Policy, Design, and Critical Reflections on Behavioral Health Crisis Services for People Experiencing Homelessness

Abstract

People experiencing homelessness in crisis have unique structural vulnerabilities and social needs, most importantly lack of housing. Ideal crisis services for people experiencing homelessness must safeguard against criminalization and displacement during periods of crisis, prioritize equity, and provide housing interventions alongside mental health treatment at every stage in the crisis continuum. By outlining how to tailor crisis system financing and accountability, service component and capacity, and clinical best practices, the authors aim to provide hope and guidance for communities aiming to create an ideal crisis system for people experiencing homelessness.

Keywords: Behavioral health; Crisis; Homeless; Mental health; Policy.