| This study is a policy analysis of California's Mental Health Services Act of 2005. The Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) was designed to implement comprehensive policy initiatives, to address the need for an integrated public mental health service system within the state of California. Community mental health services have been found to be fragmented and under funded, leaving many individuals and families without access to needed care. This thesis includes a detailed historical review of mental health services on a national, and state level. This policy analysis, using Gil's (1992) social policy analysis framework, explores the evolution of the MHSA and its impact on the mental health treatment provided for citizens in the state of California. The prevalence of mental health issues within this society warrants current and comprehensive analysis of the policies that govern provision of services. Findings indicate that the MHSA serves to establish long-term funding, and ultimately transformation of the public mental health system in California. Social work implications will be discussed. |
