Behavioral Health Council

Our Journey In 2011, the New Orleans Health Department began exploring ways to strengthen the city's approach to behavioral health, addressing both mental health and substance abuse challenges. Working with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), we published "Behavioral Health in New Orleans 2012: Recommendations for Systems Change." This landmark report sparked the creation of the Behavioral Health Council.

The Behavioral Health Council Today Led jointly by the New Orleans Health Department and Metropolitan Human Services District, the Council unites providers, advocates, and consumers across the behavioral health community. Together, we're creating lasting, positive change in Orleans, Plaquemines, and St. Bernard parishes.

Our Purpose

The Council strives to build a comprehensive, coordinated behavioral health care system. We achieve this through community education, improved service coordination, and advocacy for effective policies. Our work focuses on strengthening connections between agencies, enhancing mental health services for all ages, and fostering better information sharing across the system.

Leadership

Our vision extends beyond traditional healthcare boundaries. We're committed to deepening community engagement, improving the continuum of care, and ensuring that every resident has access to the support they need. Through collaboration and innovation, we're building a stronger, more responsive behavioral health system for New Orleans.

Learn more about our partner, Metropolitan Human Services District, at www.mhsdla.org.

Behavioral Health Council: Our Focus Areas

Education​

  • We're building stronger support systems for New Orleans' school-aged children by uniting school and community partners. Our annual School Behavioral Health Survey helps identify available resources and gaps in services, ensuring students receive the support they need.

Criminal Justice

  • Through improved coordination between agencies, we're helping individuals whose behavioral health challenges lead to repeated justice system involvement. We're currently developing resources to help judges better understand and access treatment options for clients with mental illness.

Healthcare Systems

  • Our focus is on streamlining care coordination between inpatient and outpatient providers. We're creating clear pathways for patient care, particularly during hospital discharge, working closely with hospitals and managed care organizations to improve transitions. [View Emergency Department to Outpatient Pathway Report]

Housing Support Recognizing

  • The crucial link between stable housing and mental health, we address housing and homelessness challenges for individuals with behavioral health needs. Our current initiative includes developing support programs for case managers to prevent burnout and maintain quality care.

Each sector represents a vital piece of our comprehensive approach to behavioral health care in New Orleans, working together to create lasting, positive change in our community.