Glossary

Refers to court-ordered mental health care for adults with a mental disorder as defined in A.R.S §36-501 who are unable or unwilling to seek treatment voluntarily and who meet legal criteria for intervention, such as being a danger to themselves or others, persistently or acutely disabled, or gravely disabled.

This process typically includes:

• Court-ordered evaluation
• Court-ordered treatment (COT)

Treatment may involve inpatient hospitalization, outpatient services, or both—with the goal of stabilizing the individual, supporting recovery, and ensuring safety.

Arizona’s Medicaid-integrated health plan. It combines physical health services, behavioral health services, and pharmacy benefits into one comprehensive managed care plan. ACC serves adults and children who qualify for Medicaid, providing coordinated, whole-person care to improve health outcomes and simplify the healthcare experience.

Note: The Complete Care program applies only to individuals with a General Mental Health/Substance Use Disorder (GMH/SU). Individuals with an SMI (Serious Mental Illness) diagnosis continue to be served by their assigned Regional Behavioral Health Authority (RBHA).

A condition in which a person is unaware of their illness or disability. In behavioral health, this often affects people with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

• This is a symptom of the disease
• It is not denial—it is caused by changes in the brain.
• Affects ~40–50% of those with schizophrenia and ~30–40% of those with bipolar disorder.

The Arizona Administrative Code is the official compilation of all rules and regulations adopted by Arizona’s state administrative agencies. These rules carry the force of law and provide the detailed procedures and requirements needed to implement the statutes passed by the Arizona Legislature.

Key Features:

• Rules are created by state agencies to interpret or enforce laws
• Organized into Titles by subject area (e.g., Title 9: Health Services)
• Maintained and published by the Arizona Secretary of State
• Regularly updated to reflect new or amended regulations

In Behavioral Health:

The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) uses the AAC—especially Title 9, Chapter 20—to define operational standards for:

• Licensing behavioral health facilities
• Staff qualifications and training
• Patient rights and safety protocols
• Involuntary treatment and grievance processes

The Arizona Center for Disability Law (ACDL) is a nonprofit, public interest law firm that protects and advocates for the legal rights of individuals with disabilities throughout Arizona.

Key Features:

• Federally designated Protection and Advocacy (P&A) system for Arizona
• Provides free legal services to individuals with disabilities when legal problems relate to their disability
• Advocates for systemic change to ensure equal access and nondiscrimination

Areas of Focus:

• Special education and school discipline
• Access to community-based services and supports
• Employment discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Housing and public accommodations
• Abuse, neglect, and rights protection in institutions and facilities
• Access to mental health and medical care

The state agency responsible for overseeing public health, including behavioral health licensure and monitoring.

Arizona’s Medicaid program provides health coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families. AHCCCS delivers care through managed plans and includes:

• Physical health
• Behavioral health
• Long-term care
• Children’s services

It oversees federal and state funds for:

• Title 19 (Medicaid)
• Title 21 (CHIP/KidsCare)
• Substance Use Block Grant
• Arizona Long Term Care Services (ALTCS)
• State-only funds (primarily for the SMI population)

A Medicaid program offering long-term care services for Arizona residents who are elderly, physically disabled, or developmentally disabled and require a nursing home level of care. Services include:

• In-home care
• Assisted living
• Nursing facilities
• Behavioral health support
• Daily living assistance

Arizona’s only publicly operated psychiatric hospital is located on a 93-acre campus in Phoenix. ASH includes:

1. Civil Hospital

• Serves civilly committed individuals from Maricopa County.
• Civil bed census capped at 55 per Arnold v. Sarn for Maricopa County.
• 116 beds + 1 medical bed total.

2. Forensic Hospital

• Serves individuals involved with the criminal justice system, including those found Guilty Except Insane (GEI) or undergoing competency restoration.
• Average daily census (FY2021): 113 patients.

3. Arizona Community Protection and Treatment Center (ACPTC)

• Treats individuals classified as Sexually Violent Persons (SVPs).
• 100-bed facility with ~95% occupancy.

ASH provides psychiatric care, medication management, therapy, and rehabilitation services with the goal of reintegration into the community when possible.

A landmark class-action was lawsuit filed in 1981 in Arizona on behalf of adults with Serious Mental Illness (SMI) in Maricopa County. The suit argued that the state failed to meet its legal obligations to provide a comprehensive, community-based mental health system under A.R.S. Title 36, Chapter 5.

Outcome:

• The court ruled in favor of the plaintiffs.
• A Settlement Agreement finalized in 2014 established:
• Expansion of supportive housing
• Access to ACT teams, crisis services, and peer support
• Long-term oversight to ensure compliance

Arnold v. Sarn continues to shape Arizona’s behavioral health policies and funding today.

