The Office of Consumer and Family Affairs (OCFA) Program

About the Program

Category: Health (Best in Category)

Year: 2009

The County of San Bernardino Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) strives to provide effective services that promote recovery and resiliency for individuals, families, and communities. The Office of Consumer and Family Affairs (OCFA) is an innovative program staffed solely by a consumer and family member employed by DBH as Peer and Family Advocates. The OCFA staff is instrumental in assisting consumers and family members overcome bureaucratic obstacles and receive services in a more effective and efficient manner. They contribute to implementing customer friendly policies and procedures regarding issues relating to successful integration into the workforce. They participate in trainings and provide input in developing workshops for DBH and contract staff relating to wellness, recovery, and resiliency. In addition, they attend weekly Executive meetings with the Director to discuss administrative issues. The OCGA receives referrals from administrative staff, the consumer’s treatment team, Patient’s Rights office, the National Alliance for Mental Illness, families, consumers, and faith-based communities. Families and consumers are linked to appropriate services for treatment and support. Consumers are assisted in learning to advocate and make choices to determine their path of recovery and achieve their life goals.