Placer County is seeking comunity input to guide county planning. Courtesy photo

AUBURN, CA (MPG) - Placer County is inviting residents to take part in two online surveys to help guide the county’s planning under California’s Behavioral Health Services Act. The surveys — one designed for behavioral health clients and their direct family members, and one for the broader community — will help identify strengths, gaps and priorities as the county prepares for this transition.

The Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA), updates and replaces the former Mental Health Services Act (MHSA). While MHSA focused solely on mental health, BHSA centers its services on Medi-Cal patients with the highest needs, including those experiencing severe mental illness, substance use and the chronically homeless or others needing housing services.

Under the Behavioral Health Services Act, more funding is tied to specific state-directed categories and outcome requirements, which means counties must align their planning more closely with statewide goals while still working to meet local needs. While former Mental Health Services Act was influenced by public input, this change also brings different requirements for planning, reporting and community engagement.

“Clients, family members, providers, educators, neighbors — everyone brings a different perspective, and all of it matters. Your feedback helps us understand what’s helping, what’s missing and what needs attention as we move forward,” said Julia Soto, Campaign for Community Wellness chair and acting Behavioral Health Services Act coordinator. “Your participation helps us elevate local voice in this process.”

The consumer survey (Spanish link) is intended for individuals who’ve received mental health, substance use services or housing supports in Placer County, along with their direct family members who help support care. This survey focuses on lived experience, access to services, barriers and opportunities to improve care and outcomes.

The community survey is open to the broader public, including partners, service providers, educators, advocates, civic groups and any resident interested in shaping future behavioral health systems. This survey addresses broader community needs, system strengths and shared priorities.

Both surveys are anonymous and take approximately 10–12 minutes to complete. Community members are encouraged to share the surveys with their networks over the next two weeks to help broaden participation.

Placer County will share updates about Behavioral Health Services Act planning as the process continues, including opportunities for public meetings and advisory groups. More information about Behavioral Health Services Act is available on the Campaign for Community Wellness website.