The Hartselle Police Department has hired a mental health counselor to provide on-site support and resources for officers, an effort Police Chief Alan McDearmond said is aimed at improving overall wellness within the department.
Ruthie Jones, a registered nurse and licensed clinical social worker, has joined the department to provide mental health support to Hartselle officers. She regularly visits the police department, giving personnel the opportunity to meet one-on-one in an informal setting designed to make mental health support more accessible and less intimidating.
McDearmond said the city already offers an employee assistance program that provides mental health and wellness resources, but stigma can often prevent officers from reaching out…