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TCI Department of Behavioural Health Services

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TCI Department of Behavioural Health Services

The official page of The Department of Behavioural Health Services, Turks and Caicos Islands.

In 2009, the Ministry of Health combined the National Drug Unit, Counseling & Psychological Services and Psychiatric Services; to create an integrated treatment approach to psychological and psychiatric needs of the Turks and Caicos Islands. As a reflection of this merge, the Department was given the name Department of Mental Health and Substance Dependence. The Department of Mental Health and Substance Dependence (DMHSD) functions as the Turks and Caicos Islands central authority for mental health and substance use disorders. In collaboration with other government departments and community agencies, DMHSD provides services and support to persons of all ages, who live with mental illness, emotional disturbance, or substance use disorders.

05/02/2026

On February 5, 2026, our team partnered with Clement Howell High School to engage students in a series of sessions titled “Drug and Substance Use and You,” hosted through the school’s Guidance Counselors Department.

Across many countries, substance use continues to pose serious risks to health and well-being, particularly for adolescents and young people. Research has shown strong links between drug and substance use and a range of mental health conditions, including substance-induced psychosis, the early onset or worsening of schizophrenia, severe anxiety, and depression. Notably, these conditions are among the top mental health concerns currently being identified within our islands.

Closer to home, substance use is increasingly being observed among younger age groups in our islands, raising concern about early exposure, normalisation, and long-term impact. This growing trend underscores the importance of reaching students early with clear information, prevention-focused conversations, and access to support before risks escalate.

During the sessions, students explored how drug and substance use affects the body and mind, the dangers associated with use, the benefits of choosing not to use, and the personal boundaries needed to navigate peer pressure. Students were also introduced to organisations and agencies available to provide support and intervention services.

The sessions were facilitated by Ms Tania Allen and Nurse Geraldine Gomez and created space for open discussion, practical learning, and increased awareness at a time when informed decision-making is critical.

Schools interested in hosting drug and substance use prevention or intervention sessions are encouraged to contact tamallen@gov.tc.

05/02/2026

On January 30, 2026, our team visited Shining Stars Preparatory School, where Grade 1 students participated in an engaging drug prevention session focused on “Just Say No to Drugs.”

Through interactive conversation and guided activities, students learned why drugs can be harmful to growing minds and bodies, practised confident ways to say “No,” and explored simple strategies for keeping themselves safe. The session was designed to build early awareness and confidence, reinforcing positive decision-making at a stage where foundational beliefs and behaviours are forming.
The session was facilitated by Ms. Tania Allen and Nurse Geraldine Gomez, who created a supportive learning environment that encouraged participation, understanding, and meaningful prevention messaging grounded in care and clarity.

In a climate where substance use is increasingly becoming normalised among younger persons, early prevention plays a critical role. Introducing clear messages at this stage helps children recognise risk, trust their instincts, and develop the confidence to make safe choices long before they are exposed to peer pressure or harmful influences.

Schools interested in hosting substance use prevention presentations are encouraged to contact Ms. Tania Allen at tamallen@gov.tc to learn more and schedule a session.

04/02/2026

𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗦 𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘
𝗗𝗕𝗛𝗦 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗔𝗰𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝘄𝗶𝗻 𝗜𝘀𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀

On 27 January 2026, the Department of Behavioural Health Services conducted stakeholder engagement visits across the Twin Islands as part of its continued efforts to strengthen collaboration, improve referral pathways, and promote equitable access to specialised mental health and substance use services. The visits included Mrs. Kacy Higgs, Substance Abuse Counsellor stationed on the Twin Islands, Ms. Tiara McTaire, Mental Health Education Specialist, Dr. Jadetra Inghram, Clinical Psychologist, and Dr. Coryse Penco, Clinical Psychologist. The team met with staff across multiple sectors to share information, answer questions, and reinforce clear and appropriate referral processes.

The engagements reflect the Department of Behavioural Health Services’ strategic focus on accessibility, continuity of care, and system-wide collaboration. Under the leadership of Dr. Alicia Malcolm, Director of the Department, the Department has prioritised strengthening referral pathways, expanding access to specialised mental health services across all islands, and ensuring that frontline stakeholders are equipped with the knowledge needed to connect individuals to the appropriate level of care.

“Access to specialised mental health care should not depend on where you live,” said Dr. Alicia Malcolm, Director of the Department of Behavioural Health Services. “These engagements reflect our ongoing commitment to strengthening partnerships, clarifying referral pathways, and ensuring that individuals across the Twin Islands can connect to the right level of support when they need it.”

