1 minute read
COUNTY BOOSTS MENTAL HEALTH NAVIGATOR PROGRAM
from Los Gatan 1-25-2023
by Weeklys
The Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors recently increased funding and staff for the County’s Behavioral Health Navigator Program, an initiative proposed by Supervisor Joe Simitian.
The new program, which launched in July, helps residents navigate the County’s mental health system, including public and private resources.
“This is good news,” Simitian said. “The Mental Health Navigator Program is a one-stop shop, designed to help those who encounter challenges or barriers when seeking mental health care for themselves or their loved ones. We’re adding more staff to the program because the public is using this service to access a ‘system’ that can be complicated, confusing and bureaucratic. And there are even more folks who need help finding the right path to treatment.”
The Behavioral Health Navigator Program connects individuals and families to County and County-contracted services, and when appropriate, even identifies private resources to help guide the public through the mental health system.
Following established privacy protocols, trained navigators offer:
• Personalized assistance to get help for behavioral health needs;
• Knowledgeable information and resources for mental health, substance use, suicide prevention, support groups, and more;
• Peer guidance about options for wellness services and support;
• Connection to County and community-based resources; and,
• Support from peers with an understanding of local services.
“Navigators listen to concerns, provide information, and connect people with resources for themselves and their families. They work with County programs and nonprofit partners to find the best fit,” Simitian said. “From the beginning, my hope has been that by guiding members of our community through and around barriers, we can help them get the treatment they need and get their lives back on track.”
Santa Clara County residents may contact the Behavioral Health Navigator Program by calling 800.704.0900, option 4, or emailing BHNavigator@ hhs.sccgov.org.
