Two programs

People serving time in local jails can learn, grow and rebuild their lives. Axis Health System’s team of therapists, coaches and case managers are there to help them with two programs: Jail-Based Behavioral Health Services (JBBHS) and Jail Transitions (JT). One program helps them cope while inside the jail, and the other helps them adapt to a new life outside the jail after they are released. The programs are separate but connected: JBBHS does all the footwork up to the release, and then the JT team takes over. Both programs are supported with funding from the Office of Behavioral Health. 

Jail-Based Behavioral Health Services (JBBHS) 

The JBBHS team helps inmates cope and recover while they are incarcerated in Montezuma, La Plata and Archuleta County jails. Axis JBBHS services include assessments, individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, skills-based learning, illness management recovery, intensive case management, pharmacological referrals, outreach and advocacy. Structured services are designed to build coping skills, reduce stress and recover from substance use and mental health.

Jail Transitions (JT)

The second Axis program, Jail Transitions, is voluntary for people who are approaching release from the jails. It provides intensive short-term support. The goal is to surround the person with a “wraparound” network to reduce reoffending and reincarceration and improve mental health and substance use recovery. Jail Transitions includes collaboration between the client, mental health providers, medical providers, probation officers, the court system and other community resources. The JT team sets participants up with therapy and intensive case management for needs such as housing, food and transportation. They work to continue skill building for coping, recovery and stress management.

Connect to services

Jail Transitions and outpatient services are available at three Axis locations: Columbine Behavioral Healthcare in Durango, Cortez Integrated Healthcare in Cortez, and Archuleta Integrated Healthcare in Pagosa Springs. Medicaid is accepted, and a sliding-fee scale is available for those who qualify.

Axis accepts referrals for jail services from probation and parole officers, public defenders, sheriff and police departments, Department of Human Services, and other agencies. To make a referral for residents in La Plata, Montezuma or Archuleta counties, call 970.259.2162.