National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors

The technical assistance coalition assists state mental health authorities in planning for and expanding community mental health services and in meeting the challenges of system changes required as a result of health care reform. It also facilitates the dissemination and adoption of specialized technical assistance that positions the mental health service system to support the coming health reform system change.

Association Membership: NASMHPD serves as the national representative and advocate for state mental health agencies and their directors and supports effective stewardship of state mental health systems. NASMHPD informs its members on current and emerging public policy issues, educates on research findings and best practices, provides consultation and technical assistance, collaborates with key stakeholders, and facilitates state to state sharing. NASMHPD 's vision is that mental health is universally perceived as essential to overall health and well-being with services that are available, accessible, and of high quality. Recovery and resiliency are the overall goals and certain fundamental values guide NASMHPD in its mission, which include person and family centered, integration of health and mental health services, attention to prevention and early intervention, community integration, and emphasis on diversity. NASMHPD members play a vital role in the delivery, financing, and evaluation of mental health services within a rapidly evolving healthcare environment. The principal programs operated, funded, and/or regulated by NASMHPD members serve people who have serious mental illnesses, developmental disabilities, and/or substance use disorders. This role impacts many other constituencies as well. In recognition of these mutual interests, NASMHPD has effectively responded to, and collaborated with, other organizations and individuals including those representing consumers, families, and state mental health planning and advisory councils. The association provides members with the opportunity to exchange diverse views and experiences and learn from one another in areas vital to effective public policy development and implementation.