Co-Response Program: R.E.A.C.H.
Aspire Behavioral Health & Developmental Disability Services partners with the Albany Police Department to provide the R.E.A.C.H. program. R.E.A.C.H. stands for Responding, Engaging & Cultivating Hope and provides coordinated support for mental health-related 911 calls.
The program brings law enforcement and behavioral health professionals together. This helps individuals in crisis receive the right care, support, and follow-up services.
A Team Approach to Crisis Response
The R.E.A.C.H. team responds to calls involving behavioral health concerns. Trained police officers work with mental health professionals to provide a more informed and compassionate response.
Each response team includes:
- An officer from the Albany Police Department
- A fully licensed clinician
- A Certified Peer Specialist with lived experience
Together, the team assesses the situation, helps calm the crisis, and connects the individual to the right level of care and community resources.
Program Goals
R.E.A.C.H. works to improve support for individuals experiencing mental health challenges while also helping strengthen community safety.
Program goals include:
- Reducing repeat 911 calls related to behavioral health concerns
- Reducing arrests when individuals can be safely connected to treatment or support
- Reducing repeated crisis events and involvement with the justice system
- Connecting individuals to treatment and community resources
- Providing follow-up support after a crisis
- Advocating for each individual’s ongoing needs
- Strengthening partnerships between law enforcement and behavioral health providers
Who the Program Serves
R.E.A.C.H. serves adults age 18 and older in Dougherty County. The program supports individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis or those who need additional help after a crisis.
Hours of Operation
The R.E.A.C.H. team operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Supporting Existing Crisis Services
R.E.A.C.H. adds to existing crisis services but does not replace them. Mobile crisis teams and emergency services remain available outside program hours or when urgent help is needed.
Program Impact
Success in R.E.A.C.H. may include fewer crisis events, fewer arrests, better access to care, and stronger connections to the services needed. By working together, Aspire and the Albany Police Department help create a more responsive and supportive system of care.
Getting Started
To learn more or begin the referral process, call 229-430-4140 to schedule an intake appointment.
