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Santa Clara County Mental Health Department

  • All About Santa Clara County Mental Health Department
  • History of Santa Clara County Mental Health Department
  • Mission and Vision of Santa Clara County Mental Health Department
  • Services Offered by Santa Clara County Mental Health Department
  • Crisis Intervention Programs provided by Santa Clara County Mental Health Department
  • Community Outreach Programs Offered by Santa Clara County Mental Health Department
  • Collaborations and Partnerships of Santa Clara County Mental Health Department
  • Accreditation and Awards Received by Santa Clara County Mental Health Department
  • Staff and Leadership of Santa Clara County Mental Health Department
  • Strategic Plan and Future Directions for Santa Clara County Mental Health Department

All About Santa Clara County Mental Health Department

Santa Clara County Mental Health Department (SCCMHD) is a public agency that offers a wide range of mental health services to the residents of Santa Clara County, California. The department was established in 1950 and has since then been dedicated to improving the mental health and well-being of the county's diverse population. SCCMHD serves individuals with serious mental illnesses, children with emotional and behavioral disorders, and families who are struggling with mental health issues. The department aims to provide accessible, high-quality, and culturally competent services to all its clients.

History of Santa Clara County Mental Health Department

SCCMHD has a rich history that dates back over 70 years. The department was originally established as the Santa Clara County Mental Health Clinic in 1950, with the primary goal of providing psychiatric services to World War II veterans. Over the years, the department expanded its programs and services to include a wide range of mental health services for all residents of Santa Clara County. In 1967, SCCMHD became a division of the Santa Clara Valley Health and Hospital System. Today, SCCMHD is one of the largest public mental health agencies in California, serving over 25,000 individuals annually.

Mission and Vision of Santa Clara County Mental Health Department

SCCMHD's mission is to promote the well-being of the residents of Santa Clara County by providing integrated, culturally responsive, and evidence-based mental health services. The department is committed to reducing stigma associated with mental illness, promoting recovery, and empowering individuals to achieve their full potential. SCCMHD's vision is to create a community where everyone has access to high-quality mental health care and where mental health is recognized as an essential component of overall health and wellness.

Services Offered by Santa Clara County Mental Health Department

SCCMHD offers a wide range of mental health services, including crisis intervention, outpatient therapy, case management, medication management, residential treatment, and supportive services. The department provides services to individuals with serious mental illnesses, children with emotional and behavioral disorders, and families who are struggling with mental health issues. SCCMHD's services are delivered by a team of licensed mental health professionals who are trained to provide culturally competent care.

Crisis Intervention Programs provided by Santa Clara County Mental Health Department

SCCMHD offers several crisis intervention programs for individuals who are experiencing a mental health crisis. The department operates a 24/7 crisis hotline that provides immediate support and assistance to individuals in crisis. The department also has a Mobile Crisis Response Team that provides on-site crisis intervention services to individuals in their homes or in the community. SCCMHD's Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES) provides emergency psychiatric evaluations and crisis stabilization services to individuals who need urgent care.

Community Outreach Programs Offered by Santa Clara County Mental Health Department

SCCMHD is committed to promoting mental health awareness and reducing stigma associated with mental illness. The department offers several community outreach programs that aim to educate the public about mental health and wellness. SCCMHD's Peer Empowerment Program, for example, provides peer-led support groups to individuals with mental illnesses. The department also offers cultural competency training to mental health professionals to ensure that they can provide effective and culturally responsive care to all clients.

Collaborations and Partnerships of Santa Clara County Mental Health Department

SCCMHD collaborates with several community agencies and organizations to ensure that clients receive comprehensive and coordinated care. The department works closely with local hospitals, primary care clinics, and social service agencies to ensure that clients receive the support they need to achieve their recovery goals. SCCMHD also partners with community-based organizations to provide specialized services to underserved populations, such as refugees and immigrants.

Accreditation and Awards Received by Santa Clara County Mental Health Department

SCCMHD is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and has received several awards for its commitment to providing high-quality mental health services. In 2020, SCCMHD received the National Association of Counties Achievement Award for its Crisis Stabilization Unit, which provides short-term residential treatment to individuals in crisis. The department has also received recognition for its efforts to promote mental health and wellness in the community.

Staff and Leadership of Santa Clara County Mental Health Department

SCCMHD is led by a team of experienced mental health professionals who are committed to providing high-quality care to clients. The department employs over 700 staff members, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nurses, and other mental health professionals. SCCMHD's staff is diverse and reflects the cultural and linguistic diversity of Santa Clara County. The department is committed to providing ongoing training and professional development opportunities to its staff to ensure that they can provide the best possible care to clients.

Strategic Plan and Future Directions for Santa Clara County Mental Health Department

SCCMHD's strategic plan outlines the department's goals and objectives for the next several years. The department's strategic priorities include expanding access to care, improving quality of care, promoting recovery and resiliency, and reducing stigma associated with mental illness. SCCMHD is committed to using evidence-based practices and technology to improve the delivery of mental health services. The department is also focused on building partnerships and collaborations with community agencies and organizations to ensure that clients receive comprehensive and coordinated care.

Frequently Asked Questions about Santa Clara County Mental Health Department

What services does the Santa Clara County Mental Health Department offer?

The Santa Clara County Mental Health Department offers a range of services including crisis intervention, individual and group therapy, medication management, case management, and support groups.

What is the process for accessing mental health services in Santa Clara County?

To access mental health services in Santa Clara County, individuals can call the Santa Clara County Mental Health Department Access Call Center at (800) 704-0900. They will be asked a series of questions to determine the appropriate level of care, and may be scheduled for an appointment with a mental health professional.

Are there mental health resources available for children and youth in Santa Clara County?

Yes, the Santa Clara County Mental Health Department offers a range of services and resources for children and youth including early intervention services, school-based mental health services, and youth peer support programs.

What is the cost for mental health services in Santa Clara County?

The cost for mental health services in Santa Clara County depends on a variety of factors including income, insurance coverage, and the type of service. Some services may be free or low-cost for individuals who qualify.