A Collin County court that steers people with mental illness toward treatment instead of jail is spotlighting crisis resources for Suicide Prevention Month.

The Collin County Adult Mental Health Court announced Sept. 15 that it is recognizing September as National Suicide Prevention Month.

The specialty court offers an alternative to incarceration for people living with mental illness who face criminal charges anywhere in Collin County, including Allen.

"Suicide prevention is a community effort," said Judge Jennifer Edgeworth, who presides over the court from the 219th District Court in McKinney.

"Early connection to appropriate resources can make a meaningful difference, particularly during times of crisis."

The program pairs participants with treatment, supervision and community-based support rather than sending them to jail. Participants face charges ranging from felony assault to misdemeanor theft and resisting arrest, according to a TCU Magazine profile published in February. Many live with conditions including PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression and anxiety.

Edgeworth co-founded the court with Judge Lance Baxter of County Court at Law No. 3. The program takes nine months to two years to complete. Participants who finish can have their criminal charges wiped from the public record.

Program results

The numbers stand out. Of 60 people admitted since the court's launch, 42 have graduated, with 14 currently enrolled, according to TCU Magazine. The program won the Judge Ruben G. Reyes Outstanding Specialty Court Team Award in 2025 from the Texas Association of Specialty Courts.

The court holds twice-monthly sessions of about two hours each, conducted at a conference table rather than from a traditional courtroom bench. Edgeworth and Baxter each spend 14 to 20 hours per month on the program, reviewing files, holding sessions and meeting with staff.

Edgeworth told TCU Magazine in February that the court aims to stop participants from cycling through the criminal justice system, calling it "an opportunity to truly help them."

Crisis resources

The court highlighted several organizations that serve Collin County residents, including those in Allen:

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, confidential support, available around the clock.
  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741.
  • LifePath Systems 24-Hour Crisis Hotline: (877) 422-5939. LifePath is Collin County's local behavioral health authority, offering mobile crisis response, crisis stabilization and community referrals regardless of insurance or income.
  • NAMI North Texas: (214) 341-7133 for education, support and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental health conditions.
  • 211 Texas: Dial 211 for referrals to health and human services, including housing, food and healthcare.

Residents seeking more information about the Adult Mental Health Court can contact program coordinator Nessa Reid at [email protected].

If you are having suicidal thoughts, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.