The County’s Community Assistance, Recovery and Empowerment (CARE) Act program has surpassed its 200th CARE agreement, marking a major milestone in the County’s efforts to support residents living with untreated schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders.
The County of San Diego now oversees 20% of all CARE agreements statewide.
“We continue to be inspired by the courage and growth we’re seeing from CARE participants,” said County Behavioral Health Services Director Nadia Privara Brahms. “We’re incredibly proud of the individuals who are taking meaningful steps to change their lives. These are exactly the kinds of outcomes we hoped for when we launched CARE as a pilot program with our partners at the Court and the Public Defender’s Office.”
The CARE Act is a voluntary mental health treatment pathway for adults 18 and older. Participants are actively involved with their care teams in creating a personalized agreement and recovery plan that may include mental health treatment and housing stabilization services.
Since enrolling its first clients two and a half years ago, the County’s CARE program has celebrated 44 graduates, more than any other county in California. Group graduation ceremonies are held quarterly, with private ceremonies available upon request.
These ceremonies recognize the accomplishments of participants and the strong collaboration between the County’s Behavioral Health Services, the Public Defender’s Office, Superior Court and community partners.
“The 200th CARE Agreement is a genuine reflection of the commitment and dedication displayed by all the parties in CARE Act proceedings,” said San Diego Superior Court Presiding Judge Michael S. Groch. “The participants, their family members, their care teams, and the attorneys involved work together to bring positive outcomes and lasting change.”
One recent graduate and her family shared their heartfelt gratitude for the program. Before entering CARE, the participant had cycled through numerous housing placements, multiple arrests, and consistently declined treatment and medication. Her brother believed only a conservatorship could keep her safe. After completing CARE, she is thriving—returning to school, reconnecting with family, staying engaged in treatment, current on her medications and supported proudly by her brother, now her strongest advocate.
Learn more about the CARE Act program.
