SAN MARCOS — The Hays County Mental Health Court (MHC) announced its sixth commencement ceremony, which will celebrate the achievements of 10 graduating participants, is the largest graduation class to date, according to a news release. The public is invited to attend the ceremony, which will take place from 3-4:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8, at the San Marcos Activity Center, 501 E. Hopkins St.
MHC serves individuals 17 years of age or older, who have a diagnosable mental health disorder and a pending charge in Hays County. All potential participants complete a structured referral process and are reviewed by the MHC team to ensure eligibility.
“The county has executed several contracts to provide counseling, case management, housing and transportation services to the participants,” said MHC Judge Elaine Brown. “Additional community-based resources are identified and utilized by the court to assist participants.”
The program offers 12 months of services for misdemeanors, with a possible three-month extension, and 18 months for felony offenses, also with a possible three-month extension.
Success in MHC is measured by personal growth, stability and self-sufficiency, read the news release. Participants work toward goals, such as returning to school, securing employment, establishing stable housing and strengthening family relationships.
“Many utilize services, such as residential treatment, sober living and peer support,” said Brown. “All these services work hand-in-hand to support their mental health, physical health and help them gain confidence in working towards their personalized goals.”
To complete the program, participants must stabilize their mental health, including consistent medication adherence, if prescribed, maintain sobriety from drugs and alcohol, achieve the goals in their individualized mental health and/or substance use treatment plan and follow all court orders, probation conditions and MHC program guidelines.
Every graduate who has completed the program has a unique story of perseverance and transformation.
“One individual we engaged with was incarcerated at the time we met with them. During their time in the program, they were able to get stabilized on medications, start therapy and work with a Benefits Navigator to apply for benefits,” said MHC administrator Kaimi Mattila. “This individual has been able to gain a deeper understanding of their mental illness and the importance of taking medications. Their mental health is much more stable.”
This commencement ceremony celebrates not only the graduates’ achievements, but also their dedication and commitment to rebuilding their lives. Each participant’s success reflects their individual goals and the support of a dedicated treatment team walking beside them throughout their journey, according to the release.
For additional details about the ceremony or the MHC program, contact the Hays County Mental Health Court Office at 512-757-0795 or by email at [email protected].