From Crisis to Care: An Overview of Bexar County, TX’s Mental Health Response Initiative

In October 2020, Bexar County, Texas, officials launched the Specialized Multidisciplinary Alternate Response Team (SMART) with a $1.5 million allocation. This team, comprising social workers, law enforcement officers, and paramedics, provides immediate, compassionate support to those people experiencing mental health crises. Through interviews and on-the-ground footage, this video showcases SMART's innovative approach to crisis intervention, emphasizing de-escalation, individualized care, and collaboration among professionals.