye. “The Olmsted County Crisis Response team can respond to a wide range of mental health crises such as severe anxiety, suicidal thoughts, psychosis, and significant emotional distress.”

Mobile crisis response involves the following steps:

  • Triage/screening.
  • Assessment.
  • De-escalation/resolution.
  • Peer support.
  • Coordination with medical and behavioral health services.
  • Crisis planning and follow up. 

Community benefits with the new mobile crisis response process

Providing localized mobile crisis response services to Olmsted County will provide several key benefits:

  1. Enhanced coordination and integration: We can ensure better coordination with other county services, such as mental health, housing, and social services. This integrated approach allows for a more seamless response to crises, ensuring individuals receive comprehensive support tailored to their specific needs. 
  2. Local oversight and accountability: With direct management of the mobile crisis team, we can maintain closer oversight of service delivery, quality, and outcomes. 
  3. Faster response times: With the new mobile crisis process, we anticipate faster response times during crises. The team's familiarity with local resources, geography, and community dynamics will enable them to act quickly and decisively, which is crucial during mental health crises. 
  4. Cultural competence and community alignment: Olmsted County’s deep understanding of our community’s unique cultural and demographic needs will allow the Crisis Response Team to be more culturally competent and aligned with local values, improving community trust and engagement.  
  5. Sustainability and long-term planning: Olmsted County can develop long-term strategies to enhance and expand mobile crisis services, ensuring they remain sustainable and responsive as community needs evolve. 

“We are confident these changes will lead to better outcomes for those experiencing mental health crises and a stronger, more resilient support system for our entire community,” said Director of Dodge and Olmsted Community Corrections Nikki Niles.  

Mental health help resources

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Additionally, 911 is always an option in an emergency. Other resources to consult include: