Mental Health
Debbie is dedicated to safeguarding our mental health and well-being, actively working to secure a mentally healthy environment. She strives to contribute to our community through her impactful efforts for our children and future generations. Debbie’s work includes:
Mental Health Specialty Court Contracts/ARPA
Debbie secured approval for contracts in Commissioners Court to expand mental health services in the Hays County Court at Law Mental Health Speciality Courts program. The contracts involve counseling services with various providers, addressing the therapeutic needs and program requirements for successful graduation. Additionally, a contract will cover the cost of sober living for men in need, offering flexibility and 24/7 support. These agreements aim to establish a referral system, allowing hays County to cover costs to those without insurance or means to pay.
Mental Health Specialty Program
Debbie proposed and received approval from the Hays County Commissioners Court for a $25,000 contracts to provide mental health services to adults in the County Court at Law Mental Health Specialty program. Services provided will include case management, frequent psychiatry appointments, nursing care, and counseling to individuals dealing with severe mental health, substance use, and social issues. The funding for these services come from the American Rescue plan Act.
Mental Health Specialty Court
Debbie proposed and successfully gained approval for the creation of a Mental Health Specialty Court. This court provides an alternative to jail for individuals whose arrests involve mental health issues. The court aims to manage treatment, offer supervision, and provide support to reduce involvement in the criminal justice system. The court is dedicated to individuals with mental illness, substance abuse, intellectual disabilities who are overrepresented in the criminal justice system, with the goal of decreasing the jail population. The court offers both pre- and post- adjudication programs to provide support and treatment, aiming to prevent individuals from entering or cycling through the criminal justice system.