Mental Health Court

​​​​​​Mental Health Court 

​​Kentucky’s Mental Health Courts (MHC) are dedicated to improving the well-being of justice-involved individuals with behavioral health issues, including mental illness, substance use disorder, and intellectual disabilities. Rather than focusing on incarceration, MHC programs connect individuals to community-based treatment and support, offering a pathway toward recovery while prioritizing public safety.

In the summer of 2026, 17 MHC programs were operational under the oversight of the Administrative Office of the Courts.​

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​Participants in MHC programs receive comprehensive services, including intensive case management, collaboration with behavioral health providers and multidisciplinary team members, frequent and random drug screening (when appropriate) and support services for housing, employment and other essential needs.​
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Through these coordinated efforts, Kentucky’s Mental Health Courts provide individuals with a supportive network that helps them achieve stability and improve their quality of life.