Crisis Response

TP52 - Living Room Crisis Diversion Program

Tuesday, May 2, 2023

1:30 PM – 2:00 PM

Location: South Exhibit Hall HJK, Level 2, LACC

Track Sponsored By:

Poster Presenter(s)

Jennifer Knauss, MA (she/her/hers)

Regional Director
Rehabilitation Support Services
Schenectady, New York
Brandy VanEarden, LMHC (she/her/hers)

Regional Director
Rehabilitation Support Services, Inc.
Albany, New York

The Living Room provides an innovative alternative to the emergency department for behavioral health crises. The setting is designed to resemble a living room in a home and is staffed by a licensed clinician, care manager and peer specialist. There have been over 3,500 visits since 2018, saving over $2.3 million dollars in diverting emergency room visits.

Learning Objectives:

Identify the elements and processes that make an alternative to the emergency department a more effective solution to mental health crises.
Analyze how a crisis diversion program can offer person-centered planning to reduce distress level and allow the individual to safely remain in the community.
Examine how the Living Room Model has led to a cost savings of $2.3 million and can be replicated in various communities and contracted with payers.
Explore how to promote a new and alternative form of care.