The New Mexico Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) has made exciting strides with the Behavioral Health Reform and Investment Act (SB3). This initiative aims to transform the behavioral health system across the state, making it more responsive and accessible to everyone.
Progress in Behavioral Health Planning
Recently, regional leaders known as Accountable Entities have been selected in all 13 behavioral health regions. These organizations will play a vital role in planning, organizing listening sessions, and engaging with communities to ensure that local voices are heard. The goal is to tailor solutions based on actual needs and experiences.
Listening Sessions to Gather Input
This month, the AOC, in partnership with the Accountable Entities and the Alliance of Health Councils, will kick off listening sessions throughout New Mexico. These sessions are crucial for gathering input from the community, providers, and local governments. Feedback will be used to shape the regional behavioral health plans, ensuring they address the unique challenges faced by each area.
For example, a listening session focused on adult behavioral health will be held on December 9, 2025. Another session covering both adults and youth will take place on January 7, 2026. This process emphasizes the importance of community connections in developing effective support systems.
Launching E-SIM Workshops
In addition to the listening sessions, AOC is initiating Enhanced Sequential Intercept Mapping (E-SIM) workshops. These meetings, scheduled to start in Bernalillo County next week, will help regions understand their behavioral health systems better. By identifying gaps and opportunities, these workshops aim to improve coordination among crisis services, law enforcement, and community programs.
Caroline Bonham, MD, from The University of New Mexico’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, noted that these workshops are a critical step toward building an integrated behavioral health framework for the state.
Creating Regional Behavioral Health Plans
Once the E-SIM workshops conclude, each region will develop its own behavioral health regional plans. These plans will outline local priorities, strategies, and funding recommendations. To support this development, up to $60,000 will be available for each region to strengthen its behavioral health services.
This approach is not just about planning; it’s about taking actionable steps to ensure better health outcomes for all New Mexicans. According to surveys, over 50% of residents in New Mexico have faced challenges accessing mental health services. By engaging local communities in this planning process, the state hopes to address these concerns meaningfully.
Looking Ahead
This is just the beginning. The next phase involves sharing updates, schedules, and registration links for listening sessions and E-SIM workshops, allowing for seamless community involvement.
As Esperanza Lucero of AOC emphasized, “This next phase is all about listening.” The voices of communities, families, and individuals with lived experiences will shape the path forward for New Mexico’s behavioral health system. Together, they can drive the change that will create a healthier future for all.
For more information on this initiative, you can visit NM Health Councils.
