Intensive Residential Treatment (IRT) teams are part of Governor Jay Inslee’s plan to transition individuals out of Washington’s state hospital civil commitment wards. These teams address gaps in community resources for individuals discharged from state hospitals who don’t qualify for ALTSA residential support waivers.  

Developed by the Health Care Authority’s (HCA) Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery (DBHR) in collaboration with ALTSA and other partners, the IRT model supports individuals whose mental health symptoms are too severe for independent living but don’t require hospitalization. Funded by the legislature, these teams provide wraparound care to help individuals live successfully in their communities and reduce re-hospitalization rates.

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IRT teams provide behavioral health support for individuals struggling in Adult Family Homes (AFHs) or Assisted Living Facilities (ALFs). They serve as the primary mental health provider, collaborating with facility staff and offering direct clinical interventions. For after-hours care, they coordinate with community providers and emergency departments, focusing on crisis prevention and early intervention to minimize the need for additional support.