MHA Family Services provide compassionate, informed assistance for families, friends and loved ones of individuals with mental illness.

Mental illness can have a devastating effect on families and caregivers. That’s why our experienced staff offers direct, immediate support with the goal of providing relief and hope. We strive to improve quality of life, helping family members understand and cope with the realities of severe and persistent mental illness. We act as guides through the financial, legal and educational systems. In addition, we provide information and referrals to community resources in both San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties.

Family Advocates and Partners in Hope join in partnership with family members to work as a team to provide family members and caregivers with support in their journey with a loved one who has a mental illness. The Family Advocate Program serves in San Luis Obispo County, while the Partners in Hope program serves Santa Barbara County.

The Youth Family Partner program in San Luis Obispo County works as a team with the families and caregivers of minor children who have emotional and behavioral problems. Family Partners provide support, information and referrals necessary to improve the quality of life for families and their children.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Family-to-Family Education Program is a free, 12-week course offering education and support for family members whose relative or loved one has schizophrenia, major depression, bipolar disorder (manic depression), panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, borderline personality disorder, co-occurring brain disorders or addictive disorders. The class provides up-to-date information on the diseases, their causes, and treatments available, as well as help and coping tools for the caregiver or loved one.