RHA’s New FACT Team Will Serve Buncombe County

November 7, 2025

This week, the NC Department of Health and Human Services and First Lady Anna Stein announced the Forensic Assertive Community Treatment (FACT) program! This new program will improve outcomes for people involved with the criminal justice system living with severe and persistent mental health challenges. In late 2025 or early 2026, RHA’s FACT team will begin serving Buncombe County.  

RHA’s Behavioral Health Urgent Care and Mobile Crisis teams are already lifelines in the community, and FACT will further their mission by building connections, advocating for recovery, and supporting local emergency response and legal systems. Led by Lacey Rutherford, an experienced licensed clinician with a heart for the Buncombe County community, RHA’s FACT team will be prepared to meet people wherever they may face crises or complex day-to-day challenges. The FACT model builds on the proven success of RHA’s Assertive Community Treatment services by integrating forensic expertise, legal coordination, and intensive behavioral health support to promote recovery.  

Rutherford says, “RHA has served this community for almost twenty years. We are excited to further that commitment through FACT’s partnerships with state agencies and local organizations.” RHA is proud to add the FACT program to our array of services that help our communities achieve recovery and mental wellness! To find mental health services near you, visit rhahealth.org/bh.