Overview
Merced County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services (BHRS) provides an array of behavioral health and supportive services to the population of Merced County, living with a Serious Mental Illness or Substance Use Disorders.
BHRS provides a seamless system of care for our consumers through a collaborative network of County operated programs, County contracted agencies, and other community resources.
Services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year and can be accessed by appointment, walk-in, or by contacting BHRS crisis and emergency services.
The Behavioral Health Advisory Board (BHAB) is established, per WIC 5604, to review the community’s mental health needs and services, and make recommendations to the BHRS Director. The BHAB is comprised of 16-19 members, including Supervisor Pareira and representatives from each District.
Mission Statement
Behavioral Health and Recovery Services is committed to empowering our diverse community with hope, recovery and wellness by providing comprehensive holistic care.
Vision Statement
Inspiring hope and recovery for those we serve as the premier provider for quality whole person care.
Core Values
Humility ● Integrity ● Compassion ● Innovation ● Customer Service ● Inclusion
Who We Serve
Prevention and Crisis Services: ALL county residents regardless of insurance.
Focus Population
BHRS provides treatment and intervention services primarily for individuals on Medi-Cal or without insurance who:
- Are severely mentally ill
- Have substance use disorder
Merced County Population: 290,014
Total eligible Medi-Cal population: 156,219 or 53.8% of the county population
Total served by BHRS: 5,284 (or Penetration Rate of 3.38%);
Medium size counties: 3.49%;
State 3.96%
- Youth 0-17: 1,666
- Adults 18-64: 3,412
- Older Adults 65+: 206
*CY 2022 data
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
If you or someone you know needs support now, call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org

CredibleMind
CredibleMind is a free online platform that provides 24/7 confidential mental health and well-being resources.

The CredibleMind platform covers over 100 topics, spanning from: stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, mindfulness, coping with medical diagnosis, happiness, parenting, grief and loss, substance use, and aging. The platform allows users to maintain anonymity and track their improvement through assessments.