Quality Support Services Continues to Succeed With New Division Manager
Author: Frank Warren
Date:
7/26/2021 10:24:11 AM
The Behavioral Health Department welcomed Amanda Getten, LMFT as the Quality Support Services Division Manager more than a year ago and, despite the impact of the pandemic, the Division has shown outstanding success. Amanda has been an outstanding leader within the department since 2013.
Amanda has a master’s degree in Psychology from Cal Poly and, before returning to San Luis Obispo, she spent several years working as a clinician in Ventura County, where she specialized in youth crisis and mental health services. As a Program Supervisor for the Quality and Support Division she implemented walk-in screening services for outpatient mental health clients and has continued to develop innovative ways to increase access for the Medi-Cal eligible community.
Since taking over the Division, which acts as the “front door” to treatment, as well as managing all compliance and data requirements for the Department, Amanda has focused on improving access to mental health and substance use disorder services. By implementing universal screening for mental health and substance use, as well as telehealth assessments during the COVID-19 shelter period, Amanda’s team has won accolades from the State’s External Quality Review Organization which applauded the Department’s “thoughtfulness and considerations for improving & increasing client access."
Amanda has made equity and inclusivity a priority, addressing the disparities which keep people from accessing healthcare. The Department has improved its application for services by expanding demographic choices to better reflect the identities of its clients, and Amanda and her team have engaged more community members, including those with lived experience, to participate in reviewing the Department’s policies and procedures, as well as its performance.
“Amanda brings an inspiring ‘Whatever it takes’ attitude to ensure services meet the community’s needs, says Anne Robin, Behavioral Health Director.” Her wide knowledge of behavioral health policy and implementation strategies as well as expertise in contract management, state audits, documentation and reporting guidelines have proven to be an asset for the Department.
We are excited for the community to know Amanda and her success in moving the Department forward and monitoring the quality services Behavioral Health provides.