OBHA Newsletter
March 9th, 2026
Quote of the quarter:
“Behold, my friends, the spring is come; the earth has gladly received the embraces of the sun, and we shall soon see the results of their love!” — Sitting Bull
Who we are and what we do
The Office of Behavioral Health Advocacy (OBHA) supports individuals, their families and/or supports who are being served and supported in the Washington State behavioral health system. OBHA uses a trauma-informed approach to enhance behavioral health awareness, promote self-empowerment, and increase access to services.
The work of OBHA is based on the desired outcomes expressed by participants.
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We provide information, resources, consultation, and support to all community members and assist with complaints, grievances, appeals, Mental Health Advance Directives, and the Fair Hearings process.
Learn more about the OBHA on the Washington State Legislature site HERE.
Behavioral Health Community Forums
Each region hosts a monthly Behavioral Health Community Forum to find out about trends and services happening in their region. What's going well? Where can we improve? What are your biggest barriers to providing or receiving care? What is needed? This is a place to share your ideas and resolutions. Go to this link and select your region to find out when your community forum is happening.
Tips & Tricks: Self Care​​​
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​1.) Taking a break from social media has proven to reduce stress and anxiety, enhance self-esteem, and improve overall mood.
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Start by setting a limit of certain hours a day, turning off notifications, and progressing to taking a single day off a week and working up to taking a full week off.
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For more information, see: https://www.geisinger.org/health-and-wellness/wellness-articles/2024/12/26/17/20/social-media-break
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2.) Practicing gratitude has significant benefits in improving mental health. Research shows that it has a tangible effect on the brain, from enhancing emotional resilience, improving relationships, to reducing stress and anxiety.
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One helpful way to practice gratitude is to keep a gratitude journal or create a gratitude jar. Write down what you are thankful for each day, and you can read them when you are having a bad day.
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For more information, see: https://oaksintcare.org/the-benefits-of-practicing-gratitude-for-mental-health/
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3.) Coping with heavy experiences​​​ - In today's world, we are often exposed to stressful and/or traumatic situations. It is important to allow yourself to sit with and release the stressors of the day. Some tips to help release stress include:
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Use visualization techniques to picture the stress you are carrying. Picture the stress seeping down into the ground under your feet, rooting you and helping you feel more grounded and stable.
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Shake it off – physically shake your body to release some of the stress and pressure you are carrying.
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Talk to a trusted support person. Even the strongest person needs help sometimes.
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Resource Spotlight:
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HearMeWA - https://hearmewa.org
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24/7 helpline for youth up to 25 years old - 888-537-1634
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HearMeWA is a program for young Washingtonians up to the age of 25 created by the WA State Attorney General's Office. They're committed to being antiracist, trauma-informed, and youth-centered in the services we offer. Youth and youth-serving organizations are at the center of this program and help inform the work that we do. Trained crisis counselors will field all calls.
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HearMeWA helps Washington youth under 25 find support when they are not sure where to turn, no matter where they live.
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It started in 2016, when college student Conner Mertens spoke out about the youth mental health crisis in his hometown of Kennewick. He then started working with local leaders on potential solutions.
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In 2021, thanks to his idea and efforts, the state gave funds to the Attorney General's Office to create a program for the safety and well-being of Washington youth.
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In 2024, young people statewide helped create and launch HearMeWA – a 24/7 helpline dedicated to youth-centered, trauma-informed, and antiracist values.
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North Central Team Spotlight:
Janeli Sanchez, Advocacy Coordinator and Marlene Curiel,
Behavioral Health Advocate.
Behavioral Health Advocate Marlene Curiel Q&A
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Q: What's one random fact that you know?
Marlene: In Washington State, it is illegal to catch fish by throwing rocks at them.
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Q: What brought you to this work?
Marlene: I joined this work because I am an individual with lived experience who has a passion for helping others. I also hope to pursue a degree in law, as I believe systemic change occurs within law and policy.
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Q: What are you passionate about?
Marlene: I am passionate about advocating for the resources that individuals need and the quality of services they receive.
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Advocacy Coordinator Janeli Sanchez Q&A
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Q: What's one random fact that you know?
Janeli: One random fact that I know is that cows have four stomachs!