A multidisciplinary, team-based approach for individuals with Serious Mental Illness (SMI). ACT teams provide 24/7 support to help clients maintain stability and independence. Services include:

• Medication management
• Therapy
• Housing and employment assistance
• Daily living support

ACT reduces hospitalizations and promotes recovery by meeting clients in the community where they live.

A court-ordered outpatient program for individuals with SMI who have difficulty engaging in voluntary care. AOT:

• Ensures services like case management, therapy, and medication are received
• Aims to prevent hospitalizations, incarceration, and homelessness
• Encourages recovery and stability in the least restrictive setting

A broad term referring to mental health and substance use services and systems.

A professional who assists individuals with mental health or substance use challenges by:

• Coordinating services
• Developing treatment plans
• Connecting clients to housing, employment, medical, and behavioral health resources
• Monitoring progress and advocating for client needs

A trained professional providing direct care and support to clients receiving behavioral health services. BHTs:

• Implement treatment plans under clinical supervision
• Monitor client behavior
• Facilitate therapeutic activities
• Work in residential, outpatient, hospital, and crisis settings

Arizona’s largest and longest-serving emergency shelter provider. CASS serves individuals and families experiencing homelessness with housing and support services.

Programs & Facilities:

• Adult Shelter (Phoenix): 600-bed 24/7 shelter with case management and housing resources
• Vista Colina Family Shelter: Shelter for 120–150 individuals, focused on families with children
• The Haven (North Phoenix): 170-bed senior shelter for individuals 55+
• Norton and Ramsey Social Justice Empowerment Center (Glendale): Resource hub with case management, hygiene services, and homelessness prevention hotline

CASS has served over 175,000 individuals since 1984 and continues to expand its services for long-term housing stability.

A legal process where the court orders treatment for individuals with a mental disorder under A.R.S. §36-501 who meet criteria such as:

• Danger to self or others
• Persistently or acutely disabled
• Gravely disabled

The process may involve court-ordered evaluation and treatment, including inpatient or outpatient care. It ensures individuals receive care while preserving safety and legal rights.

A healthcare professional who manages and coordinates care for patients, especially in behavioral health settings. Responsibilities include:

• Developing individualized care plans
• Monitoring patient progress
• Serving as liaison among patients, families, and care teams
• Connecting clients to community resources
• Maintaining accurate and compliant documentation

Provides housing and support services that enable individuals with SMI, developmental disabilities, or substance use disorders to live independently in community settings. Services include:

• Life skills training
• Case management
• Employment support
• Linkages to medical and behavioral health care

CLP promotes autonomy, recovery, and community integration.

A landmark federal law was signed by President John F. Kennedy. The Act funded the development of local mental health centers to replace institutional care. Goals included:

• Providing outpatient care close to home
• Offering crisis services, prevention, and rehabilitation
• Supporting independent living for individuals with mental illness

This Act laid the foundation for today’s community-based behavioral health system.

Without treatment, individuals with SMI may face:

• Worsening psychiatric symptoms
• Homelessness and job loss
• Frequent hospitalization
• Risk of self-harm or harm to others
• Incarceration or legal problems
• Physical health deterioration
• Breakdown of social and family relationships

Timely, effective treatment supports recovery, safety, and long-term stability.

A person appointed by a court to manage the financial affairs and property of an individual who is unable to do so due to:

• Mental illness
• Mental deficiency or disorder
• Physical illness or disability
• Chronic use of drugs or intoxication
• Confinement, detention by a foreign power, or disappearance

The conservator acts in the individual’s best interest under court supervision.

These are items prohibited in inpatient or secure mental health facilities due to safety risks.

Examples:

• Sharp objects (razors, scissors, knives)
• Belts, shoelaces, or drawstrings
• Glass items or mirrors
• Unauthorized medications
• Wires, cords, or ropes
• Weapons or objects that can be weaponized
• Alcohol or drugs
• Devices with cameras or recording capabilities (facility-dependent)

Facilities maintain lists of contraband to ensure safety for all patients and staff.

A legal process is initiated when an individual, suspected of having a mental disorder, may meet criteria under A.R.S. §36-501 for involuntary treatment. The process involves:

1. Admission to an Evaluation Facility
The person is temporarily detained and admitted to an inpatient facility.

2. Observation Period
Up to 72 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) for clinical evaluation.

3. Clinical Assessments

• Psychiatric evaluation by a licensed provider
• Medical examination to rule out physical causes
• Functional and social assessment

4. Review of Records
Includes medical, psychiatric, and legal history, plus family input (when appropriate).

5. Legal Criteria Assessed

• Danger to self (DTS)
• Danger to others (DTO)
• Persistently or acutely disabled (PAD)
• Gravely disabled

6. Report to the Court
A written report is submitted to the court with a recommendation for or against Court-Ordered Treatment (COT), and the appropriate level of care.

