Our
Commitment

A History of Dedication

BHL sets itself apart from other software companies developing crisis care technologies by drawing on our longstanding mission, clinical expertise, and professional commitment to delivering exceptional support for individuals in crisis. 

From our executive leadership to our on-the-ground counselors and the customers we serve, we are dedicated to finding the most effective strategies to keep people safe and stable in communities nationwide—and to continuously provide the technologies that will make this happen.

Behavioral Health Link: A Vision for Transforming Crisis Care

Origins in a Fragmented System

In 1995, the landscape of behavioral health care was fragmented, with individuals and families struggling to navigate a complex web of services in moments of crisis. Recognizing a critical need for streamlined, compassionate care, a visionary partnership was incorporated in Atlanta called Behavioral Health Link.

"The goal was clear: develop a new model of access and crisis response that centered on community needs and innovative solutions."

It was formed between the University Health Care System in Augusta, Georgia, its physician-hospital organization (PHO), and individual psychiatrists on the medical staff of University Hospital. The goal was clear: develop a new model of access and crisis response that centered on community needs and innovative solutions.

Leadership and Early Innovation

At the heart of this effort was Gregg Graham, a pioneer in crisis management and behavioral health. Under Gregg’s leadership, University Hospital’s program became URAC-accredited as a health plan, setting a new standard for quality and coordination in crisis response. This foundation forged the creation of a crisis call center that was not just reactive but proactive—focused on coordinating care in real time and breaking down barriers to access.

A Strategic Shift

In June 2000, the mission took a bold step forward when Gregg Graham and Harry Weathers acquired the organization, setting the stage for a strategic shift. Realizing the importance of eliminating conflicts of interest and sharpening the focus on access and crisis care, the company divested all direct service contracts. This decision marked the beginning of a transformative journey—one driven by purpose rather than profit. A year later, the company was renamed Integrated Health Resources, signaling a renewed commitment to comprehensive crisis response and care coordination.

Embracing Technology

The development of crisis coordination technology became a pivotal aspect of the company’s vision. Initially leveraging an off-the-shelf managed care product, the team quickly recognized the potential for innovation through technology. By 2001, Behavioral Health Link was developing its own proprietary software—pioneering a platform that delivered real-time data and enabled dynamic crisis coordination. This technology not only enhanced access and outcomes but also laid the groundwork for Behavioral Health Link to emerge as one of the nation’s leading software firms for crisis care.

Growth and New Leadership

The vision gained momentum in 2002 when the Atlanta office opened and David Covington joined the leadership team. With a passion for innovation and unwavering dedication to crisis intervention, David brought fresh energy and a bold new approach to the organization’s mission. His leadership would prove instrumental in driving a fundamental evolution in how crisis care was delivered across the Southeast and beyond.

Strengthening the Vision

In 2004, Gregg Graham became the sole owner, doubling down on the company’s vision to revolutionize crisis response. Two years later, David Covington became a Partner, solidifying his long-term commitment to building a national model of crisis care that integrated cutting-edge technology and compassionate human connection.

Expanding Impact

From the start, Behavioral Health Link focused on building solutions that break down barriers between individuals and the help they need. The company launched pioneering access and crisis services, partnering with Georgia’s MHDDAD regions and supporting system reform efforts in states around the country. The approach emphasized proactive care and immediate response, reflecting a deep belief that no one should face a crisis alone.

Today and Beyond

Today, Behavioral Health Link stands as both a trailblazer in crisis response and a leader in crisis care software innovation. Its technology empowers teams to respond efficiently and compassionately, leveraging real-time data to improve access, coordination, and outcomes. From its roots as a regional initiative to its role as a national leader, the company remains steadfast in its mission to transform lives by ensuring help is always just a call away.

Behavioral Health Link: Technology & Impact Timeline

1995

BHL formed from University Hospital in Augusta & incorporated in Atlanta by Gregg Graham.

1998

BHL SPOE in Augusta, first dedicated crisis provider response

2001

1st Generation BHL’s SPOE Crisis Software-Real-Time Data Platform

2004

BHL answers 1-800-SUICIDE statewide

2006

BHL launches Georgia Crisis & Access Line (GCAL)

2009

Harvard University Innovations Award Finalist

2010

BHL joins National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention EXCOMM

2017

Global Crisis Now I Summit (London)

2017

BHL joins SAMHSA Interdepartmental Serious Mental Illness Coordinating Committee (ISMICC)

2018

BHL fully transitions to virtual call center response

2020

BHL launches 988 Crisis Jam Learning Community

2020

BHL unveils the BHL Platform, the software solution for crisis care.

2022

BHL answers the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline from Day One.

2024

150k Mobile Crisis Response Contacts

2024

5M Crisis Calls

2024

Documentary Produced by BHL, Moving America’s Soul on Suicide, Viewed 1M Times

2025

BHL Exceeds 988 Service Standards for 33 Straight Months

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