The Forsyth County Mental Health Court (FCMHC) was created to address the treatment needs of people with mental illness involved in the criminal justice system. The FCMHC Program is a court supervised treatment program for offenders who have been identified as having a mental illness and have agreed to participate in the program.

The FCMHC hears cases of persons with mental illness, and sometimes substance use disorders when accompanying a mental illness, that have been charged with a criminal offense. The FCMHC is a special type of court that links eligible defendants to treatment and support services that help them better manage their mental illness.

The goals of the FCMHC are to help offenders address their mental health needs and keep them out of the criminal justice system.

The type of treatment offered is dependent on each person’s individual needs. Some of the services that may be put in place include: individual and group therapy, psychiatric services, medication management, substance use counseling, transportation, housing, community support and case management.

Criteria for Mental Health Court

• Must be charged with a criminal offense.
• Must have a mental health diagnosis, mental health treatment history, or have symptoms/behaviors indicating in need of a mental health assessment and treatment.
• May also have a secondary substance use problem or diagnosis.
• Must be motivated and willing to actively participate within the FCMHC guidelines.
• Must agree to engage in the recommended mental health treatment.

Program requirements

1. Attend court twice a month for a minimum of eight (8) months.
2. Check-in with FCMHC Liaison during weeks not in court.
3. Be compliant with mental health treatment.
4. Obtain no new charges while in the program.
5. Refrain from the use of illegal or problem substances.

All charges pending in FCMHC will be dismissed once the participant graduates.

For more information, contact Keisha Springs at (336) 703-2619 or springkd@forsyth.cc.

FCMHC Protocols

MHC Handbook

Referral Form

Community Referral Form