Crisis Intervention of Houston, Inc. Spring Branch ISD SHAC Committee November 19, 2009

Agenda Crisis Intervention 101 – Shari Koziol, ED Overview of Teen calls Partner Hotlines Wrap Up and Questions

Mission To help people in crisis.

Background and History Since 1970, Crisis Intervention of Houston has served more than 2 million people in crisis. CIH provides 24-hour, 7 days a week service: Crisis Hotline Including: CHET(Crisis Hotline Emergency Transportation, SOS(Survivors of Suicide self help groups), Crisis Response Teams, and training Operating budget of $1.1 million A United Way agency Certification through AAS Region 6 Center for National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Top 5 Reasons People Call 1.Relationship conflicts and problems 2.Hunger, need for shelter, financial aid and employment 3.Mental health crises 4.Drugs and alcohol 5.Depression and suicide

Number of Calls Total calls: 28% increase in number of calls from 2007 to 2008 Early statistics suggest that 2009 continue to increase

Lines Called Lines used: –Teen Line & Teen Link –Crisis Intervention Hotline –FBISD –NSPL Data demonstrates: –Presence of a teen line very important –High priority for call counselors to be sensitive to teen issues

Assumptions: Typical caller… Teens use the caller lines for: –Crisis intervention –Advice –Includes Adult calls –Support –Information –Companionship “just need to talk…”

Assumptions: Use of Call Lines… Teens decide to use the caller lines for: –Anonymity –Assurance of response –Trustworthiness of staff –Belief that call staff are the best/only option for service at that time –Safe, reliable prevention or intervention in perceived or actual crisis –Pranks/Hang ups indicate testing and approach/avoid nature of teens. –Hang ups are the “dress rehearsal” as thoughts organize for future call

Reason for service The caller lines directed toward young callers: –Meet an unmet need –Prevent dire situations –Intervene in crises –Direct teens to more comprehensive services, if needed

Hotline Partnerships Texas Southern University La Rosa Family Services Houston Coalition for the Homeless Fort Bend ISD Teen Talk Line Houston Job HotLine Crisis Hotline of Galveston – Dec. 1

Reporting and pricing: Quarterly Reporting includes: 1.Demographics of caller 2.Time of Day 3.Reasons for call 4.Referrals given Pricing dependant on: 1.24/7 365 days a year including summer and holidays 2.Population to be served