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ASSISTED OUTPATIENT TREATMENT

Community Support for Mental Health Recovery

Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) is a court order to help people with serious mental illness (SMI) get the mental health care they need. AOT provides essential support to those who may not be aware they need treatment. 

The probate court determines if someone needs an AOT through a petitioning process. If approved, a local community mental health agency (such as MCCMH) will create a personalized treatment plan to meet the person’s goals. This approach focuses on delivering care within the community, so they don’t have to go to the hospital or jail. 

AOT helps people: 

  • Manage their mental health  
  • Reduce harmful behaviors 
  • Live more independently 

How to Get Help

You can petition for AOT through the probate court in the county where the person lives.   

To find out more about how AOT works in your county, contact your local community mental health agency and the probate court. They can share specific information about how AOT petitions are filed and carried out in your community. 

Locate your county’s probate court and download the petition for mental health treatment by visiting the Wayne State University Center of Behavioral Health and Justice’s website. 

Resources

If you are interested in learning more about AOT and the system of care, explore our library of resources:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Who is eligible for AOT?

An adult with SMI may be considered for AOT if they: 

  • May harm themselves or others 
  • Have difficulty meeting basic needs like food, clothing, or shelter 
  • Do not recognize their need for mental health care and refuse voluntary treatment 

What is the system of care?

People with SMI do not have to improve their mental health on their own. The system of care works together to provide mental health services within the community. The goal is to help the person transition to voluntary care.  

The system of care includes: 

  • Courts 
  • Mental health providers 
  • Hospitals 
  • Families, caregivers, and advocates 
  • Law enforcement 
  • Person receiving care 

What are the benefits of AOT?

Research shows AOT reduces the negative effects of untreated SMI, including hospital stays, arrests and jail time, suicidal and aggressive behaviors, and substance use. 

What kind of services can be ordered?

AOT orders include a variety of services tailored to the person’s needs. These services help them manage their mental health effectively. Specific services may vary depending on the person, probate court, and community mental health agency. 

Available AOT services may include: 

  • Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) 
  • Case management 
  • Day or partial-day programs 
  • Educational or vocational training 
  • Medication 
  • Individual and/or group outpatient therapy 
  • Substance use treatment and testing  
  • Placement in supervised living or group homes 

Is AOT issued through the district court?

No, AOT is ordered through the probate court.  

AOT is not a criminal matter. A person with an AOT cannot be jailed for not following treatment. 

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