PERT
The Psychiatric Emergency Response Team (PERT) provides compassionate crisis intervention and linkage services to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. The mission of PERT is to provide high-quality crisis response services to resolve the crisis and provide linkage to the most appropriate services.
PERT teams consist of a licensed mental health professional paired with a specially trained law enforcement officer. Together as a team, they respond on-scene to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis who have come to the attention of law enforcement. The first goal of PERT is to offer assurance of safety for everyone involved so that the individual’s crisis can be addressed. PERT Clinicians take the lead in conducting a mental health assessment to clarify the nature of the crisis. PERT then helps the individual connect to care by providing a “warm hand off” to the most appropriate resources.
PERT is funded by the County of San Diego – Behavioral Health Services to provide 70 teams partnered with the 11 municipal law enforcement departments throughout San Diego County. The program is funded by the County of San Diego, HHSA, Behavioral Health Services.
Eligibility Criteria
- PERT services are available to any individual (children, adolescents, adults), family member or community member who is concerned enough to call law enforcement or 911 for assistance to ensure well-being.
- PERT does not charge for services.
How to Refer
Referrals to PERT are made through the 911 dispatch operator.
PERT
Career Opportunities At PERT
CRF is a friendly, rewarding, and dynamic place to work. We believe in teamwork and collaboration throughout our organization. We are committed to our staff and their ability to learn and grow in their profession while serving others in our community.