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Department of Mental Health

Director's Office

The Office of the Director sets the direction for the Department of Mental Health under the advice of the seven-member Mental Health Commission appointed by the Governor. The Office of the Deputy Director is charged with internal audits, quality improvement, and deaf services. The Office of Public Affairs/Legislative Liaison disseminates information about mental health programs and reviews state and federal legislation.  The Division of Administrative Services provides management and fiscal support to the department.

Division of Behavioral Health

The Division of Behavioral Health supports alcohol and drug misuse prevention, treatment, and recovery services for individuals and families struggling with substance use disorders. Services are delivered through contracts with community-based agencies across the state. Treatment services include detoxification, outpatient treatment, and residential support when necessary.  The division also delivers psychiatric services to individuals with mental illness throughout the state.  Services are targeted primarily to persons with severe and persistent mental illness, children and youth with serious emotional disturbances, and people with mental illness who have been involved in the criminal justice system.

Division of Developmental Disabilities

The Division of Developmental Disabilities provides service coordination and support services to individuals with developmental disabilities such as intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, head injuries, autism, epilepsy, and certain learning disabilities in order to allow these individuals to live as independently as possible and stay connected with their communities.  The division provides these services through contracts with public and private agencies as well as with state-operated facilities.  Through this provider network, the division provides residential services for individuals who need a support structure ranging from complex medical and behavior settings to independent living.  The division also provides support services for individuals who live independently or with family and other services that provide training, address behavior issues, and provide therapies.