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Q: What brought you to this work?
Janeli: I joined this work because of my personal struggles with anxiety and depression. My experience with mental health therapists and medication management establishes me in a position to deeply understand the individuals we serve.
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Q: What are you passionate about?
Janeli: I am passionate about increasing low-income housing and decreasing the number of unhoused individuals or those in danger of becoming unhoused.
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Artist credit:
The Awkward Yeti
Like what you see? Click below to explore more and follow the artist!
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Information Spotlight:
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SMART Goals:​​​​
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We've all heard the phrase "New year, new me."
Most of us have created a long list of New Year's resolutions, wanting to accomplish them all, but more than likely, we don't. And it's never too late to start! We can succeed in accomplishing our goals when they are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART).
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SMART Goals are:
Specific: What steps can I take to achieve it?
Measurable: How are you measuring your progress? Include a timeline, an amount, or a quantity.
Achievable: Be realistic and proud of starting small.
Relevant: What is the reason you want to accomplish this goal? What is your "why"?
Time-bound: Give yourself a finish line.
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For example, instead of the goal, "I will find a new hobby this year." Try: "By May 31, I will try at least 3 new hobbies that fit my schedule, budget, and physical ability and choose one hobby to do weekly to improve my mental health, reduce stress, and add more enjoyment to my life."
Learn more by watching this video: How to Write a SMART Goal
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Mental Health Advance Directives:
Mental Health Advance Directives (MHADs) are a compassionate way to have your voice honored during a mental health crisis—especially if there’s a time when you’re unable to speak for yourself. An MHAD allows you to document your treatment preferences, medications, providers, and trusted decision-makers in advance, helping ensure care aligns
with your values, needs, and lived experience. Creating one can offer peace of mind for you and clarity for the people supporting you.
Next Steps
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Complete your Mental Health Advance Directive when you are feeling stable and supported.
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Share a copy with your health care providers so your preferences are known and accessible.
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Share a copy with at least one trusted person who can help advocate for your wishes if needed.
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Keep a copy for yourself in a place that is easy to access.
Learn more and access forms:
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Washington Law Help – Mental Health Advance Directives:
https://www.washingtonlawhelp.org/resource/mental-health-advance-directives
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Washington State Health Care Authority – Mental Health Advance Directives:
https://www.hca.wa.gov/free-or-low-cost-health-care/i-need-behavioral-health-
support/mental-health-advance-directives
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Media Spotlight:
"Numb Little Bug" by Em Beihold
Written during a very busy time in Em's life, "Numb Little Bug" depicts the feelings of numbness that so many people on mental health medications deal with daily. This song captures the feeling of "being tired of life" and just trying to survive even when good things are happening but not feeling fully "alive" or connected to those emotions.
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OBHA Newsletter
December 15th, 2025
Who we are and what we do
The Office of Behavioral Health Advocacy (OBHA) supports individuals and their families who are being served and supported in the Washington State behavioral health system. OBHA uses a trauma-informed approach to enhance behavioral health awareness, promote self-empowerment, and increase access to services.
The work of OBHA is based on the desired outcomes expressed by participants.
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We provide information and resources to all community members and assist with complaints, grievances, appeals, Mental Health Advance Directives, and the Fair Hearings process.
Learn more about the OBHA on the Washington State Legislature site HERE.
What do we need from you?
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Details about the issue.
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Explain what the resolution would look like.
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Maintain contact with the behavioral health advocate.
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Communicate with the OBHA Team with dignity and respect.
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Complete the Release of Information and Authorization to Represent forms.
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If calling from an inpatient facility, we will need your Access/Patient ID number. If you would like a return call after you are discharged, please provide an additional contact number outside of the facility in the event you want us to continue services or follow up when you are discharged.
Events Calendar
Each region hosts a monthly Community Forum to find out about trends and services happening in their region. What’s going well? Where can we improve? What are your biggest barriers to providing or receiving care? What is needed? This is a place to share your ideas and resolutions. Go to this link and select your region to find out when your community forum is happening.
Click here to learn more about your regional team.
Tips & Tricks: Helping Hands
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Carry a box of handwarmers, granola bars, Chapstick, water bottles, and/or other necessities in your car so you can hand them out to folks asking for a little support on the side of the road.
