Adults, Children & Teens, Families

ARRIVE

Alternative Responses to Reduce Instances of Violence and Escalation (ARRIVE) connects New Jersey law enforcement with psychiatric emergency screeners. Screeners join officers at crisis situations to deescalate conflicts, respond quickly to behavioral health-related calls, and support safe outcomes. ARRIVE’s goal is to help individuals avoid unnecessary emergency room visits and develop a safe discharge plan.

Nurse sits outside comforting with sad patient in park.

We’re here to help with:

  • Depression

    Identifying and treating depression and other mood disorders.

  • Stress & Anxiety

    Identifying and treating anxiety disorders.

  • Mood Disorders

    Helping to identify and treat mood disorders, like bipolar disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

  • Trauma

    Providing support to navigate traumatic events and aid in the healing process. 

  • Substance Abuse 

    Offering support and treatment options for managing substance use and promoting recovery. 

  • Community Resources  

    Connecting you to important resources to guide you through your wellness journey. 

Eligibility

There are no eligibility requirements. Law enforcement contacts ARRIVE when there are behavioral health concerns for someone in the community.

What to Expect 

  • Reaching Out

    When law enforcement responds to a behavioral health emergency, ARRIVE is dispatched to the scene to de-escalate the situation and support a safe outcome. 

  • Arranging Services

    Law enforcement and the ARRIVE screener will meet with the individual in crisis to assess them and the situation. 

  • Moving Forward with Care

    If the person in crisis is considered a danger to themselves or others, law enforcement will transport them to the emergency room. If they are not, the ARRIVE screener will develop a safe, supportive discharge plan.

FAQ’s

What services are available for the families of those experiencing a mental health crisis? 

Families are provided with support services to help educate and cope with their specific situation. 

Does ARRIVE only respond to psychiatric emergencies? 

No, ARRIVE also responds to calls regarding substance use, domestic violence, and human trafficking.  

Who responds when ARRIVE is not available? 

Psychiatric Emergency Services are still available 24/7 to respond to calls from the police.  

Who is eligible for ARRIVE services? 

ARRIVE services are provided alongside law enforcement to those who are experiencing a mental health crisis. Services are at no cost to the individual and do not require enrollment. 

How do I qualify for ARRIVE services? 

Everyone qualifies for ARRIVE services, there are no eligibility requirements. Law enforcement contact ARRIVE when there are behavioral health concerns for someone in the community.  

What happens when the ARRIVE team responds to a behavioral health crisis? 

The ARRIVE team works alongside law enforcement to assess the situation, help de-escalate the crisis, and determine the safest next steps. Whenever possible, the goal is to connect individuals with appropriate behavioral health services and community resources while helping them remain safely in their community. 

Can ARRIVE help connect individuals to ongoing behavioral health services? 

Yes. When appropriate, the ARRIVE team helps connect individuals to outpatient counseling, crisis services, substance use treatment, community resources, and other supports based on their individual needs. The goal is to provide continued care and reduce the likelihood of future crises.

What if the person in crisis does not need to go to the emergency room? 

If the ARRIVE screener determines that the individual can safely remain in the community, they will work with the individual and, when appropriate, their family to develop a personalized safety plan and connect them with behavioral health services, community resources, and follow-up supports.