This conversation explores innovative alternatives to traditional law enforcement responses to mental health crises, focusing on collaborative models that embed mental health professionals within emergency response systems. These approaches aim to provide more effective, compassionate care while reducing the risk of escalation, unnecessary arrests, and use-of-force incidents. A key element of success lies in training mental health professionals to navigate high-stakes situations alongside—or in place of—law enforcement. By learning from communities already implementing these models, the conversation will highlight best practices, address implementation challenges, and reimagine crisis response in ways that prioritize dignity, health, and public trust.

Moderator: Charlamagne Tha God

Brandon Scott, Mayor of Baltimore, Maryland

Dr. Rheeda Walker, PhD, Professor of Psychology, Wayne State University 

Sheldon Smith-Gray, Life Skills Instructor, ROCA

Ernie Stevens, Author, Police Veteran, Mental Health Advocate