Behavioral Evaluation & Response Team

bear team logo

The BEAR Team is a pilot program that offers an alternative response to non-violent mental health 911 calls made to law enforcement and other first responders. BEAR is led by Director Kristin Ryan and is made up of six crisis counselors and social workers who are stationed at fire departments around the city in order to ensure a rapid response. 

The program will run as a pilot for the first year and is funded by $700,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funding. 

The BEAR Team will provide an intervention, assessment, and treatment recommendation with the goal of de-escalating a mental health crisis, providing immediate support services, and connecting people to appropriate community resources.