Commenting on this initiative, the Honourable Minister of Health and Human Services, Kyle Knowles, stated that “This engagement forms part of a broader, ongoing outreach initiative by the Department of Behavioural Health Services. Similar stakeholder visits and collaborative sessions are planned for other islands to ensure consistent understanding of available services, referral pathways, and access to specialised mental health support across the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Ministry through the Department, remains committed to sustained engagement, not one-time visits, as part of its wider strategy to strengthen island-wide mental health care delivery.”

To learn more about DBHS programs please contact:
Department of Behavioural Health Services - Zone 1 (Grand Turk/South Caicos, Salt Cay) 649 338 3613 and Zone 2 (Providenciales, North & Middle Caicos) 649 338 3616.
Also, be sure to visit our website www.gov.tc/dmhsd and follow our social media accounts www.facebook.com/TCIDBHS and on Instagram. You can also visit the Ministry of Health’s page on https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/.

04/02/2026

𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄
𝐅𝐑𝐎𝐌 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐋𝐓𝐇 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐇𝐔𝐌𝐀𝐍 𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐕𝐈𝐂𝐄𝐒

𝐏𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐄𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐲 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡, 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐀𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐮𝐫𝐤𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐚𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝐈𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 4 February 2026 - Pelican Energy has officially launched its 2026 calendar, Healing Together: 14 Lives, 14 Mental Health Lessons, a community-focused initiative that centres authentic stories of mental health, recovery, caregiving, and personal growth from individuals across the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The calendar features 14 community members who share reflections shaped by lived experience, offering lessons that emphasise hope, persistence, and the importance of support. Each story contributes to a broader national effort to normalise conversations around mental health and challenge stigma.

The 2026 cover highlights Katrina Been and Adell Simmons, whose shared journey reflects the realities of long-term mental health challenges and caregiving. Katrina’s story brings attention to the emotional strength required to support a loved one over time, while Adell’s experience underscores the value of compassion, patience, and sustained care.

Also featured in the calendar is Ronego Missick, who reflects on his past struggles with substance use and the personal work involved in overcoming addiction. His story focuses on accountability, perseverance, and the role of support in recovery, reinforcing the message that change is possible and that setbacks do not define a person’s future.

The calendar also includes Dr. Alicia Malcolm, Director of the Department of Behavioural Health Services, who shares the Department’s mission and recovery-oriented perspective on mental health. Her message reflects the importance of encouragement and continued care, reminding the community that setbacks are not signs of failure but indicators that additional support may be needed.

Pelican Energy worked in collaboration with the Department of Behavioural Health Services to ensure the calendar’s messaging aligned with national mental health priorities and supported the Department’s anti-stigma campaign, Shift Your Mind: Reframing Mental Health in the TCI. The campaign focuses on reducing stigma, correcting misconceptions, and encouraging open, informed conversations about mental health across all communities.

Research shows that approximately one in four people will experience a mental health condition during their lifetime, yet stigma remains one of the main barriers to seeking care. Evidence also indicates that hearing lived experience stories improves mental health understanding and increases willingness to seek support, particularly in close-knit communities such as those across the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Through this initiative, Pelican Energy demonstrates its commitment to corporate social responsibility by supporting projects that promote community wellbeing. The collaboration with the Department of Behavioural Health Services highlights the value of public and private partnerships in advancing mental health awareness and education.

Access to services through the Department of Behavioural Health Services is managed through an online booking system. Individuals seeking mental health or substance use support are encouraged to book appointments using the Department’s official booking link, which can be accessed via the Department’s social media pages or Linktree at https://linktr.ee/TCIDBHS. This process helps ensure timely, confidential, and appropriate service delivery.

The 2026 Healing Together calendar will be available while supplies last at the following locations:

Pelican Energy Offices nationwide
Providenciales and Grand Turk - Graceway Supermarkets
NCS Financial Services MoneyGram branch at Cee’s Plaza
North Caicos- NCS Financial Services MoneyGram at Dard’s Grocery Store, Bottle Creek
South Caicos - Seaview Market, Stubbs Road

Commenting on this milestone iniatitive, Hon. Minister of Health and Human Services, Kyle Knowles stated that “This public private partnership which yielded this Calendar with the theme - Healing Together, serves as a reminder that mental health journeys are not linear and that progress is built through understanding, support, and persistence. By amplifying lived experiences and supporting national anti-stigma efforts, this initiative contributes to a Turks and Caicos Islands where mental health is approached with honesty, dignity, and care.”

To learn more about DBHS programs please contact:
Department of Behavioural Health Services - Zone 1 (Grand Turk/South Caicos, Salt Cay) 649 338 3613 and Zone 2 (Providenciales, North & Middle Caicos) 649 338 3616.

