The Design of Community Supports for Individuals With Developmental Disabilities and Mental Health Needs
Joan B. Beasley, Ph.D., LMHC & Anne DesNoyers Hurley, Ph.D.

Individuals with developmental disability and mental health needs can be served in the community when there is a planned continuum of supports that accommodate chronic, acute, and emergency psychiatric needs. In addition to having appropriate supports, it is essential that there is a community system of collaborators that communicate and plan services. The use of the Crisis Prevention Plan is a critical element to avert situations that pose adverse outcomes for people with developmental disabilities.