MOUNT OLIVE TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Morris County) — The Mount Olive Police Department has welcomed a new mental health co-responder to its Mount Olive Connect And Protect (MO CAP) program, expanding the department’s efforts to support residents facing mental health or substance abuse challenges.
Lauren, a licensed associate counselor, joins the program through a partnership with the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris, which provides clinicians who work alongside police to respond to mental health-related calls.
According to police, Lauren began her career in a high school counseling department and later worked as a mental health therapist. She is also certified in mental health first aid.
The MO CAP program pairs mental health professionals with law enforcement to provide specialized support during crisis situations and connect residents with appropriate services and resources.
Officials said the program is designed to assist individuals and families dealing with mental health or substance use issues while providing alternatives to traditional law enforcement responses when appropriate.
Residents experiencing an emergency should call 911. For non-emergency situations, individuals can contact the Mount Olive Police Department Communications Center at 973-691-0850 to be connected with an MO CAP clinician.
