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Behavioral Health New & Updates for PCPs

Sep 22, 2026

Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Provider Availability and Other Resources

ABA Provider Availability Directory

Primary care providers have access to the CenCal Health ABA provider availability directory through a SmartSheet PDF. The directory reflects current provider availability and service details and is updated at least monthly to support timely and appropriate referrals.

If you have questions or need support helping members access mental health services, please contact CenCal Health’s provider line at 805-562-1600 or email your Provider Relations Representative. The CenCal Health is also available to search for a specific doctor or mental health specialist.

New Behavioral Health Care Coordination Form

CenCal Health updated the Behavioral Health Care Coordination form. Care Coordination serves as an additional resource for linking members to mental health services, alongside the CenCal Health Behavioral Health call center and provider directory. When a Behavioral Health Care Coordination form is submitted, it goes to a CenCal Health Navigator. Care Coordination forms are used for any member experiencing barriers or difficulty connecting to in-network CenCal mental health services (psychotherapy, medication management). Participation in Care Coordination is voluntary.

Check out the Quick Guide: Behavioral Health Care Coordination Process.

ADHD & Autism Evaluations Reminder

Supporting a member with possible ADHD or autism? Many in-network providers, including therapists and psychologists, can complete a clinical evaluation and provide a diagnosis without prior authorization. In most cases, the evaluation is the first step. If additional clarification is needed, psychological testing may be appropriate and requires prior authorization. To connect members with providers who specialize in ADHD and autism evaluations, submit a Care Coordination Request Form or have the member call 1-877-814-1861 for support.

Behavioral Health Member Outreach Flyer

Check out the Healing Starts with Asking for Help member outreach flyer for ways to access care. Providers can reach out to their assigned Provider Relations Representative to request flyers delivered to their office.

Quick Guide: Behavioral Health FAQs for PCPs

Check out the Behavioral Health Frequently Asked Questions Quick Guide for PCPs.

What to do if a Member is in a Mental Health Crisis

If a member is in crisis and needs urgent mental health care, please follow your emergency/crisis protocols, such as utilizing emergency services (911) or the member’s local county mental health mobile crisis team:

  • Santa Barbara County Access line: 888-868-1649.
  • San Luis Obispo County Central Coast Hotline: 800-783-0607.

See our quick guide on crisis services for more resources. www.cencalhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Mental-health-Crisis-Resources-for-Providers.pdf

Screenings

Primary care is often the first and only touchpoint for patients experiencing mental health or substance use concerns. When mental health screenings are completed, systems should be in place to connect patients to appropriate treatment options, including mental health specialists and follow-up care. See this quick guide on screening tools for more information.

See our ACES Screening webpage for screening tools, referrals, billing information, and more.

Additional Resources:

Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness developed an informational bilingual flyer that providers can use to discuss the benefits of staying on Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) long te