Behavioral Health & Recovery Services Blog

Sharing this information on behalf of the San Mateo County Pride Center:

Join us in celebrating the beauty, strength, and visibility of our trans, gender diverse, and non-binary community! This year, Trans Day of Visibility (TDOV) is on March 31st; however, we think one day is just not enough… so, Pride Center is proud to host our second Trans Week of Visibility from March 25th – March 31st! We have some exciting plans in store for you:  

• Legal Name & Gender Change Workshop: Learn how to update your identity documents, get assistance with filling out the court paperwork, and find answers to any questions you have about the process.
  • Wed. 3/26, 6-7:30pm- Online
  • RSVP: https://tinyurl.com/name-and-gender-change-rsvp
• Trans 101 Workshop: Want to better understand the relevant and pressing needs of the transgender and non-binary communities? This training offers in-depth conversations on topics such as transphobia, transitioning, being an ally to people of all gender identities and expressions, and more. We conclude this training with tips and tricks on how to be an advocate for the trans community as well as resources for continued learning.
  • Thu. 3/27, 6-8pm- Online
  • Register at: https://tinyurl.com/Trans101March2025
• Becoming More Visibly You: Gender Affirmation Workshop: Explore your expression; Learn style/contour tricks; Discover different options around hair and make-up; Browse our gender-affirming closet; Connect with your community; and know where to find local resources (HRT, voice coaching, and more).
  • Thu. 3/27, 5:30-7:30pm –In Person
  • RSVP: https://tinyurl.com/SMCPCVisiblyYou25
• A Mixer for Families of Trans Kids: Come join us for an evening with community. Meet other parents and caregivers of trans and gender nonconforming kids. The whole family is welcome. We will have icebreakers, a panel, and time to mix and mingle for the adults as well as activities for the kids.
  • Friday, 3/28, 6-7:30
  • RSVP: https://tinyurl.com/SMCPCFamilyMixer
• Trans Day of Visibility Be-YOU-tiful Celebration: Join us in a celebration of YOU. Wear your best and help us party the evening away. We will have snacks and a DJ. Register in advance for a chance to win our giveaway prize.
  • Monday, March 31st 5-7pm
  • RSVP: https://tinyurl.com/TDOVBeYOUtifulCelebration25
• Regular Pride Center Drop-in Hours: Come visit us in-person, “shop” in our free gender affirming closet for a new chest binder, trans tape, makeup, clothes, and more. Tues-Thurs, 11:30am-6:30pm. The Pride Center is located at 1021 S. El Camino Real in San Mateo, 94402. Our building is located at 11th and El Camino.
  • Accessibility Information:
    • All community members are required to wear masks when onsite. If you forget yours, masks will be available at the entrance.
    • We have a parking lot with a LIMITED amount of spaces. Please consider carpooling. The parking lot is located by our entrance on 11th between Palm St. and El Camino. In case the lot fills up, there is plenty of street parking.
    • There is a wheel-chair accessible entrance located at the parking lot entrance.
    • The center is one block north of the ECR & 12th Avenue stop for Samtrans 397 and ECR.
    • The center has two gender neutral restrooms. Both are single stall, are large and have railings.
    • This is currently not a scent-free/fragrance-free space. We strive to be scent/fragrance-aware.
    • The Pride Center is a weapon and substance free Sober space.  

Questions? Please contact info@sanmateopride.org. Please RSVP to events you can attend and share this with your networks!

Please see the latest issue of the Director’s Newsletter from BHRS Director, Dr. Jei Africa!

Topics include: 

• It Starts With a Call
• The Specialty Private Provider Network Matches Clients With Care
• Outpatient Utilization Management Drives Key Services Delivery
• Get to Know the Access Team

Find past issues here. Visit the BHRS website.

Please see the latest issue of the Director’s Newsletter, Advancing Health Equity, from BHRS Director, Dr. Jei Africa!

Topics include: 

• History of the Health Equity Initiatives
• BHRS Contract Monitoring Prioritizes Equity
• Advancing Language Access and Culturally Competent Services in BHRS
• Behavioral Health Services Act Update: Join the Transition Taskforce

Find past issues here. Visit the BHRS website.

Are you ready to transform your lived experience into a source of empowerment and positive change? The Lived Experience Academy (LEA) is an inspiring and supportive program designed for individuals with lived experience as consumers of behavioral health services—or as close relatives or loved ones. This academy offers participants the opportunity to leverage their personal journeys to make a lasting impact in their communities and within the Behavioral Health and Recovery Services (BHRS) system.