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Go to this link to find Narcan near you - https://doh.wa.gov/you-and-your-family/drug-user-health/naloxone-finder.
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Donate to your local food bank – find your local food bank here.
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Donate warm clothing to shelters and programs that support unhoused communities.
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Challenge yourself to say at least one kind word to a stranger every week.
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Quote of the quarter:
“One kind word can warm three winter months.” — Japanese Proverb
Resource Spotlight:
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Libraries
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Free:
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Books
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Music
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Videos/Movies
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Computer/internet access
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Printing
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Events calendars
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Storybook hours for children
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Some libraries even let you rent Discover passes, gardening tools, AV equipment, and all sorts of other resources – just ask your local librarian!
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Find your local library here: https://librarytechnology.org/libraries/public.pl?State=Washington.
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Media Spotlight:
Andrea Gibson – “The Nutritionist”
The nutritionist said I should eat root vegetables.
Said if I could get down thirteen turnips a day
I would be grounded, rooted.
Said my head would not keep flying away
to where the darkness lives.
The psychic told me my heart carries too much weight. Said for twenty dollars she’d tell me what to do. I handed her the twenty. She said, “Stop worrying, darling. You will find a good man soon.”
The first psychotherapist told me to spend
three hours each day sitting in a dark closet
with my eyes closed and ears plugged.
I tried it once, but couldn’t stop thinking
about how gay it was to be sitting in the closet.
The yogi told me to stretch everything but the truth.
Said to focus on the out-breath. Said everyone finds happiness when they care more about what they give than what they get.
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The pharmacist said, “Lexapro, Lamictal, Lithium, Xanax.”
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The doctor said an anti-psychotic might help me
forget what the trauma said.
The trauma said, “Don’t write these poems.
Nobody wants to hear you cry
about the grief inside your bones.”
But my bones said, “Tyler Clementi jumped
from the George Washington Bridge
into the Hudson River, convinced
he was entirely alone.”
My bones said, “Write the poems.”
Read more of Andrea’s work here: https://andreagibson.org/
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Team Spotlight:
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Like what you see? Click below to explore more and follow the artist!
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Artist credit:
The Awkward Yeti
CBC News:
Seasonal Affective Disorder
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OBHA Newsletter
September 18th, 2025
Who we are and what we do
The Office of Behavioral Health Advocacy (OBHA) supports individuals and their families who are being served and supported in the Washington State behavioral health system. OBHA uses a trauma-informed approach to enhance behavioral health awareness, promote self-empowerment, and increase access to services.
The work of OBHA is based on the desired outcomes expressed by participants.
We provide information and resources to all community members and assist with complaints, grievances, appeals, Mental Health Advance Directives, and the Fair Hearings process.
Learn more about the OBHA on the Washington State Legislature site HERE.
OBHA Purpose, Mission, & Vision Statements
Purpose:
The Office of Behavioral Health Advocacy is based on desired outcomes expressed by individuals. OBHA practices trauma-informed consultation and support to individuals, their families, supporters, and the community. We assist with complaints, grievances, appeals, administrative hearings, and Mental Health Advanced Directives (MHAD).
Mission:
The mission of the Office of Behavioral Health Advocacy (OBHA) is to promote positive change and uplift the voices of individuals receiving behavioral health services, their families, supporters, and the community in the state of Washington.
Vision:
The Office of Behavioral Health Advocacy (OBHA) maintains an impartial stance while assisting individuals, families, supporters and communities in navigating needs and concerns related to the Washington State behavioral healthcare system.
Events Calendar
Each region hosts a monthly Community Forum to find out about trends and services happening in their region. What’s going well? Where can we improve? What are your biggest barriers to providing or receiving care? What is needed? This is a place to share your ideas and resolutions. Go to this link and select your region to find out when your community forum is happening.
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If you’re interested in other events in your area, please see this community calendar from our friends at Washington State Community Connectors (WSCC).
