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About DBHR

In July 2009 the DSHS Division of Alcohol and Substance Abuse and the Mental Health Division merged to become the Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery - DBHR.  Through this integration,
we are in a better position to both assess and treat patients with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.  Our longer term vision calls for the fullest possible integration of behavioral health and primary care services under health reform, creating a person-centered health care home for all DSHS clients, to meet all of their health needs.

With our community, state and national partners, we are committed to providing evidence-based, cost-effective services that support the health and well-being of individuals, families and communities in Washington State.  During this economic downturn, we are fortunate to be able to demonstrate the economic, social, and health benefits  that result from providing quality behavioral health services, which far outweigh the costs of providing them (see Publications/Reports). These benefits include lower crime and criminal justice-related costs, lower medical costs, less reliance on public assistance, higher rates of employment and worker productivity, fewer children in need of foster care, and lower school dropout rates.