Pennsylvania - Department of Public Welfare

Close

DPW HelpLine
1-800-692-7462
Other Hotlines


Most Downloaded Forms

Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

Welcome to the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS).

OMHSAS Mission and Vision:

Every individual served by the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Service system will have the opportunity for growth, recovery and inclusion in their community, have access to culturally competent services and supports of their choice, and enjoy a quality of life that includes family members and friends.

OMHSAS Goals:

  • Transform the children’s behavioral health system to a system that is family driven and youth guided.
  • Implement services and policies to support recovery and resiliency in the adult behavioral health system
  • Assure that behavioral health services and supports recognize and accommodate the unique needs of older adults.

OMHSAS Guiding Principles
The Mental Health and Substance Abuse Service System will provide quality services and supports that:

  • Facilitate recovery for adults and resiliency for children;
  • Are responsive to individuals’ unique strengths and needs throughout their lives;
  • Focus on prevention and early intervention;
  • Recognize, respect and accommodate differences as they relate to culture/ethnicity/race, religion, gender identity and sexual orientation;
  • Ensure individual human rights and eliminate discrimination and stigma;
  • Are provided in a comprehensive array by unifying programs and funding that build on natural and community supports unique to each individual and family;
  • Are developed, monitored and evaluated in partnership with consumers, families and advocates;
  • Represent collaboration with other agencies and service systems.

Sherry H. Snyder, Acting Deputy Secretary
717-787-6443

Links to information and leadership contacts in each of our bureaus:

Information for Providers and Stakeholders

Information for Families and Individuals

Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services 2009-10 Budget Presentation