Staff Spotlight:
Angela Kennedy,
Advocacy Coordinator for the Southwest Region
Day in the Life of an Advocacy Coordinator as written by Angela Kennedy
When an individual first reaches out to the Office of Behavioral Health Advocacy (OBHA), they will speak to an Advocacy Coordinator (AC). Advocacy Coordinators are people with lived experience navigating the behavioral health system and who understand how challenging it can be to find pertinent information, behavioral health resources, or even clarity on our rights in Washington. The AC will gather information from the individual and, through a trauma-informed lens, collaborate with them to reach a resolution at the lowest level possible.
Sometimes an individual may reach out for services that are beyond the scope of the OBHA. That's ok! At OBHA, we have a "no wrong door" policy. This means we will do our best to connect them directly to the resources within the community that best suit their needs. Doing so eases the burden of endless searches for the individual and could help prevent re-traumatization of telling their stories repeatedly. The Advocacy Coordinators work alongside the Behavioral Health Advocate in the event a grievance is requested. In such instances, the AC will provide the regional advocate with information provided thus far and connect the parties involved. Our hope is that each connection made results in a satisfactory resolution.
Want to know more about the team that serves your region? Link here.
Youth rights in behavioral health:
Read our presentation on youth rights in behavioral health. Created by our Thurston-Mason Advocacy Coordinator, Alex Baccus.
What do we need from you?
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Details about the issue.
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Explain what the resolution would look like.
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Maintain contact with the behavioral health advocate.
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Communicate with the OBHA Team with dignity and respect.
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Complete the Release of Information and Authorization to Represent forms.
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If calling from an inpatient facility, we will need your Access/Patient ID number. If you would like a return call after you are discharged, please provide an additional contact number outside of the facility in the event you want us to continue services or follow up when you are discharged.
Quote of the quarter:
“If you are always trying to be normal, you’ll never know how amazing you can be.” — Maya Angelou
How to Self-Advocate – Tips & Tricks
for Youth
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a. Build a relationship with a trusted adult who can help advocate for your needs.
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b. Youth have the right to ask for a different provider, request a private session, and participate in decisions about their care (especially youth 13-17).
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c. Use visual tools and/or apps to track appointments, medications, or feelings.
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d. Ask questions and speak up for yourself: "I need time to think about that." "Can you explain that differently?" "I am not comfortable with that option."
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Resource Spotlight:​
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​Office of the Education Ombuds:
Supports youth and families with questions and concerns related to K-12 public education.
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​Phone number: 1-866-297-2597
Website: https://www.oeo.wa.gov/en
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​​Office of the Family & Children's Ombuds:
Supports families and youth involved with DCYF and the foster care system.
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Phone number: 1-800-571-7321
Website: https://ofco.wa.gov/
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Media recommendations of
the quarter:
Book recommendation:
The Teenage Brain: A Neuroscientist’s Survival Guide to Raising Adolescents and Young Adults.
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Underbelly app:
Yoga for body acceptance, self-love and accessing your inner power.
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Habitica app:
Turns self-care habits into a game!
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Calm app:
Meditation for beginners!
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Headspace app:
Mental health app with expert-led meditations and tools.
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TED Talk:
Peer Support and Youth Mental Health - This Is Real | Haylee Bass | TEDxYouth@CherryCreek
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OBHA Newsletter
May 16th, 2025
Who we are and what we do
The Office of Behavioral Health Advocacy (OBHA) supports individuals and their families who are being served and supported in the Washington State behavioral health system. OBHA uses a trauma-informed approach to enhance behavioral health awareness, promote self-empowerment, and increase access to services.
The work of OBHA is based on the desired outcomes expressed by participants.
We provide information and resources to all community members and assist with complaints, grievances, appeals, Mental Health Advance Directives, and the Fair Hearings process.
Learn more about the OBHA on the Washington State Legislature site HERE.
OBHA Purpose, Mission, & Vision Statements
Purpose:
The Office of Behavioral Health Advocacy provides trauma-informed consultation and support to individuals, their families, supporters, and the community. We assist with complaints, grievances, appeals, administrative hearings, and Mental Health Advanced Directives (MHAD).
Mission:
The Office of Behavioral Health Advocacy (OBHA) maintains an impartial stance while assisting individuals, families, and communities in navigating their needs and concerns related to behavioral health services throughout Washington State.
Vision:
The Office of Behavioral Health Advocacy (OBHA) aims to promote positive change and amplify the voices of families, supporters, communities, and individuals in behavioral health services across Washington State.
