The Office of Behavioral Health (OBH) is committed to supporting a complete and coordinated behavioral health continuum of care. Children’s Behavioral Health Services (CBHS), within OBH, is working to expand services that help children with behavioral health disabilities get the right support at the right time and in the right place. When children can receive care at home and in their communities, they stay connected to the people and places that matter most. Being surrounded by family, friends, and familiar routines helps children heal, grow, and thrive.
Over the past year, CBHS has been laying the foundation for major system improvements—and this work is well underway. The Department is designing new processes, building data systems, and preparing providers and families for the changes ahead. Families will begin to see the benefits of these improvements as early implementation begins in 2026, including:
- A Single Assessment process to connect children to the right services quickly and consistently across Maine.
- Training and support for providers to strengthen the workforce and improve the quality of care.
- Enhanced care coordination to help families organize and manage services for children with diverse needs.
- Stronger mobile crisis and community supports so families can access help when challenges arise, reducing the need for out-of-home placements.
- A statewide public education campaign to raise awareness about children’s behavioral health and the services available to families.
This work is part of Maine’s commitment under the 2024 Settlement Agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice to ensure that children with behavioral health disabilities can receive the services they need in their homes and communities—rather than in residential or other out-of-home settings.
The Department remains deeply committed to helping children grow up safely at home and in their communities—where they can build stability, strengthen family connections, and reach their full potential.
Learn more about Maine’s progress in the initial Implementation Plan (PDF) on the CBHS website.