PA Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) – Harrisburg, PA

State Mental Health Administration

Agency Overview

The Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) is a deputate within the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. Located at the Commonwealth Corporate Center on Azalea Drive, this office acts as the administrative authority for Pennsylvania’s behavioral health system. While it does not provide direct clinical therapy to patients at this administrative location, it is responsible for licensing, regulating, and funding the county-based mental health and drug and alcohol programs throughout the state. OMHSAS works to ensure that every individual, regardless of their ability to pay, has access to quality behavioral health services.

Key Functions

• Policy and Planning: Developing regulations and strategic plans for the state’s mental health system.
• Licensing: Inspecting and licensing psychiatric facilities and residential treatment centers.
• Children’s Services: Overseeing behavioral health programs specifically for youth and adolescents.
• Managed Care Oversight: Monitoring the HealthChoices behavioral health program for Medicaid recipients.
• Consumer Advocacy: Promoting recovery-oriented systems of care and supporting family advocacy groups.

Facility Access

This location serves as an administrative headquarters. Visitors are typically state employees, county administrators, or service providers attending meetings. It is not a walk-in clinic for urgent mental health crises. Individuals in immediate crisis should contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or their local county crisis intervention service. For administrative business, the building is a secure state facility requiring identification for entry.