What You’ll Gain:

• Storytelling and Advocacy Skills: Learn how to share your story effectively and advocate for meaningful change.
• Supportive Peer Collaboration: Engage with a group of peers and facilitators who share similar experiences and are dedicated to mutual growth.
• Personal Empowerment: Embark on a journey of self-discovery and reflection, finding strength and wisdom in your lived experience.

Program Highlights:

• No Prior Experience Needed: Whether you’ve never written a story or spoken in public, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
• Stimulating Homework: Commit to 30–60 minutes of weekly assignments, including reflective writing.
• Safe and Supportive Environment: Join a collaborative group designed for those in a stable phase of recovery, ensuring a non-clinical, empowering experience.
• Incentive Stipend: participants that graduate will receive up to $240 after graduation.

Participant Expectations:

• Attend all classes attentively.
• Complete weekly assignments.
• Be ready for a rewarding, sometimes challenging, journey of personal growth.
• Commit to learning and sharing within a supportive community.

The LEA is not just a course—it’s an opportunity to channel your unique perspective into tools for advocacy and systemic transformation. Whether you’re new to the Academy or have previously been involved, we encourage you to apply or share this opportunity with others.

How to Apply:

Applications are now being accepted for our next session. The deadline to apply is Sunday January 19. Don’t miss this chance to make your voice heard and inspire change! Apply HERE.

Each year at the Women in County Government Recognition and Charity Luncheon exceptional women working in our government departments are recognized and honored. This year on December 9, BHRS celebrated awardee Christina Vasquez along with numerous nominations that were received to honor the outstanding dedication and service women have made to serve our communities. 

Congratulations to Christina Vasquez LCSW, Mental Health Program Specialist, for being honored as the Development Champion! 

This award is given to an individual who is distinguished by personal and professional development. As a result, she has helped others to shape a brighter future. She has taken on additional responsibility and has conquered it with style and enthusiasm. She is reliable, knowledgeable, and eager. She has demonstrated her desire and ability to reach, support, connect, and develop others. She is a friend and a tutor who fosters a greater understanding of self and is a trusted and supportive guide to others.    

In her nomination letter, colleagues shared this about Christina, “Christina is a bright light who finds purpose and meaning in her work and everyday life. Just shy of a decade, Christina came to San Mateo County as an extra help employee. She eagerly took on new challenges, for example, creating tip sheets and templates to create efficient workflows. She obtained her clinical license, LCSW and quickly promoted into a supervisory role. In this role she has continued to look for ways to improve workflows, improve quality of care for our patients, became trained and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) and promote growth and leadership in her supervisees and peers. She has been a tenacious leader for the Primary Care Interface in the county’s transition to Epic. Christina creates new paths and continues to grow as a person and clinician in the organization. Outside of BHRS Christina is a leader in her community involving herself on the school board and coaching youth soccer teams.”

Congratulations to the BHRS nominees: 

Development Champion 
Doris Estremera, Program Services Manager II 

Congratulations to all winners and nominees countywide and thank you for making a difference everyday for our workforce and those we serve! 

Please see the latest issue of the Director’s Newsletter from BHRS Director, Dr. Jei Africa!

Topics include: 

• 2024 Highlights
• 2024 Clients Served
• The Recovery Incentives Program: New Evidence-based CalAIM Benefit
• Recovery Connection Center Opening Builds Community, Sparks Gratitude

Find past issues here. Visit the BHRS website.

The Latino/a/x Collaborative (LC) at Behavioral Health and Recovery Services (BHRS) held its 11th annual Sana, Sana, Colita de Rana event on October 26 at the Boys and Girls Club of the Peninsula in Redwood City, with around 80 attendees. This year’s theme, “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together“, celebrated Latine leaders who have shaped American society and inspired future generations.

In the spirit of resilience and healing, the event provided a wealth of resources designed to support the well-being of the community. Health screenings, STI/HIV testing, vaccines and educational materials were available to ensure that individuals had access to essential services. A grief presentation by Kara offered valuable support for navigating loss, while Zumba dance therapy and free art activities provided an opportunity for self-expression, movement and joy—crucial elements of healing.

