Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics: Expanding Access to Comprehensive Care in New Mexico
As we prepare to launch our Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) program expansion at All Faiths Children’s Advocacy Center, we are reimagining how mental health and substance use disorder services are provided in New Mexico. The CCBHC model is a groundbreaking federal initiative designed to make behavioral health care — which includes mental health and substance use treatment — more accessible, integrated, and effective for individuals of all ages.
A New Approach to Behavioral Health Care in Bernalillo County
Under traditional behavioral health care models, clients are often required to navigate different systems based on the type and severity of their conditions. In New Mexico, individuals with mild to moderate mental health needs might receive treatment through their Medicaid-managed care plan, involving referrals to outside providers. Those requiring more specialized care for severe mental illness or substance use disorders are often directed to county services, leading to delays and gaps in support.
The CCBHC model addresses these challenges by providing streamlined access to a full spectrum of mental health and substance use disorder services under one roof. Our programs will deliver coordinated, comprehensive care for clients of all ages — from children and teens to adults and seniors. We are dedicated to serving families, veterans, members of the LGBTQA+ community, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those who have experienced trauma such as domestic violence, human trafficking, and childhood abuse. This integrated approach ensures timely, tailored services that reduce barriers and improve outcomes for those who need it most.
Meeting the Needs of Our Community
Our clinic will be equipped to handle a wide variety of cases, offering services that include screening, assessment, and diagnosis, as well as risk assessment and crisis planning. From supportive counseling and therapy to intensive case management, we integrate these services under one roof to better address the physical and behavioral health needs of our clients. This coordinated care model is especially beneficial for individuals with co-occurring conditions, such as mental health issues coupled with substance use disorders, who often struggle to find effective, comprehensive care.
Expanding Our Services and Growing Our Team
To support the launch of our CCBHC, we are actively hiring a variety of skilled behavioral health professionals who are passionate about making a positive impact in the community. Our CCBHC initiative will play a vital role in expanding our services, allowing us to meet the growing demand for integrated behavioral health care in Bernalillo County.
Why This Matters
The shift to the CCBHC model represents a significant investment in the future of behavioral health care. This approach addresses long-standing gaps in the system by providing comprehensive, integrated services that prioritize early intervention and continuity of care. By offering a unified program, we can respond more effectively to the diverse needs of our community, reduce the burden on emergency services, and support clients in achieving lasting recovery. The CCBHC model is not just about improving individual outcomes; it’s about building a stronger, more resilient health care system that benefits everyone in the community.
If you are interested in joining our team or want to learn more about our upcoming CCBHC services, please visit allfaiths.org/employment-opportunities. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve and help transform behavioral health care in New Mexico.
Article Contributor:
Tania Valdez is the Chief Operating Officer of All Faiths Children’s Advocacy Center and a native New Mexican with over 20 years of experience supporting children and families in healing from developmental trauma. She specializes in Treatment Foster Care, Managed Care, and Adoptions, and serves as a member of the Adoptions & Foster Care Alliance of New Mexico. Tania holds a Master’s in Social Work from New Mexico Highlands University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).
