Family Support Specialists – Adult Services

Family Support Specialists of San Luis Obispo and North Santa Barbara Counties provide education, information, and assistance with navigating the public and private mental health systems. We create a caring, confidential environment that empowers family and friends to better understand and cope with the realities of chronic and persistent mental illness. All services are available in both English and Spanish.

Where Are Services Available?

San Luis Obispo and North Santa Barbara County

Who Can Participate?

Families, guardians, and caregivers with an adult loved one who has special mental health needs.

What Services are Provided?

Advocacy, support and education groups
Interaction with others who have similar challenges
Orientation for new families entering the mental health system
Referrals to additional programs and services that can offer assistance
Information from professional staff who attend regional and statewide meetings on current mental health policies and resources
Participation in planning programs and services

How Much Does it Cost?

The Family Support Specialist Program is a free service funded by San Luis Obispo County Department of Behavioral Health, Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness, and the Mental Health Services Act. No referral, CenCal, MediCal, or an open county mental health case is necessary.

How Do I Access Services?

Please complete this electronic intake and release form to be contacted by staff for program information and enrollment.

If you have any questions prior to being contacted, please reach out to the staff below.

San Luis Obispo County

Fernando Vasquez - Family Support Specialist San Luis Obispo (Se habla Español)
805-540-6574

Vivian Soul - Family Support Specialist San Luis Obispo
805-440-8141

North Santa Barbara County

Maria Perez - Santa Maria and Surrounding Areas (Se habla Español)
805-441-3325

Zandra Alfaro-Olea – Lompoc and Surrounding Areas (Se habla Español)
805-458-5487

For any questions, call Shawn Ison,
Family Services Program Manager
at (805) 540-6571