By CHRISTIAN MAITRE
Waltham Times Contributing Writer
The Police Department recently hired two more mental health professionals, after an increase in calls involving drug overdoses and mental health issues.
Mayor Jeannette McCarthy and the City Council supported initial funding for the new positions; Police Chief Kevin O’Connell said the positions are funded through taxes.
“The need for it is really quite large,” said Ward 7 Councilor Paul Katz, who sits on the Public Safety and Public Works Committee and regularly listens to public safety scanners.
The Police Department hired Emily Marini and Julie Flateau in October of this year. They joined mental health professional Laura Keating, who was hired in 2022.
The clinicians were hired as a part of a jail diversion program started by the Edinburg Center. The Bedford-based nonprofit mental health organization created the project to offer alternatives to arrest for individuals struggling with mental health issues and other hardships.
In an email to The Times, O’Connell said the department started the partnership with the Edinburg Center in 2004.
Counselors participate in ride-alongs with officers and actively listen to calls at the station to determine if they’re needed.
While on the scene, they often assist police with crisis management by calming individuals experiencing mental health crises. Flateau said the police seek the counselor’s opinions on de-escalating these situations.
The counselors also evaluate whether people need higher-level care and provide referrals to resources for assistance with financial problems, mental health, addiction and other issues.
At the station, they conduct follow-up meetings with those in need. Clinicians also participate in various task force meetings, where they discuss how to handle issues such as homelessness, substance abuse and property-related issues like hoarding.
At least one counselor is always working at the station. Keating works Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Flateau and Marini have rotating shifts throughout the week and weekend.
Clinicians also provide services outside of the police station. “Every Friday we’re in one of the [library’s] study rooms,” said Keating. Clinicians have social worker drop-in hours at Waltham Public Library on Fridays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Ultimately, Flateau said the program draws its value from its versatility.
O’Connell agreed.
“The challenges of the 21st century require us to adapt and become smarter about the way in which we police. Working toward long-term solutions and addressing root causes, not merely symptoms, is a major step in that direction,” said O’Connell.
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