Driving Innovation and Delivering Results: Arc Mercer’s Behavioral Health Services Lead the Way

As the need for high-quality behavioral health services continues to rise across the intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) community, The Arc Mercer is setting a new standard—backed by data, strategy, and innovation. Through targeted investments in infrastructure and a commitment to person-centered care, the agency is delivering measurable outcomes that place it ahead of the curve.

Strategic Integration: A New Model of Clinical Support

One of the key pillars of The Arc Mercer’s current strategic plan has been the integration of behavioral health professionals directly into day programs and residential settings.

Over the past year, 10 Behavior Specialists have been embedded within these programs, transforming the way support is delivered. This integration ensures that individuals receive consistent, in-the-moment therapeutic interventions from trusted staff who know them best, eliminating gaps in communication and improving continuity of care.

In addition to this integration, additional clinical hires have been brought on to strengthen the agency’s internal infrastructure, providing essential backup and consultation across programs. This approach is part of a system-wide shift toward proactive, rather than reactive, behavioral support.

Training the Entire Organization: A Unified Crisis Response

All Arc Mercer departments have now completed comprehensive training in crisis assessment and response. This cross-departmental readiness ensures that every staff member is prepared to recognize early signs of escalation and implement de-escalation strategies that prioritize safety and dignity.

The result? A 65.78% decrease in crisis visits within the past year. When compared to a two-year span, the reduction is even more significant: a 94.87% decrease in crisis visits agency-wide. 

These results not only demonstrate the effectiveness of the agency’s integrated behavioral approach—they significantly outperform national expectations. While there is no universally standardized benchmark, industry research consistently shows that high-turnover, siloed systems often struggle to achieve sustained reductions in behavioral crises. Arc Mercer’s success stands in sharp contrast, marking it as a leader in IDD care.

Leading with Innovation: AI Companion Pilot Launch

In keeping with its strategic vision to modernize care delivery, The Arc Mercer has successfully launched a groundbreaking AI Companion Pilot Project—a first-of-its-kind tool in the agency’s behavioral services toolbox. Designed to offer supplemental emotional support between scheduled therapy sessions, the AI companion interacts with consumers through tailored prompts and wellness check-ins.

Initial pilot results show that participating individuals experienced a 50% decrease in support-related calls, saving approximately 11 hours of staff time per month—time that can be redirected toward more intensive care needs or program development.

Just as importantly, the participating consumer reported an increase in self-confidence and a stronger sense of support between clinical sessions.

This tool is not intended to replace human connection, but to extend therapeutic presence in ways that are accessible, consistent, and affirming.

Raising the Bar in Behavioral Health

The Arc Mercer’s behavioral health initiatives are not just meeting expectations—they are redefining what’s possible. With a sharp focus on data, integration, training, and innovation, the agency is building a model that prioritizes dignity, independence, and long-term growth for every individual served.

As systems across the nation look for scalable, person-centered solutions to behavioral health in the IDD space, The Arc Mercer continues to emerge as a blueprint for success—one that combines compassion with clinical excellence, and strategy with measurable outcomes