The Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS) employs about 1,070 people - that’s about half of the number of people who work for the County of Humboldt.

The department provides direct services to more than 35,000 per year. Indirectly, every one in the county benefits at one time by services provided by DHHS. For example: restaurant and kitchen inspections are done by department staff; life jacket and water safety programs are provided by department staff and immunizations and flu shots are provided by department staff.

The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services is receiving national attention as a model for integrated services. It is one of eleven counties in California authorized to operate in this manner.

After legislation was passed at the state level, Humboldt County started making changes in 1999 by bringing Mental Health, Public Health, and Social Services into one department. It is one of eleven counties in California to participate.

Federal, state and county officials have recognized the need for reforms that mean more than simply "improving" services. As an example of one of those reforms, an Office of Consumer and Cultural Diversity has been set up to address the needs of clients in a culturally sensitive manner.

The planning process has allowed the department to get a head start in reaching some of the requirements of the Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) which was passed by California’s voters in 2004.

One component of the MHSA is "prevention and early intervention." Due to the reform measures started in 1999, the department already has programs in place designed to prevent child abuse and neglect, substance abuse and family conflict. In the past, the system was based on reaction to child abuse and neglect.

Two examples of the new programs:

1. Incredible Years was started in 2004 with the goal of giving parents the tools they need to deal with children ages two to 12 who have behavior problems.
2. Functional Family Therapy provides treatment for at-risk youth ages eleven to 18 by including their entire families in the therapy program.

Long-term goals have been set that will ensure all children and youth who come in contact with the department receive mental health services or referrals if needed.

The department is also working with community partners to decentralize services. The department has contracts with Family and Community Resource Centers with the purpose of providing improved services county-wide. There are new efforts to strengthen families, improve children’s safety and help adults with self-sufficiency and recovery issues.

Additional Links
AB 315 Strategic Plan - June 2008
Integrated Services Initiative Progress and Trends Report - Autumn 2009
Notice of Privacy Practices