Outpatient Referrals

Table of Contents

IDHS contracts community providers statewide to deliver fitness restoration services on an outpatient basis, either in person or through telehealth.

Forensic Outpatient Manager

Tima Smith, PsyD, PSA
Forensic Outpatient Manager

Email: Tima.Smith@illinois.gov
Phone: (312) 636-7302

The Forensic Outpatient Manager (FOM) is the DBHR Bureau of Forensic & Justice Services point of contact for outpatient Unfit to Stand Trail (UST) referrals. The FOM receives the referral, identifies the appropriate treatment agency, forwards the court order and supporting materials, and provides ongoing consultation to the clinical team.

Recommending Inpatient

Outpatient restoration is the preferred placement when clinically appropriate. However, treatment needs may change over time, and some individuals may require a higher or lower level of care as their condition, engagement, or stability changes. If an individual decompensates (not an emergency) or is unable to safely or effectively participate in outpatient restoration, the treatment team should notify the court and contact the Forensic Placement Manager to discuss whether inpatient treatment should be recommended. Notification may occur through a letter to the court or as part of the 90-day update report, depending on the urgency of the situation. Likewise, individuals receiving inpatient restoration may later be considered appropriate for outpatient restoration as their condition stabilizes.

Emergency Situations

In the event of an emergency, the contracted agency staff should assess mental health and safety and then prioritize emergency mental health needs over restoration. The agency should act immediately if emergency hospitalization is needed and then notify the Forensic Outpatient Manager, court, and attorneys.