National Resource and TA Center for Individuals with Co-Occurring ID/DD and MH - The National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disabilities Services, the National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors, and the National Association for the Dually Diagnosed, in partnership with the Nisonger Center at Ohio State University, the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, Green Mountain Self Advocates, the Sonoran Center, Center for Systemic Therapeutic Assessment, Resources and Treatment (START) Services, and Communication First will, during this five-year project, develop the National Co-Occurring Resource Center (Center) for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities and co occurring mental health and related conditions. The three main goals of the project are to (1) influence positive and equitable systems change, (2) improve direct support workforce and clinical capacity, and (3) expand system access resources and opportunities to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental and behavioral health conditions. The objectives of this project are to create a Center that will provide an opportunity to elevate best practices in policy, clinical, and workforce capacity while improving the engagement of individuals with disabilities and their families in identifying effective treatment and support services. Anticipated outcomes include effective, understandable,, health literacy, accessibility, and other communication needs, designed to increase and sustain self-determination, empowerment, and quality of life for people with co-occurring intellectual/developmental and mental health disabilities. The expected products are a website, shared learning groups, a national conference, and a Center that will incorporate all facets of the project's expert stakeholders, steering committee members, and community partners.
