The Behavioral Health Board of the County of Santa Clara is
composed of members of the community at large, clients and family members of
clients of the behavioral health system. The board’s mission and duties are
established in the Welfare & Institutions Code 5604.2 and county law (see
Chapter VII, Sections A18 – 141 and A18 - 142). The duties include: review
and evaluation of the community’s behavioral health needs, facilities and
special problems; advising the Board of Supervisors and the County behavioral
health director as to any aspect of the County behavioral health program; and,
submitting an annual report to the Board of Supervisors on the needs and
performance of the County’s Behavioral Health System.
- Act as a
forum for clients, families and other constituents about the needs and
quality of services for the mentally ill.
- Work with
the director and staff of the Mental Health Department as an advisor to
provide input for planning programs and budgets prior to final decisions.
- Provide
to the Board of Supervisors an annual report of the Department of Mental
Health. Communicate to the Board of Supervisors as necessary in an ongoing
dialogue.
- Make
specific recommendations to assist the Board of Supervisors in making
decisions concerning mental health services.
- Collect,
review, and evaluate information about delivery of care for the mentally
ill provided by the Mental Health Department in order to understand and
evaluate services to clients that promote recovery, maintenance and return
to the community.
- Promote
outreach and education about mental health services.
- As
informed stakeholders, communicate pertinent information leading to
desired public policy outcomes at local, state and federal levels.
- Gain an
understanding of the etiology, diagnosis, treatment, and advancements in
the field of mental health.
- Recognize
people and organizations that have contributed to mental health.
Board Membership Information