Cobb County Mental Health Court (MHC) celebrated its 10th anniversary, recognizing a decade of dedication to providing accountability and treatment to individuals with mental health diagnoses who have become entangled in the criminal justice system. The event brought together judges, commissioners, court employees, community stakeholders, and supporters.
Achievements: The Mental Health Court has achieved substantial progress over the past decade, transforming the lives of its graduates, enriching their families, and enhancing community safety and well-being. It focuses on addressing the intersection of mental illness and the criminal justice system, aiming to provide appropriate treatment and court oversight rather than incarceration for individuals with mental health conditions.
Keynote Speaker: Neill Blake, Programs Director and past President of the National Association of Mental Illness (NAMI) Cobb, delivered the keynote address. She highlighted the stigma associated with mental illness and the importance of using “people-first” language to eliminate misconceptions and promote understanding. She emphasized that individuals should not be defined by their diagnosis but recognized as individuals diagnosed with an illness.
Participant Perspective: Angela Cain, a former participant and graduate of Cobb MHC, shared her personal journey before and after participating in the program. She encouraged current participants to remain focused, continue their efforts, and trust the program’s effectiveness based on her own positive experience.
County Recognition: JoAnn K. Birrell, District 3 County Commissioner, presented the Cobb MHC with an official County Proclamation, acknowledging its valuable work and achievements in helping court-involved citizens manage mental health challenges and rebuild their lives. Commissioner Birrell praised the program’s success and the vision of Judge Mary Staley, who initiated the Mental Health Court in 2013, as well as Judge Ann Harris, who has continued the program’s success.
Program Overview: The Cobb County Mental Health Court was launched to improve mental health, promote self-sufficiency, reduce recidivism, and provide cost-effective alternatives to incarceration and hospitalization. It seeks to enhance cooperation between the mental health and criminal justice systems, holding participants accountable while helping them achieve stability and become successful community members.
Recognition: The program has been recognized as a Model Court in Georgia by the Council of Accountability Court Judges and has served as a mentor court to other mental health courts in the state. It is a voluntary, treatment-based program for individuals with documented severe and persistent mental health diagnoses, partnering with Highland Rivers Behavioral Health to provide comprehensive treatment services.
The celebration also featured a Mental Health Resource Fair, offering valuable information, guidance, and resources for individuals and families dealing with mental health issues. The event served as a testament to the positive impact of the Mental Health Court on participants and the community, with one participant expressing that the program had “saved my life.”
