Emergency Services Meets With International Consulates

Tasha Ferguson, LMHC and Clinical Director of the BMC Emergency Services Program, participated in a presentation on managing individuals experiencing behavioral health crisis.  The meeting was hosted by the Consulate General of Canada, Boston, and Tasha was invited by the Canadian Consular staff at the recommendation of DMH.  Individuals in attendance included representatives from the Consulate Generals of Italy, Germany, Turkey, Mexico, Haiti, Brazil, Spain and Canada.

The event included a panel discussion with BEST, DMH, NAMI, and the American Red Cross to discuss a wide range of topics including: applicable Massachusetts laws and statues regarding the treatment of individuals in mental health crisis, utilization of Emergency Services Programs, behavioral health related relief efforts by the American Red Cross following a critical incident, and supportive programs available through NAMI.  Specific to Emergency Services, the discussion revolved around how consulate staff can recognize signs of a potential behavioral health crisis, and the role BEST can play in both providing consultation to staff as well as providing a face-to-face intervention for the individual in need. Consulate staff provided examples of previous interactions with the public that may have benefitted from an Emergency Services response, which allowed for further in depth discussion of both considerations around safety and patient rights.