(KXII) – First responders get all kinds of calls. Some situations they’re trained to handle on their own, others require an extra level of care.
That’s where Texoma Community Center’s co-responders program comes in.
“We partner qualified mental health professionals and we put them in the vehicle or at the law enforcement office and they go out on any crisis calls that are suicide, homicide, psychosis risk related,” said Tori Dyess, who directs the program.
Dyess also responds to calls herself. She says the job is dynamic — she works side by side with law enforcement, giving them the support they need.
“No days are the same, everything is very unpredictable,” Dyess said.
When a call comes in, Dyess goes out with the officer. When they arrive at the scene of someone in crisis, she builds trust.
“They really disclose a lot more and open up a lot more when somebody in plain clothing arrives on scene. They’re usually a lot more willing to share information,” Dyess said.
She said the work isn’t always easy.
“There are times where you really want to help somebody but maybe there’s just not a resource in this area or maybe they’re not ready for change but it’s a very rewarding job,” Dyess said.
Dyess says it’s all worth it.
“You get to see people and hear their stories and they really let us in on sometimes the most vulnerable or the worst day of their lives and it’s definitely a privilege,” Dyess said.
The program currently partners with the Grayson and Fannin county sheriffs offices, Sherman police and Denison police. They’re looking to expand the program with more co-responders. If you’re interested, apply here.
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