1. (1) MCOT services shall be based on the following principles:

   1. (a) cultural competence;
   2. (b) strong community relationships;
   3. (c) the use of peer support;
   4. (d) the use of evidence-based practices;
   5. (e) building on existing foundations with an eye toward innovation;
   6. (f) utilization of an integrated system of care;
   7. (g) outreach to students through school-based clinics;

   8. (h) trauma informed care;

      1. (i) de-escalation;
   9. (j) timely access to supports and services;

   10. (k) providing services in the least restrictive manner possible;

       1. (l) strength-based treatment plans;
   11. (m) prioritizing helping individuals and families regain a sense of control and safety after being involved in a mental health crisis; and

   12. (n) embedding the following elements of the zero suicide framework for suicide care:

       1. (i) lead the crisis response system in creating a wide culture change committed to reducing suicides;
       2. (ii) train a competent, confident, and caring workforce;
       3. (iii) identify individuals with suicide risk through comprehensive screening and assessment;
       4. (iv) engage an individual who is at-risk of suicide using a suicide care management plan;
       5. (v) treat suicidal thoughts and behaviors directly using evidence-based treatment;
       6. (vi) transition an individual through care with a warm hand off and supportive contact; and
       7. (vii) improve policy and procedure through continuous quality improvement.

2. (2) An MCOT shall be capable of serving the following individuals in the context of a crisis:

   1. (a) children, adolescents, adults, and older adults;

   2. (b) individuals with co-occurring conditions including:

      1. (i) mental health conditions;
      2. (ii) substance use disorders;
      3. (iii) medical needs;
      4. (iv) intellectual and developmental disabilities;
      5. (v) physical disabilities;
      6. (vi) traumatic brain injuries; and
      7. (vii) dementia and related neurological conditions;
   3. (c) individuals demonstrating aggressive behavior;
   4. (d) individuals who are uninsured or unable to pay for services; and
   5. (e) individuals who may lack Utah residency or legal immigration status.
3. (3) An MCOT shall encourage each modality of service within the crisis response system to incorporate peer support into the services they provide, when clinically appropriate.

KEY: mobile crisis outreach team, MCOT standards, statewide crisis response standards

Date of Last Change: October 9, 2025

Notice of Continuation: November 22, 2023

Authorizing, and Implemented or Interpreted Law: 26B-5-112(5); 26B-5-112.5(5); 26B-5-609(2); 26B-5-609(3)