City of Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS) - Philadelphia, PA

General Overview

The Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS) is the City of Philadelphia's safety net agency responsible for a unified system of care. Located administratively at 1101 Market Street, this department does not provide direct clinical treatment on-site but rather oversees, funds, and coordinates a vast network of providers across the city. Its mission is to educate, strengthen, and serve individuals and communities so that all Philadelphians can thrive. DBHIDS operates on a population health model, focusing on recovery, resilience, and self-determination for residents facing mental health challenges, addiction, or intellectual disabilities.

Key Divisions and Functions

The department is comprised of several critical divisions that work in tandem:

• Division of Behavioral Health: Coordinates mental health services and addiction recovery programs (formerly the Coordinating Office for Drug and Alcohol Abuse Programs).
• Division of Intellectual disAbility Services (IDS): Administers services for individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism, focusing on early intervention and community living.
• Community Behavioral Health (CBH): Functioning as the department's managed care arm, CBH ensures that Medicaid-eligible residents receive necessary treatment and support.
• Behavioral Health and Justice Division: Works at the intersection of the justice and health systems to divert individuals with behavioral health needs away from the criminal justice system.

Crisis and Support Access

While this office is administrative, DBHIDS manages the city's 24/7 crisis response network. Residents in immediate distress should call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or contact the Philadelphia Crisis Line (215-685-6440). The department also deploys Mobile Crisis Teams and operates Crisis Response Centers (CRCs) at various hospitals throughout the city.

Visiting the Administrative Office

The headquarters is located on the 7th Floor of the Aramark Tower (also known as the Jefferson Building) at 1101 Market Street. This is a professional corporate environment. Visitors typically arrive for administrative meetings, provider trainings, or town halls rather than medical appointments. Note: Those seeking immediate medical care or shelter should not report to this administrative address but rather to a designated Crisis Response Center or intake site.

Security and Accessibility

As part of a large Center City office complex, the building maintains strict security. All visitors must check in at the lobby security desk, present valid photo identification, and be cleared before accessing the elevators to the 7th floor. The building is fully accessible, featuring ADA-compliant entrances and elevators.