Improving Mental Health Care in Travis County Correctional Complex: A Look Inside Building 9

Sheriff Sally Hernandez of Travis County is pushing for new jail facilities, citing the dire conditions in the current women’s psych unit. The unit is overcrowded, understaffed, and lacks basic amenities, leading to a traumatic environment for inmates. Despite opposition from county officials and advocates, Hernandez remains committed to improving mental health care in the jail.

County Judge Andy Brown and others argue that investing in mental health care outside of jail would be more effective in reducing the number of incarcerated individuals. However, Hernandez believes that a new, more humane facility is necessary to provide proper care for those in need. The county is working on a mental health diversion center, but the debate continues on the best approach to address the issue.

While some, like Melissa Shearer, the county’s mental health public defender, believe in focusing on community-based healing centers, others, like TCSO counseling director Danny Smith, emphasize the need for comprehensive mental health services within the jail system. The ongoing discussion highlights the complex challenges of addressing mental health in the criminal justice system.

Despite differing opinions on the best approach, there is a shared goal of improving conditions for incarcerated individuals with mental health issues. The county’s mental health diversion plan is still in development, with a focus on providing a continuum of care and addressing organizational issues within the current mental health system. The debate underscores the importance of finding effective solutions to support those in need of mental health care in Travis County.