The day’s highlight was a powerful keynote speech by Dr. Belinda Hernandez-Arriaga of Ayudando Latinos A Soñar (ALAS), who inspired attendees with her dedication to empowering the Latine community. We were also honored to have Board of Supervisor Noelia Corzo and Mexican Consulate General Ana Luisa Vallejo Barba join us in celebrating the strength and resilience of the Latine community.

The event honored Latine leaders in San Mateo County who model the values of BHRS, advocating for diversity and equity. BHRS Health Ambassadors and peer support workers were recognized for their vital role in promoting health equity, guiding the community through healthcare systems and advocating for marginalized individuals.

Despite challenges like language barriers, economic disparities and systemic inequities, the Latino community has shown remarkable resilience. Moving forward, collaboration between healthcare providers, educators, local leaders and families is key to fostering health and wellness and dismantling access barriers.

In closing, the Latino community is a pioneer of change, building a more inclusive and equitable future for all. Let us continue to celebrate our cultural heritage while working towards a healthier tomorrow.

The Waves of Wellness: Family Function event was held on Saturday, November 2 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in San Bruno. This gathering was an opportunity to connect the Pacific Islander community, nurture health and celebrate the rich cultural heritage. With around 60 attendees, the event was a vibrant and joyful reflection of the power of unity and collective well-being.

In the spirit of health and healing, the event offered a range of resources designed to support physical, mental, and emotional wellness. Community members had access to free flu shots, Hepatitis B testing and health screenings provided by the UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center. The Xtreme Hip Hop session with Rock brought energy and fun to the day, while passport support services and additional resources aimed to empower attendees with the tools they need to thrive.

More than 10 community organizations were present, offering a variety of health-related and culturally relevant resources. Notably, the Behavioral Health and Recovery Services Pacific Islander Initiative (PII) and Samoan Solutions provided important information and support to attendees. These tables were a vital part of fostering a deeper connection within the community, offering healing services and raising awareness about critical health issues.

This event also highlighted the importance of cultural celebration and solidarity within the Pacific Islander community. It was an opportunity not only to share resources but also to honor the traditions and strength of the community. The day’s success was a reminder that when we come together—whether in celebration, support, or healing—we create lasting bonds and build a foundation for collective wellness.

The Waves of Wellness: Family Function event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Health Right 360/Asian American Recovery Services, Essence of Mana, the Wolverine Rugby Club, the San Francisco Environment Department and the San Francisco Hep B Free-Bay Area Organization. Their partnership, alongside the dedication of all involved, ensured that the event was a meaningful, impactful experience for all who attended.

Please see the latest edition of the Director’s Newsletter from BHRS Director, Dr. Jei Africa!

Topics include: 

• BHRS School-Based Mental Health Overview
• Canyon Oaks and Its One-Room School
• United for Youth Vision 2023, Blueprint for School and Transition Age Youth Well-being
• Addressing the Behavioral Health Workforce Crisis: Daly City Youth Health Center’s Innovative Approach

Find past issues here. Visit the BHRS website.

Wednesday October 16 was the 17th annual Housing Hero Awards! Each year, the Housing Hero Awards honor our community partners and colleagues who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in providing and/or maintaining housing for San Mateo County Residents with co-occurring mental health and substance use issues. This year, BHRS Deputy Director Talisha Racy gave a warm welcome and introduced the afternoon’s keynote speaker, Supervisor David Canepa. It was a heartwarming event, with three speakers sharing on how housing has directly impacted their lives. The importance of collaboration among providers was emphasized as a key factor in successful housing. Anyone interested in joining the 2025 Housing Heroes Committee can contact Kelsey Dattilo kdattilo@smcgov.org.

2024 Housing Heroes:

1. Julie Huynh (Administrator), Jenny Lambarte (Residential Services Manager), and Nick Samudio (Mental Health Support Services Manager) of Drake House, Front St. Inc. RCFE (Residential Care Facility for the Elderly).
2. Sayoko Yoshimura (Director) and Kendra Ceccato (Assistant Director) of Caminar Hawthorne House.
3. Victoria Asfour of SMPD Homeless Outreach.
4. BHRS Pathways Team.
5. Evangeline Griepenstroh, Independent Landlord
6. Lastly, the recipient of the Carole Groom Housing Leadership Award, given to an individual or organization that has demonstrated exceptional leadership, creativity, and dedication to developing affordable, safe, and supportive housing for our County’s most at-risk populations, was awarded to Everst Barillos of Blanca’s Place Board and Care.