Assessment Center Now Open

The Assessment Center provides forensic evaluation and treatment services for the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and jail diversion program clients (Pretrial Services, JUST Program, Drug Court, and Family Treatment Court). Services have begun and will expand in July 2013 to include:

• comprehensive clinical assessments (including specialized substance abuse assessments, with drug testing)
• parenting capacity assessments
• competency assessments

Treatment services will focus on initial engagement in evidenced-based therapies while the client is referred as needed to community treatment programs (through Western Highlands). Group treatment approaches will include:

• Seeking Safety (trauma)
• Relapse Prevention
• Thinking for a Change
• Motivational Enhancement
• Computer-based Training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

The Assessment Center will offer open access scheduling, which provides flexible, timely appointments, so that clients may participate more easily, and staff and the Court receive reports with a very quick turn-around time.

Center staff also will be available to respond to urgent requests by HHS, Judges, Magistrates, the Detention Facility, Public Defender or District Attorney for immediate evaluation or crisis intervention with clients. The program is funded by Buncombe County and operated via contract by RHA Health Services, Inc.

What Are the Expected Results?
• Reduced court-time to process cases
• More efficient use of case management time
• Reduced length of stay out of home, including foster care
• Better outcomes for clients who are less compliant

Location
The Assessment Center is located at 205 College Street. Parking is available in the County Parking Garage across the Street, for a fee. The Office is located within steps of the Courthouse and Detention Facility, as well as HHS Social Work offices.

Hours
9:00 – 5:00, Monday – Friday, except County holidays

How to Contact
Anna White
Email: anna.white@buncombecounty.org