New Hampshire Behavioral Health Planning & Advisory Council

Meeting information and resources for the State Behavioral Health Planning and Advisory Council (BHPAC)

The State Behavioral Health Planning and Advisory Council (NHBHPAC), required by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA), reviews and monitors the biennial Mental Health Block Grant plan. The council also monitors the mental health services and support system throughout the state.

Overview

The Council is made up of representatives from State agencies, representatives of advocacy groups for individuals living with mental health conditions and/or substance use disorder, service providers, individual advocates, individuals in recovery from serious mental illness and/or substance use disorders, family members of individuals in recovery from serious mental illness and/or substance use disorders, and parents/guardians of children with a serious emotional disturbance.

Meetings

The BHPAC meets quarterly (January, April, July & October) on the second Tuesday of that month from 9:30 am - 12:00 pm. These meetings are public.

Meetings are held in a hybrid format, where members can attend either in person or virtually. In-person meetings are held in Concord in the Fox Chapel, Main Building, 129 Pleasant Street.

Membership

BHPAC membership is comprised of interested individuals, including:

Individuals in recovery from serious mental illness (SMI) or serious mental illness and substance use disorders
Family members of individuals in recovery from serious mental illness (SMI) or serious mental illness and substance use disorders
Parents/guardians of children with a serious emotional disturbance (SED)
Representatives of Advocacy Groups for individuals living with mental illness
Service providers
Representatives from State agencies

Interested individuals are encouraged to apply using the BHPAC (Behavioral Health Planning & Advisory Council) Membership Application.

Committees

Operational Committee
Provides administrative support, membership coordination, and other tasks as needed.
Block Grant/Data Monitoring Committee
Advocates for mental health needs of adults in NH and makes recommendations to address gaps in policies and services.
Adult Advocacy Committee
Addresses issues including transitions, housing, stigma reduction, and workforce development. Prepares recommendations for future uses of the MHBG and reviews gaps in policies and services.
Children and Families Committee
Advocates for the needs of children, adolescents, and families of NH experience Serious Emotional disturbances. Reviews and makes recommendations about services for this population.