Tulsa launches ART 1 mental health response team to aid crisis interventions

The Tulsa Tribal Nations Relations Committee meeting on May 5, 2025, focused on the city's initiatives to improve mental health services and community support. A significant highlight was the introduction of Alternate Response Team 1 (Art 1), a specialized unit designed to address mental and behavioral health crises in Tulsa.

Art 1 is a collaborative effort that includes a firefighter paramedic trained in crisis intervention and a licensed counselor from Family and Children's Services. This team responds to emergency calls related to mental health, providing immediate support to individuals in crisis. The initiative aims to serve a wide range of ages, with a notable focus on individuals between 18 and 40 years old, and approximately 20% of their responses are to unhoused individuals.

The committee emphasized the importance of addressing social determinants of health, such as education and employment, to improve overall community well-being. Art 1 not only assesses immediate medical and psychological needs but also connects individuals to long-term resources and services. This includes follow-up care, where case managers reach out to individuals shortly after an emergency response to ensure their ongoing needs are met.

The meeting underscored Tulsa's proactive approach to mental health, positioning the city as a leader in addressing these critical issues compared to other cities nationwide. The committee expressed gratitude for community support in these initiatives, highlighting the importance of investing in local resources to foster a healthier future for all residents.