7. Possible Court Hearing
If COT is recommended, a hearing is held for judicial determination based on the evaluation.

A legal mandate requiring individuals with a mental disorder (as defined in A.R.S. §36-501) to participate in psychiatric treatment for up to 365 days. Treatment is ordered when the court finds the person meets criteria for involuntary care.

Treatment Types:

• Outpatient Treatment
• Inpatient Treatment
• Combined Inpatient and Outpatient

Inpatient Time Limits:

• Up to 90 days if found a danger to self
• Up to 180 days if found persistently or acutely disabled or danger to others
• Up to 365 days if found gravely disabled

Treatment includes therapy, medication, case management, and support services, aiming for recovery and transition to voluntary care.

A specialized training program for law enforcement and first responders. CIT helps officers:

• Identify and respond to individuals in mental health crises
• Use de-escalation techniques
• Divert individuals to treatment rather than arrest
• Collaborate with mental health professionals and services

CIT improves safety and outcomes during behavioral health crises.

Provide immediate intervention for individuals experiencing acute behavioral health crises, such as:

• Suicidal thoughts
• Severe anxiety or depression
• Psychosis
• Extreme emotional distress

Common Services:

• 24/7 crisis hotlines
• Mobile crisis teams
• Walk-in crisis centers
• Crisis stabilization units
• Coordination with EMS or law enforcement

These services aim to stabilize the person quickly, reduce hospitalization, and connect them to longer-term care.

Dual Special Needs Plan — A type of Medicare Advantage plan that coordinates care for individuals eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid.

Disorder

The federal agency overseeing health, welfare, and public health programs, including Medicaid and mental health initiatives.

A group of chronic conditions that originate before age 22 and significantly impair daily functioning. DDs can affect:

• Learning
• Behavior
• Communication
• Mobility
• Independent living

Common Types:

• Intellectual Disability
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Cerebral Palsy
• Epilepsy
• Down Syndrome
• Fragile X Syndrome
• Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)

A Social Security benefit for adults who became disabled before age 22. DAC recipients qualify under the work record of a parent who is:

• Deceased
• Retired
• Receiving Social Security disability benefits

Key Features:

• No need for the adult child to have worked
• Treated similarly to SSDI
• Often used for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities or early-onset SMI

A division within Arizona’s Department of Economic Security (DES) providing support to children and adults with developmental disabilities.

Eligibility Conditions:

• Intellectual Disability
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Cerebral Palsy
• Epilepsy
• Other conditions that originate before age 18 and cause substantial functional limitations

Services Include:

• Habilitation
• Employment support
• Respite care
• Therapies
• In-home and residential support
• Person-centered care planning

DDD collaborates with families, providers, and community organizations to support lifelong independence and quality of life.

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision — A classification system for mental health diagnoses, formerly used in behavioral health settings.

Direct Support Providers — Professionals who assist individuals with developmental disabilities in daily living, employment, and social integration.

Occurs when an individual has both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder at the same time. Treatment requires integrated care for both conditions.

The length of time between the onset of psychotic symptoms and the start of treatment. A longer DUP is associated with poorer long-term outcomes.

Domestic Violence

Division of Vocational Rehabilitation — Provides employment-related services to individuals with disabilities, supporting job placement and skill development.

Diagnosis

A medical procedure used for severe mental health conditions, such as:

• Major depressive disorder
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia

It involves passing small electric currents through the brain under general anesthesia to trigger brief seizures, which can quickly relieve symptoms when other treatments have failed.

A digital version of a patient’s medical chart. In behavioral health, it includes:

• Diagnoses
• Treatment plans
• Therapy notes
• Medications
• Progress tracking

EHRs enhance care coordination, safety, and provider communication.

A behavioral health classification (often used in schools) for youth whose emotional challenges interfere with learning, relationships, and daily functioning.

May include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Mood or conduct disorders

Also used in determining special education eligibility.

A nonprofit behavioral health agency under La Frontera Arizona, based in Phoenix. EMPACT-SPC provides:

• 24/7 crisis response services
• Suicide prevention and intervention
• Outpatient therapy
• Trauma recovery support
• Specialized programs for youth, adults, veterans, and survivors of suicide loss

It serves individuals across Maricopa and Pinal counties.

A federally mandated Medicaid program for individuals under 21. It ensures:

• Regular health screenings (physical, dental, vision, hearing, and behavioral)
• Early identification of issues
• Coverage for medically necessary treatment

Goal: Prevent long-term health problems and support healthy development.