Spokane County invests in crisis relief center to enhance behavioral health services

Spokane County is set to enhance its behavioral health crisis response system with the introduction of new crisis relief and sobering centers, aimed at providing immediate support for individuals in distress. During a recent government meeting, officials outlined the development of these facilities, which will allow for 23-hour observation and care for adults aged 18 and older. This initiative is part of a broader effort to create a more effective continuum of crisis services in the region.

The crisis relief center will be co-located with the Spokane Regional Stabilization Center and is designed to serve as a safe space for individuals experiencing behavioral health crises. It will enable law enforcement and emergency responders to drop off individuals, diverting them from the criminal justice system or emergency rooms when less intensive care is appropriate. The center will also facilitate walk-in services, allowing individuals to receive immediate assistance without the need for prior appointments.

Pioneer Human Services has been selected as the provider for this new facility, which is expected to open in early 2027. The center will not only provide crisis relief but also sobering services, recognizing the community's need for comprehensive support. It will include minor physical wound care and assessment, as well as care coordination to ensure individuals are directed to the appropriate level of care, whether that be stabilization or withdrawal management.

In addition to the new center, the meeting discussed the establishment of endorsed crisis response teams under a new state designation. These teams, which include mobile rapid response crisis teams (MRRCT) and community-based crisis teams (CBCT), will be equipped to respond to significant behavioral health crises. While participation in the endorsement process is voluntary, teams that choose to seek endorsement will gain access to additional funding and resources, enhancing their ability to provide timely and effective care.

As Spokane County moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on improving the safety and well-being of individuals in crisis, ensuring they receive the support they need in a timely manner. The development of these services marks a significant step toward a more integrated and responsive behavioral health system in the region.