CalWORKs Mental Health Supportive Services
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What is CalWORKs?
CalWORKs is designed to help participants overcome mental health barriers which impede their ability to work and lead productive lives.
Program Services
Program services include case management, counseling, medication and crisis intervention for participants who have mental health barriers to employment. All services are delivered through a family focused approach.
In addition to providing direct services at the clinic, the staff may meet with clients in the community or link clients with appropriate resources for assistance. Interventions are focused upon helping to remove barriers to employment and encourage the development of positive self-esteem and family life.
Through the Department of Public Social Services, CalWORKs participants also qualify for vocational services which provide assistance in the areas of employment preparation, work adjustment, job coaching and job placement. Vocational services may be provided through DPSS/GAIN with additional services provided through Valley Employment Services, a program of the San Fernando Valley Community Mental Health Center, Inc. Additionally, an individual who is participating in the CalWORKs Welfare-to-Work Program, may receive extra assistance with child care, transportation and some work expenses while receiving mental health supportive services.
How a mental health barrier may be identified.
Mental health is reflected in the way a person thinks, feels and acts in order to face life’s situations. It is how one views oneself, one’s life, the people in one’s environment and how one evaluates choices. Mental health also reflects how a person copes with stress, relates to others and makes decisions.
Everyone experiences mental health problems at some point in their lives. Young people who are exposed to violence, loss of important people, neglect, physical, sexual or verbal abuse and trauma are more likely to be at risk for mental health difficulties.
Mental health problems are not anyone’s fault. The important thing is that someone who is experiencing these symptoms obtain help as quickly as possible in order to prevent the problems from growing.
How a participant can access CalWORKs Mental Health Services.
During the eligibility/application process a DPSS Eligibility Worker will ask the participant four questions about mental health. A “Yes” response to one or more of the questions will prompt a referral to a community assessment service center for an evaluation.
A participant may also walk into a community mental health clinic such as San Fernando Valley Community Mental Health Center, Inc. and request to be evaluated.
A participant may call Access (1-800-851-7771) which is a 24-hour number, answered by trained individuals and request to be linked to a geographically convenient mental health center.
Fees
CalWORKs participants are able to receive mental health supportive services at no cost to them.
Funding
The CalWORKs supportive services Mental Health Program is funded through a contract with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health.
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San Fernando Valley Community Mental Health Center, Inc.