Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, Georgia Department of - DBHDD

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) is a state agency dedicated to providing comprehensive treatment and support services for individuals facing behavioral health challenges and developmental disabilities. Established to ensure accessible, high-quality care, DBHDD operates across Georgia, offering a continuum of services that promote recovery, independence, and community integration.

Behavioral Health Services

DBHDD's Behavioral Health Division manages a network of community-based providers, delivering timely access to high-quality behavioral health treatment and support services. These services include mental health care, substance use disorder treatment, and crisis intervention.

A key resource is the Georgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL), available 24/7 at 1-800-715-4225, connecting individuals to trained professionals who assist in navigating appropriate services for mental health crises, substance use issues, and intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Developmental Disabilities Services

The Developmental Disabilities Division supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, providing opportunities for independent living and community participation.

DBHDD offers programs such as the New Options Waiver (NOW) and Comprehensive Supports Waiver (COMP), which assist eligible Georgians in accessing services that promote autonomy and quality of life.

Hospital Services

DBHDD operates five state hospitals located in Augusta, Columbus, Decatur, Milledgeville, and Savannah. These facilities offer inpatient adult mental health and forensic services as part of the department's continuum of care.

Patients receive comprehensive psychiatric and psychosocial assessments, leading to individualized recovery plans including supportive psychotherapy, group therapies, and medication management.

Efforts focus on transitioning individuals from hospital settings to community-based care, ensuring continuity and support.

Community-Based Services

DBHDD emphasizes community-based services through partnerships with over 600 providers statewide. These collaborations facilitate supports such as outpatient and residential treatment for substance use disorders, case management, and peer support programs.

The Georgia Collaborative Administrative Services Organization (ASO) plays a pivotal role in coordinating these person-centered and culturally sensitive services.

Locations

DBHDD operates regional field offices across Georgia, each managing a community-based system of care and coordinating with state hospitals to facilitate transitions into the community.

The department's main office is located at 200 Piedmont Avenue, S.E., West Tower, 14th Floor, Atlanta, GA 30334.

• Augusta, GA
• Columbus, GA
• Decatur, GA

Through its comprehensive services and statewide presence, the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities is committed to supporting individuals with behavioral health challenges and developmental disabilities, fostering recovery, independence, and community integration.