Events Calendar
Each region hosts a monthly Community Forum to find out about trends and services happening in their region. What’s going well? Where can we improve? What are your biggest barriers to providing or receiving care? What is needed? This is a place to share your ideas and resolutions. Go to this link and select your region to find out when your community forum is happening.
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If you’re interested in other events in your area, please see this community calendar from our friends at Washington State Community Connectors (WSCC).
Angie Williams, Behavioral Health Advocate for the Southwest Region
Staff Spotlight:
Angie's passion for community service has been
evident from a young age. As a parent to four
biological children and numerous foster children,
she played a pivotal role in her community, believing
deeply in the power of local engagement. She immersed herself and her children in various community activities, from volunteering at food banks and homeless shelters to supporting local schools and organizations.​
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For over 25 years, Angie thrived as a restaurant manager while pursuing higher education and earning multiple degrees. However, driven by her belief in the value of lived experience, she eventually followed her heart's calling to support others more directly. Transitioning careers, Angie discovered her true calling in behavioral health. As a Program Manager at a nonprofit specializing in mental health, she facilitated support groups, led Wellness Recovery Action Plans (WRAP), and served as a Certified Peer Counselor (CPC) and a Recovery Coach.​
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Today, with OBHA, Angie feels she has found her purpose, dedicating herself to helping others in need. For her, life is not just about reaching a destination but embracing the remarkable journey it offers. Angie's story is a testament to the transformative power of following one's passion and making a meaningful impact in the community.
Quote of the quarter:
“What if you moved through the world as if you were easy to be loved? Because I promise you, you are easy to love.” Sonalee Rashatwar, LCSW
Self-advocacy tips & tricks:
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To increase success during mediation, set the tone of a meeting using tempo and body language. Slow down, take a few deep breaths, and be yourself.
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Make a plan. Bring a list of talking points with you to appointments, meetings, and mediations.
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Practice telling your story with a friend, family member, advocate, or partner.
Book recommendation of the quarter:
An Unquiet Mind: A Memoir of Moods and Madness by Kay Redfield Jamison
“This book takes an honest, gut-wrenching look into the realities of living with bipolar disorder, written by a psychologist with the unique perspective of living with the very illness she has studied for years. Dr. Jamison writes with sincerity and candor about her lived experience coping with this serious mood disorder, detailing the ecstatic ups and devastating lows that punctuate her mind’s eye. The author eventually shares how she found the medication and consistent support that have allowed her to lead a full, healthy life. This memoir is a must read for anyone living with or loving someone with bipolar disorder or any other serious mental illness.” – Andy Levitt, OBHA Program Manager
Artist credit:
The Awkward Yeti
Like what you see? Click below to explore more and follow the artist!
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Day in the Life of a Behavioral Health Advocate as written by Angie Williams
A typical day for a BHA begins by opening the office and checking emails, voicemails, and the calendar for updates or new appointments. This includes reviewing any outreach from community members or new events added after hours. The BHA checks in with the Advocacy Coordinator (AC) to confirm if there are any additional meetings, events, or needs that have not already been scheduled.
Throughout the day, the BHA may attend various meetings, including crisis response, Behavioral Health Advisory Council (BHAC) and Behavioral Health Advisory Board (BHAB) meetings, or other community gatherings. The BHA and AC are highly engaged in the community, frequently receiving calls or visits from individuals and organizations seeking support, updates, or collaboration. Other daily tasks may involve case reviews and updating the resource database with new contacts or support options discovered through outreach.
Outreach is a key part of the BHA’s role. This includes connecting with local facilities, individuals, and organizations to offer assistance and build relationships. The BHA also supports community members who reach out with concerns, even if those concerns fall outside the BHA's direct scope, thanks to a “no wrong door” policy. The goal is always to provide helpful information and resources.
Above all, the BHA’s work is grounded in a trauma-informed approach. Whether someone walks in for information, resources, or emotional support, the BHA is a compassionate point of contact. While no two days are exactly the same, the ability to adapt and respond with care is central to the role. The BHA and AC work closely together, driven by deep respect for their community and a shared commitment to providing meaningful support.