Tulare County Behavioral Health is dedicated to meeting the mental health needs of our community. We actively listen to residents and local partners to understand what services are necessary. Recently, Disability Rights California (DRC) looked into local mental health services and pointed out where we can improve.
We know that each person has unique needs, so we strive to make our mental health services inclusive and accessible. Together with healthcare providers and community organizations, we are working hard to enhance our behavioral health system.
To better serve our community, we are expanding our services and improving our response to crises. We are increasing the number of treatment facilities and focusing on helping the most vulnerable. Our goal is to reduce the need for law enforcement during crises and to promote voluntary support within the community. We are also strengthening our crisis response plans, boosting our mobile crisis teams, and teaming up with local schools to make sure young people get the help they need.
On February 24, 2025, we reached a settlement agreement with Disability Rights California that highlights our commitment to these initiatives. As part of the agreement, we are already enhancing our services. Here are some key improvements:
- Strengthening our 24/7 community-based crisis response to be trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and supportive of all genders.
- Expanding mobile crisis teams to offer immediate help without involving law enforcement.
- Collaborating with local schools to prioritize student well-being through behavioral health services.
- Partnering with community providers to offer culturally competent care for underserved groups.
- Improving access to intensive services like Full-Service Partnerships and Assertive Community Treatment, which support housing, employment, and education.
- Investing in permanent supportive housing, adding at least 20 new units, and connecting 100 individuals to housing opportunities.
- Engaging with leaders from underserved communities to ensure we consistently meet resident needs.
We can’t do this alone. We’re working with experts like Sandra Sinz from County Behavioral Health Experience to guide us through the implementation process over the next three years. Tulare County Behavioral Health is focused on building a strong mental health system that provides essential care and resources for everyone in our community.
Check out this related article: Boosting Mental Health in Austin: Council Increases Funding for Integral Care Initiatives
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