Our Mobile Crisis Unit helps youth in need

The Family Counseling Center is highlighting the work of its Mobile Crisis Unit, a service provided to Fulton County schools when children are expressing moments of extreme crisis – from suicidal thoughts to aggressive behavior that puts either the child or others at risk.

Staff from The Family Counseling Center’s Children & Family Services program work with the child, the school staff, and their parents. The Mobile Crisis team helps to identify why the child is experiencing a crisis, if there have been similar incidents, whether or not there is a way to de-escalate the behavior, if the team member and child can create a safety plan or if the child needs medical support. In many cases, the Mobile Crisis team member can work with the child, avoiding hospitalization.

Jeremy Purtell, Mobile Crisis Counselor, joined The Family Counseling Center in September. Purtell is a graduate of SUNY Oneonta and has over 20 years experience in behavioral health. He began his career as a teacher working with at-risk youth and most recently, worked for Liberty ARC where he held roles as behaviorist, Family Support Manager, and Without Walls Habilitation Coordinator.

“We are exceedingly impressed by the experience and quality of care Jeremy has shown,” said Sheila Wood, Children & Family Services Director. “Fulton County schools have seen an increase in crisis behaviors from children this year and our Mobile Crisis Unit is a vital service – helping the children and their families. Jeremy works closely with our Family and Youth Peer Advocates. The coordinated approach to care helps inform each situation, putting the child’s safety and mental health first.”