Frequently Asked Questions

Can I help select my therapist?
You may inform the staff person completing your initial assessment, or any other staff person assigned to you, that you would like to choose the person who will be providing your services. Providers may include those who provide services that meet your cultural needs. Whenever possible, your request will be filled.

What about confidentiality?
Communication between a client and anyone at Mental Health is privileged and cannot be discussed with anyone outside the department without written permission of the client, or a court order by a judge. Exceptions to this rule, as required by law, can be discussed with staff.

Are patients' rights to taken into considerations?
Most definitely yes! The Mental Health staff is committed to the preservation of client rights.
Some basic rights include the right to:
 - Dignity, privacy, humane care
 - Accept or refuse services
 - Informed consent about mediation and treatment
 - Confidentiality
 - Access to Patient's Rights Advocate

How much do I have to pay?
Fees at San Benito Behavioral Health are figured according to income on a sliding scale and other insurance coverage are accepted. You may ask about charges by calling the Behavioral Health Office at (831) 636-4020 during regular office hours.

How do I resolve complaints and problems?
Clients who are not happy with their services may talk with us, or write to us, and we will try to solve the problem. If you need assistance in presenting your problem or complaint, ask that the Administrative Supervisor to assist you. You will continue to get the same services while your problems are being solved.

What if I want to appeal denial of a service?
There is a State Fair Hearing process available to you, and you also are entitled to request a second opinion from a licensed mental health professional assigned by San Benito County Mental Health.

Where can I get more information?
Please see our "Client Problem Solution Guide" available in the Mental Health lobby. It tells the steps to take to tell us about your concerns.
For help, talk to your therapist, the Administrative Supervisor, the Mental Health Director, or the Patient's Rights Advocate.

What should I do if my friend is talking about suicide?
Encourage your friend to go to the Mental Health Department. Just walk in the door and ask for help. There is always someone who will talk to your friend. If your friend doesn't want to go to Mental Health, you can take him/her to the Emergency Room at Hazel Hawkins Hospital. The E.R. staff will call Mental Health and the on-call person will meet you a the hospital. If your friend won't accept either approach, and you are sure your friend is planning suicide, you can call local law enforcement for help. Law enforcement officers will help you get help for your friend.

What should I do if I am feeling so depressed I don't want to get out of bed in the morning, and I don't want to go out of the house or have people around or do anything?
Call Mental Health! After an initial assessment, you may be referred to see a physician for a medication evaluation. There are many helpful medications, and one may be helpful to you as you learn new ways to help yourself. You also may be referred to a counselor who can help you.