Dutchess County Executive William R. Steinhaus announced the county’s effort to reach persons in need of mental health care by partnering with Taconic Resources for Independence, Inc. for sign language interpreters to assist therapists who provide treatment to patients in outpatient programs who are deaf or hard of hearing.

“This program is administered through the County’s Department of Mental Hygiene to complement their comprehensive services that allow residents to gain access to mental health treatment,” noted County Executive Steinhaus.

According to Commissioner of Mental Hygiene, Dr. Kenneth M. Glatt, “The Department is pleased to be able to provide this valuable service which increases our accessibility to the community and, though not needed on a regular basis, plays a vital part in both the diagnostic and therapeutic processes.”

Recently, as part of a multi-cultural training program the county takes part in, clinical staff from the Department of Mental Hygiene attended a two-hour session on Deaf Culture and Disability Awareness presented through the auspices of Taconic Resources, Inc.

The program is made possible through Taconic Resources Inc.’s Mid-Hudson Interpreter Service.  By contract, interpreters adhere to the same strict standards of confidentiality as practiced by Dutchess County mental health professionals.
  
The Department of Mental Hygiene can be contacted at 845/485-9700 or toll free at 877-485-9700.