Miami Conference to Focus on Progress Made Possible at the Intersection of Behavioral Health and Criminal Justice When Communities Work Together

MIAMI, FLORIDA, September 21, 2017 (Newswire.com) - ​​As communities across the nation struggle to divert individuals with behavioral health challenges from jails and emergency rooms and into the help they really need, there are inspiring examples that show progress made possible.

The Institute for Behavioral Healthcare Improvement (IBHI) with support from the Mental Health Foundation, is proud to showcase the remarkable progress that can be achieved when community leaders and other stakeholders work together to better coordinate efforts and integrate programs. IBHI’s second national conference, Progress Made Possible: Better Outcomes at the Intersection of Behavioral Health and Criminal Justice, will be held in Miami, Florida, December 3-5, 2017.

“Relief for jail overcrowding, better outcomes for individuals suffering with behavioral health and substance abuse conditions, and improvements in the community’s quality of life are just some of the benefits from a shared focus on evidence based practices,” said Stuart Buttlaire, President of the IBHI Board of Directors.

The program will feature the Hon. Steven Leifman, Associate Administrative Judge, Miami-Dade County, who has earned national recognition for his tireless reform work to bring people together to improve Florida’s criminal justice and behavioral health systems. His keynote address and other program presentations will highlight Miami’s story. It is an example of what is possible with a city’s dedication and hard work to improve conditions and help people. The conference will also provide opportunities for participants to tour facilities and ride-along with Crisis Intervention Teams.

“We can learn so much from each other and this conference will provide the opportunity for some candid conversation and perspective from people who are addressing these difficult issues on the front lines every day,” said Judge Leifman. “I hope people from across the country will join us and help make a stronger impact.”

The program is targeted at public officials, public safety leaders, behavioral health advocates and providers. Sessions covering a range of Best Practice experiences from communities across the country will also be featured including presentations from representatives of the National Association of Counties and the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

IBHI is a not-for-profit organization focused on promoting the use of evidence-based practices to improve outcomes for people, families and communities facing the challenges of behavioral health problems. The Mental Health Foundation is also a not-for-profit organization with a mission to support best practices that help end stigma associated with behavioral health.

For full information and registration visit www.ibhi.net or www.mentalhealthfoundation.net.

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Source: IBHI