Also, be sure to visit our website www.gov.tc/dmhsd and follow our social media accounts TCI Department of Behavioural Health Services and on Instagram. You can also visit the Ministry of Health’s page on https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/ .

26/01/2026

PRESS RELEASE
To***co Dealers Registration

19/01/2026

On Thursday, 15th January 2026, the official launch of the Bright Horizons by the Juvenile Prevention and Intervention Council (JPIC) in Providenciales sent a clear and intentional message: early, coordinated action for our youth matters and it must be done responsibly.

JPIC is a national, multi-agency framework grounded in prevention, early identification, and targeted intervention for at-risk youth. This initiative is not about shifting responsibility from one agency to another. It is about shared accountability, clearly defined roles, and ensuring that young people and their families receive the right support at the right time through the right system.

The Department of Behavioural Health Services reinforced its commitment to this standard through the formal signing of the Memorandum of Understanding by Dr. Alicia Malcolm, Director of DBHS. This act underscored DBHS’s role as a strategic clinical partner within JPIC, grounded in appropriate referrals, evidence-based intervention, and the protection of the integrity of behavioural health services.

JPIC sets a clear tone for how we move forward: collaboratively, intentionally, and within mandate, so responsibility is shared, systems remain strong, and no young person falls through the cracks.

National engagement continues in Grand Turk, 30 January, 2026..

15/12/2025

As part of our holiday outreach, the Department of Behavioural Health Services is sharing these Four Gifts of Care.
They are gentle reminders that even during difficult seasons, you are capable of taking small, meaningful steps to care for yourself and support your well-being.

The holidays can bring grief, stress, loneliness, and emotional fatigue, but they can also be a time to move with intention, gentleness, and self-awareness. These moments of care are not about doing everything, but about doing what is possible, at your own pace.

If this season feels heavy, please remember that support is available. You are not alone, and you are capable of getting through this season with care and support.

04/12/2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Department of Behavioural Health Services and Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Complete S.A.F.E.R. Conversation Training
The Department of Behavioural Health Services (DBHS), in close collaboration with the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF), successfully completed a one day S.A.F.E.R. Conversation Training session. This specialised session was designed to strengthen frontline responses to mental health crises, su***de risk, and overall community safety.

The training was formally opened by Dr. Alicia Malcolm, Director of the Department of Behavioural Health Services, who emphasised the importance of preparing frontline professionals with the right tools. In her remarks, Dr. Malcolm stated,

“Every crisis is a moment that can go in two directions. When officers have the right tools, that moment can move toward safety, dignity, and hope. Today’s training strengthens our collective ability to protect life and to serve the public with humanity and understanding.”
The Minister of Health and Human Services, Hon. Kyle Knowles, also extended his support for the initiative. He stated,
“This training strengthens the collaboration between public health and law enforcement. By equipping officers to recognise distress and respond safely, we are investing in stronger crisis response and in the wellbeing of our people.”
A total of 14 participants attended the session, including 10 officers from various units across the RTCIPF. The training was facilitated by Coastline Consulting Partners and delivered by presenters Lindsay Slattery Cerny and Catharine Staniscia, both recognised for their expertise in crisis intervention, behavioural health, and law enforcement support.
During the session, participants were introduced to the S.A.F.E.R. model, which provides a structured approach for responding to individuals who may be experiencing mental health challenges or suicidal thoughts. S.A.F.E.R. stands for:
· See the signs
· Ask directly
· Focus on safety
· Engage resources
· Reinforce next steps
This framework helped officers build confidence in identifying distress, approaching individuals with care, and guiding them toward appropriate support.
Participants also explored practical techniques for de-escalation, effective communication, and early intervention. Special attention was given to persons living with mental health conditions and those at risk for su***de, ensuring that officers are better prepared to respond with empathy and clarity during challenging interactions.
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Another highlight of the training was the introduction of the acronym FACTS, which supports officers in identifying su***de warning signs:
· F – Feelings
· A – Actions
· C – Changes
· T – Threats
· S – Situation
Through both the S.A.F.E.R. and FACTS models, officers gained a deeper understanding of risk factors, warning signs, and protective factors, as well as how to integrate these insights into their daily policing duties.
This training promotes a safer Turks and Caicos Islands by strengthening the capacity of law enforcers to recognise mental health concerns and respond sensitively. It supports a more compassionate and informed police service, helping to reduce harm, improve crisis outcomes, and build trust between the community and law enforcement.
The Department of Behavioural Health Services remains committed to supporting frontline professionals and enhancing interagency collaboration to ensure effective, compassionate crisis response across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
For more information about the Department of Behavioural Health Services, be sure to visit our website www.gov.tc/dmhsd and follow our social media accounts www.facebook.com/TCIDBHS and on Instagram. You can also visit the Ministry of Health’s page on https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/

26/11/2025

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Center of Hope Receives Heartfelt Donation from Local Business Owner Ms. Anika Talbot

Date: November 20th

The Department of Behavioural Health Services is pleased to share that the Center of Hope received a thoughtful donation of games and activity materials from local business owner Ms. Anika Talbot, CEO of A&H Beauty Supply.

