We collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies across Northwest Washington through a range of longstanding relationships, as well as formal Community Response partnerships. This allows us to embed Compass Health mental health providers within law enforcement, 9-1-1 dispatch and other first responder teams to allow a mental health responder to utilize their specialized training for mental health needs as appropriate.

When officers refer individuals experiencing behavioral health needs to Compass Health and other providers, it can mark the beginning of a recovery journey. These referrals enable us to work with clients to pursue their goals for recovery, de-escalate issues, and help avoid dependence on jail or emergency departments.

Finally, when Compass Health team members observe drug use, vandalism or other illegal behavior caused by individuals not associated with our programs, it is our policy to alert authorities by calling 9-1-1 or the non-emergency line.