As a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) and through an equity and efficiency lens, CalMHSA implements and develops quality services and programs on behalf of 56 counties and 2 cities mental health and behavioral health delivery systems. Working together CalMHSA uses innovation and leverages resources to develop, fund, and implement behavioral health services, projects, and educational programs at State, regional, and local levels. At CalMHSA, we know that representation matters. CalMHSA’s diverse team members strengthen the organization and bring a diverse voice to all services and programs. CalMHSA is dedication to eliminating inequities, oppression, and racism begins within.
Team Members
Lucero Robles, MSW, LCSW
she/her
CMHEP Role: CMHEP Project Lead
Lucero Robles is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with two decades of experience in behavioral health service, advocacy, and community engagement on behalf of underserved and inappropriately served communities. As an experienced social worker with a focus on health equity, she brings her expertise to the California Mental Health Services Authority, CalMHSA, as the Director of Quality Assurance and Compliance. As an immigrant and a Latina, she is dedicated to implementing programs that support narrowing the gap in health equity.
Prior to joining the CalMHSA, as the Interim Behavioral Health Director in Monterey County, she successfully led the organization through COVID-19 efforts, while minimizing disruption to care. Her experiences include implementing behavioral health programs aimed at improving access to care and programs focused on providing quality care. Currently, she is leading the implementation of the Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Certification program at CalMHSA.
Michael Helmick
he/him
CMHEP Role: CMHEP Project Co-Lead
Michael, CalMHSA’s Senior Program Manager, has significant experience in behavioral health policy, advocacy, and community engagement on behalf of underserved, unserved, and inappropriately served communities. Throughout his career he has overseen numerous statewide, regional, and local efforts to ensure equitable mental health services for all communities. Michael started his passion for behavioral health access and culturally congruent care while serving as an executive staff for the Racial and Ethnic Mental Health Disparities Coalition (REMHDCO). Michael has been a constant champion of increasing access to culturally and linguistically appropriate services. Following his work with REMHDCO, Michael worked with the California Primary Care Association, where he led numerous policy initiatives, including Behavioral Health, on behalf of California Community Health Centers and Clinics who collectively serve California’s low-income, uninsured, and underinsured communities. Michael started with CalMHSA in November of 2019 and has overseen numerous statewide and local projects that seek to provide Californians with the strength and resilience to be their authentic self. In all his roles Michael has served as a liaison between statewide leaders and policy initiatives and Community-Based Organizations and Californians as a whole.