Mental Health Family Advocate
The Family Advocate for Mental Health Services provides assistance to family members under the supervision of the Deputy Director of Clinical Services. Empowering family supporters through advocacy, education and linkage to family-centered resources comprises the focus of this staff person. Family involvement and partnership with the client and mental health services facilitates pursuit of wellness, recovery and resilience.
The following are some of the services that can be expected from the Family Advocate:
- Encourage family participation in treatment direction or discussion
- Clarify the service roadmap and the staff involved in mental health services
- Inform families about the limits of family involvement in mental health services
- Identify safety concerns posed by belonging to a family affected by mental illness
- Receive and resolve family complaints and concerns regarding mental health services in Tulare County
- Encourage families to join the National Alliance of Mentally Ill (NAMI) Tulare County
- Assist families in searching for appropriate services for themselves as supporters
- Advocate for families as a group and facilitate improved communication with service providers
- Supply written resources and referrals to community resources available to help family members to cope and gain helpful information
The Family Advocate cannot:
- Provide therapy services needed by the individual or family members
- Divulge confidential information to family members without the individual served granting written consent for release of such information
- Force an ill family member to do anything against his or her will
- Take the place of a family member
- Make decisions for the family
For additional information, please contact:
5957 S. Mooney Blvd.
Visalia, CA 93277
(559) 737-4660 x2346