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 fall of 2024, 15 MHC programs were operational under the oversight of the Administrative Office of the Courts. Behavioral Health Liaisons collaborate with local court systems and communities to extend resources to individuals in outlying counties, ensuring increased access to treatment and support services.


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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.​

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.

The Kentucky Judicial Commission on Mental Health's goal is to expand Mental Health Courts. Learn about the commission here.​​​