Transitional mental health homes planned in Colorado
(SOUTHERN COLORADO) — Transitional mental health homes are in the works for Colorado Springs and Pueblo, following guidelines established by a house bill passed in 2022.
According to the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS), Mental Health Transitional Living (MHTL) Homes, established by HB22-1303, are part of a new program that will provide an added layer of services within CDHS’ behavioral health continuum of care.
The initial pilot admissions process will focus solely on those who can most safely transition into mental health homes, excluding those considered a higher risk, such as those with a recent history of escaping from other treatment facilities, those with any recent assaultive behaviors, those with behaviors that have required restraints or a locked facility, as well as registered sex offenders.
“These homes will be used as a transition to a less restrictive setting for individuals with severe mental health conditions. Clients may stay as long as necessary for stabilization, with the ultimate goal of successfully reintegrating clients into the community,” CDHS said in a press release. “The focus is to provide continued support with social and life skills development and assistance with other daily life activities based on the client’s individual needs.”
The homes provide different levels of care depending on individual needs, including Transitional Living, which is intended for those almost ready to live independently, and Supported Therapeutic Transitional Living, which is intended for patients needing a higher level of care.
One such home is already operating in Northglenn, and more than a dozen additional homes are planned in Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Westminster, Lakewood, and Denver.
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