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Behavioral Health
Our Mission and Goal
To provide high quality, cost effective, and culturally proficient mental health care to all Medi-Cal beneficiaries who require specialty mental health services.
Our Goal - The Sierra County MHP offers a broad range of mental health, alcohol, and other drug (AOD) services to all residents of Sierra County. Our goal is to offer services in a supportive environment that focuses on recovery. Regardless of ability to pay, the Sierra County MHP provides emergency crisis assessments and other services.
Services
Our services include:
- Priority perinatal drug and alcohol treatment
- Alcohol and other drug assessments
- Case management services and referrals
- Individual and group alcohol and other drug counseling
- Medication management and services
- Mental health assessments
- Mental health individual and family counseling
- Nursing support
- Peer support services
- Psychiatric consultation
- Residential rehabilitation and/or detoxification services
- Veteran's Service Advocacy and Office
Cooperation With Other Entities
Sierra County’s Behavioral Health Department maintains contracts with reputable agencies outside of the county that provide quality intensive mental health and alcohol and other drugs services. If clinically necessary, placements outside of Sierra County are coordinated for persons of all ages.
Sierra County Mental Health Services
Sierra County Mental Health Services Provider Directory (Spanish)
Sierra County Mental Health Services Provider Directory (English)
This handbook is available in paper form without charge upon request (and is provided in 5 business days).
We review and update our Provider Directory monthly.
Sierra County Mental Health Plan
Mental Health Plan
Credible API information is publicly available here
List of currently available 3rd party apps which have passed Credible validation: Pending
Client Data Privacy Resource
The Patient Privacy and Security Resource provides information regarding best practices in choosing an app to view your health information data, patient rights under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, and what to do if you think your data has been breached or an app has used your data inappropriately.
TAR Processing Contact Information:
TAR submissions to Sierra County:
PO Box 265, Loyalton CA 96118; or
704 Mill Street, Loyalton CA 96118; or
Fax - 530-993-6759
Specialty Mental Health Services
Your regular doctor, sometimes referred to as your primary care physician (PCP), can provide some mental health services. However, sometimes mental health services need to be provided by a specialist. These services are referred to as “specialty mental health services.” These specialty services are provided through Sierra County Mental Health, which is separate from your regular doctor.
Partnership HealthPlan of California (PHC) Medi-Cal
Sierra County participates in a formal collaboration with Partnership HealthPlan of California (PHC) through a County Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The purpose of this agreement is to strengthen coordination of services for shared Medi-Cal members, improve communication between agencies, and ensure timely, efficient access to care.
Partnership HealthPlan of California (PHC) Medi-Cal County Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
Quarterly Collaborative Meetings
The County and PHC meet, at a minimum of four times per year to review coordination efforts, address service needs, share program updates, and monitor performance related to MOU requirements. These meetings support continuous quality improvement and alignment of member care.
Care Coordination
Both agencies work jointly to coordinate services for members who may be involved in multiple systems of care. This includes exchanging information in a secure and compliant manner, clarifying roles and responsibilities, and promoting seamless transitions between programs.
Referral Processes
Standard referral pathways between the County and PHC are maintained to ensure members receive the right services at the right time. Each referral includes appropriate follow‑up expectations, communication steps, and support for warm handoffs when needed.
Dispute Resolution
The MOU establishes a structured process for resolving coordination issues. Concerns are addressed first at the staff level, with escalation to supervisory or leadership roles if needed. The goal is timely and collaborative resolution that maintains continuity of services for the member.
Strategies to Avoid Duplication of Services
The County and PHC use coordinated planning, routine communication, shared assessments when appropriate, and clearly defined service roles to reduce overlap and prevent unnecessary duplication. These strategies support effective, efficient use of resources.
Collaboration and Member Engagement
Both agencies are committed to providing member‑centered, culturally responsive care. Engagement efforts focus on outreach, education, and supporting members in navigating available services. Feedback from members is welcomed and help guide improvement.
In 2025, Sierra County and Partnership met on the following dates:
3/17/2025 10:00 am
6/16/2025 10:00 am
9/15/2025 10:00 am
12/15/2025 10:00 am
For further information or feedback please contact Shanna D. Kuhlemier, CMC, QA/QI Compliance Officer.
Reports
Public Notice
Permanent Local Housing Allocation
PLHA Application and Plan