Residents share ideas for mental health reform with House task force

The House’s mental health task force heard from a dozen different organizations and advocates today during a meeting in Lansing held to gather input and ideas for improving mental health services in Michigan.

Panelists included Dr. Laura Hirshbein, professor and psychiatrist with University of Michigan Medicine; Dennis Bott, executive director of the Macomb Oakland Regional Center; Robert Lathers, CEO of Right Door for Hope, Recovery and Wellness; Peter Baroni of the Alliance for Safety & Justice; and Todd Culver, CEO of MARO. Members of the public were also invited to speak.

“It’s inspiring to hear from so many people who are passionate about helping others with mental health challenges,” said Rep. Hank Vaupel of Fowlerville, one of the task force’s co-chairs. “We’re learning a lot about the services currently being offered, the obstacles people are running into along the way, and ideas for what needs to change.”

State Rep. Klint Kesto of Commerce Township was equally impressed by the turnout.

“The information everyone has provided is very beneficial,” said Kesto, who serves as co-chair. “We’re delving deep into the issue so we can provide solutions that lead to better support for our veterans, increased attention to programs addressing substance abuse and more consistency in mental health services statewide.”

The next task force meeting will be Monday, Sept. 11, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Team Wellness Center, 6309 Mack Avenue in Detroit.

Anyone unable to attend a task force meeting can submit written suggestions regarding mental health services online at www.House.mi.gov/CARES until Sept. 30.