The Provincial Mental Health Diversion Program (PMHDP) is a partnership between Recovery Alberta (RA) and Alberta Justice, specifically the Alberta Crown Prosecution Service (ACPS). The PMHDP was established to provide alternative pathways for individuals who have suspected or diagnosed mental health and/or concurrent disorders and are charged with criminal minor offenses.Recovery Alberta’s Provincial Mental Health Diversion Program (PMHDP) is a court-connected mental health service for eligible individuals whose criminal charges may be related to mental health and/or addiction concerns. Referrals are made by the Alberta Crown Prosecution Service to participating Mental Health Diversion sites across Alberta.
Following referral, clinicians complete a suitability assessment and identify treatment, service, and risk-related needs. The program provides short-term clinical intervention, care coordination, and connection to community-based supports, which may include mental health, addiction, primary care, housing, income, social, and other recovery-oriented services.
The average program length is approximately 3 months for adults and 4 months for youth, based on the court-adjournment period. Participants work on mutually agreed-upon goals during that time. When those goals are successfully completed, the referred charges are withdrawn at their final court date.
When an individual is assessed as not eligible for the program, recommendations may still be provided regarding appropriate mental health, addiction, and community-based supports.
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