California Expands Mental Health Care After LA Fires

One year after fires tore through Southern California communities, Governor Gavin Newsom assured that his administration remains committed to expanding mental health and behavioral health treatment for survivors.

Newsom reiterated that mental health resources remain a top priority throughout the Golden State including Los Angeles County. State leaders hope to improve Angelenos’ resilience during this season of recovery.

Progress in Mental and Behavioral Health Care

Kim Johnson is Secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency. She added that her agency had seen progress in the first year of making mental health and recovery services available.

However, Johnson also noted that families who’ve dealt with the firestorm’s fallout may have more difficulty as the anniversary comes around.

She urged children, young people and families to reach out to BrightLife Kids and Soluna for early mental health and behavioral health support. Johnson also reminded the public to contact emergency services and preventive interventions before a crisis hits.

Resources to Lean On

Rounding out Newsom’s statement is a list of all the departments and resources for mental health, behavioral health and specialized rehabilitation care.

Among these are Resiliency Centers and the Crisis Counseling Program. Officials have also reopened several treatment centers and reduced red tape to make care easier to access.

While the CCP focuses on crisis stabilization, both programs connect individuals to addiction treatment and dual diagnoses services. The CCP is set to run only until mid February while the two Resiliency Centers will remain open at least until June.

CalHOPE services, Youth Behavioral Health Initiatives and the Friendship Line remain dedicated to aiding anyone receive crucial mental health support.

Explore Behavioral Treatment Centers Near You

If you or a loved one needs mental health services, you can look for treatment centers in your area to get started with treatment. You can also call 800-908-4823 (Sponsored) for additional support.