Office of Behavioral Health (OBH) - Augusta, ME

Maine Office of Behavioral Health

The Office of Behavioral Health (OBH), a vital agency within the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), acts as the state's primary authority for mental health and substance use disorder services. Located at 41 Anthony Avenue in the Augusta Business Park, this administrative office is responsible for the leadership, funding, and oversight of Maine's comprehensive behavioral health system. Formerly known as the Office of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHS), the agency works to ensure that all Maine residents have access to high-quality prevention, intervention, treatment, and recovery services.

System Oversight and Policy

OBH does not typically provide direct clinical treatment at this location but instead manages the statewide network of contracted providers and organizations. Their primary functions include policy development, contract management, and licensing oversight for behavioral health programs. The office coordinates care for uninsured and underinsured individuals and manages state and federal funding streams, including the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant. They ensure that community-based services are available to keep individuals out of institutional settings whenever possible.

• Mental Health Services: Coordination of adult community support, crisis intervention, and residential treatment programs.
• Substance Use Disorders: Oversight of opioid response initiatives, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) expansion, and recovery centers.
• Driver Education and Evaluation Programs (DEEP): Administration of the state's mandatory alcohol and drug education programs for OUI offenders.
• State Forensic Service: Management of forensic evaluations and services for individuals involved in the criminal justice system.

Crisis Response Coordination

While the Anthony Avenue office operates during standard business hours, OBH oversees the state's 24/7 emergency response systems. This includes the Maine Crisis Line (available by dialing 988 or 1-888-568-1112), which provides confidential support for anyone experiencing a mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts. The office also manages the Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP), a tool used to prevent opioid misuse and overdose. For administrative inquiries, provider relations, or questions regarding the Consent Decree, visitors and professionals should contact the main office directly.

Location and Accessibility

The OBH headquarters is situated in a professional office complex off Civic Center Drive, easily accessible from I-95. The facility offers free parking for visitors attending scheduled meetings or hearings. As a secure state government facility, visitors may be required to present valid identification upon arrival. Most public services, such as requesting records or applying for specific programs, can be initiated online or via telephone to ensure prompt assistance.