At the Center of Hope, recreational materials are more than entertainment; they are key tools that support engagement, build social skills, strengthen cognitive functioning, and encourage positive interaction among clients. These activities help staff create structured teaching moments, reinforce therapeutic goals, and promote a more supportive and stimulating environment.

Director of the Department of Behavioural Health Services, Dr. Alicia Malcolm, expressed her appreciation, stating:

"We are truly thankful for Ms. Talbot’s thoughtfulness. Her act of kindness highlights the importance of supporting some of the most vulnerable individuals in our community, including those living with mental illness. We believe that this act of kindness will be an inspiration to others."

Ms. Talbot shared the heart behind her contribution:

"As the CEO of A&H Beauty Supply, I feel so humbled to give back to Center of Hope. This month marks a memorable time to do so as we celebrate our National Day of Thanksgiving. This has always been a heartfelt desire to contribute to this Foundation for a number of reasons. We personally have friends here whom we cherish dearly. The Center rarely gets the attention it deserves for donations and in life we can never predict how in the blink of an eye, our mental state of mind can change. It is here, through support and compassion, that we begin making a difference in the lives of our people for a more promising tomorrow."

We extend sincere thanks to Ms. Talbot for her generosity and her commitment to community support.

For more information about Center of Hope, be sure to visit our website www.gov.tc/dmhsd and follow our social media accounts www.facebook.com/TCIDBHS and on Instagram. You can also visit the Ministry of Health’s page on https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth

24/11/2025

Let’s be honest: burnout does not announce itself. It creeps in, piles up, and shows up in the moments we least expect.

The BRIDGE Series continues with Mrs. Tonya Greaves, Psychologist for Zone 1, breaking down what burnout really looks like and how to pull yourself back through practical, everyday recovery strategies.

Mrs. Greaves is known for her grounded, compassionate approach, and her ability to speak to the parts of us that are tired but still trying.
If you have been running on empty, this one is for you.

She sees the frontline. She sees the load. And in this session, she sees you.
You're invited to Bridge Series: Burnout Recovery: Practical tools for everyday recovery

Thu Nov 27, 2025

10:00 AM—10:30 AM (EST)

https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_MGZjNTVjOTktNDIwMC00MDlhLWJiMjgtN2ZhMTU4ODYwMzRh%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22898da870-74ae-446a-96d2-82bf4c844fec%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22bca513c3-655c-46be-9ecb-4191551f8c76%22%7d

Tap on the link or paste it in a browser to join.

11/11/2025

The Dark Side of Addiction

In a heartfelt community session led by Mrs. Kacy Higgs, Substance Abuse Counselor for Zone 2 (North & Middle Caicos), residents came together to face a truth that is often avoided: addiction is real, and support is available.

This session also marked the launch of one of the Department’s recovery programs, designed to strengthen community support and create safe spaces for honest dialogue about substance use and recovery. Ms. Lataraka Forbes, Registered Nurse, joined in leading the conversation, helping to create a comfortable and engaging atmosphere for participants to share their perspectives.

Participants reflected on their experiences and offered creative ideas for future activities aimed at reaching the working 18+ population. Mrs. Higgs emphasized that the lack of recreational facilities and structured community opportunities contributes to increased time spent in bars and other social drinking spaces, noting that if more healthy outlets were available, substance use would likely decrease.

She expressed her deep passion for supporting individuals and families affected by addiction and encouraged community members to seek help when needed, reminding everyone that healing begins with a willingness to reach out.

“This session wasn’t just about awareness; it was about connection, understanding, and hope,” said Mrs. Higgs.

06/11/2025

In case you missed it our session with Dr. Coryse Penco on Mood moves: Understanding anger, sadness and what they're trying to tell us, here's your chance to gain some skills to navigate life's experiences

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Grand Turk

Opening Hours

Monday	08:30 - 16:30
Tuesday	08:30 - 16:30
Wednesday	08:30 - 16:30
Thursday	08:30 - 16:30
Friday	09:00 - 16:00

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+16493383613

Website

http://www.gov.tc/dmhsd/

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