DRC Programs

PROTECTION & ADVOCACY FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MENTAL ILLNESS (PAIMI)

The purpose of PAIMI is twofold:

1. To advocate for and protect the human and legal rights of individuals in Arkansas with mental illness
2. To investigate allegations of abuse or neglect of persons with mental illness

Under Federal law, all persons with mental illness or emotional disorders in Arkansas are eligible for PAIMI assistance. We assist most individuals through providing helpful information, education, or referral to appropriate resources. Individual advocacy is available as needed, in accordance with the Annual Program Priorities, and legal representation can be provided to clients whose litigation may benefit large numbers of persons with disabilities.

In accordance with Federal law, the PAIMI Advisory Council provides independent advice and recommendations about the program.  The Advisory Council also works jointly with the DRC Board to develop the Annual Program Priorities.

PAIMI services help individuals having problems securing their rights to such things as freedom from harm, receiving appropriate and humane treatment, and freedom to choose which treatment is best.

PAIMI services are funded by the Center for Mental Health Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and are provided free of charge.

Click here for SAMHSA information about the program.

Click here for links to mental health services and mental health advocacy resources.

The members of the PAIMI Advisory Council are available here.

Resources on Mental Illness

Mental Health Council of Arkansas

Interactive maps of community mental health centers across the State of Arkansas and their affiliates.

http://mhca.org/member.htm

Community Counseling Services, Inc. (Hot Springs)

Provides services to meet the behavioral healthcare needs of adults, children, and families in our communities. Not a member of the Mental Health Council of Arkansas (MCHA), and unidentified on the MCHA website map.

http://www.communitycounselingservices.org/

PAIMI Archives

A Matter of Law: Providing an Interpreter for the Deaf under ADA (pdf).