(PMRT) Psychiatric Mobile Evaluation Teams, what do they do:
Psychiatric Mobile Evaluation Teams (PMETs), also known by other names like Crisis Assessment Teams or Mobile Crisis Intervention Teams, are specialized mental health response teams designed to provide on-site emergency psychiatric assessments and support to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. Their primary goals are to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals in crisis and to connect them to appropriate mental health services. Here’s what PMETs typically do:
- Crisis Assessment: PMETs respond to calls or referrals involving individuals in crisis due to mental health issues, such as severe depression, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, psychosis, or other psychiatric emergencies.
- Immediate Response: PMETs aim to respond quickly to crisis situations, often working in collaboration with law enforcement or emergency services. They prioritize de-escalation and the safety of both the individual in crisis and the responders.
- Assessment and Evaluation: PMETs consist of mental health professionals, such as social workers, psychiatric nurses, or therapists, who conduct a thorough assessment of the individual’s mental health and well-being. They evaluate the person’s immediate needs and level of risk.
- Crisis Intervention: PMETs provide crisis intervention and emotional support to the individual. This may include active listening, offering coping strategies, and assisting with calming techniques.
- Safety Planning: PMETs work with the individual to develop a safety plan to minimize the risk of harm and provide guidance on how to seek help in the future.
- Referral to Appropriate Services: Based on their assessment, PMETs can connect the individual to appropriate mental health services, such as inpatient or outpatient treatment, crisis hotlines, therapy, or other resources.
- Coordination with Community Resources: PMETs often collaborate with local mental health agencies, hospitals, and community organizations to ensure individuals receive ongoing care and support.
- De-escalation and Avoiding Hospitalization: One of the key goals of PMETs is to prevent unnecessary hospitalization by providing effective crisis intervention and connecting individuals to less restrictive care options when appropriate.
- Training and Education: PMETs may also provide training and education to law enforcement and first responders on handling mental health crises with a compassionate and informed approach.
The specific structure and responsibilities of PMETs can vary from one location to another, but they are typically part of a broader effort to improve the mental health crisis response system and reduce the involvement of law enforcement in non-violent mental health emergencies. These teams play a crucial role in helping individuals in crisis access the care and support they need while minimizing the potential for harm or escalation.
Shervan K Shahhian
LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 