WCMH: About the Wisconsin Council on Mental Health

Organization chart of the Wisconsin Council on Mental Health (PDF)

• Background
• Vision and Mission
• Duties

Wisconsin Council on Mental Health Strategic Planning Priorities (PDF)

Wisconsin Council on Mental Health Committee Charters (PDF)

Background

The Wisconsin Council on Mental Health (WCMH) is legislatively mandated under Wis. Stat. § 15.197(1) as the mental health planning body for the state. It was created to advise the governor, the legislature, and the Department of Health Services (DHS) on the allocation of Community Mental Health Services Block Grant funds. The body has 20 to 25 members appointed by the governor, meeting bi-monthly. At least 50 percent of the members are consumers and/or family members. Other members represent state agencies, mental health providers, and organizations or groups connected to mental health services in Wisconsin. Members evaluate and review the mental health system's progress towards achieving improved client outcomes and the adequacy of mental health services in the state. The body's duties are specified in Wis. Stat. § 51.02. The body oversees state compliance with federal Public Law 102-321.

Vision and mission

The vision and mission statements are adapted from the final report of the Blue Ribbon Commission on Mental Health.

Vision

We envision the time when all persons in need of mental health services across Wisconsin have equal access to resources that strengthen self-determination and self-sufficiency by promoting health and wellness, improvement and recovery, quality of life, and dignity.

Mission

• Create partnerships that develop, coordinate, and provide a full range of mental health resources.
• Emphasize hope and optimism in all interactions.
• Implement a comprehensive strategy to eradicate stigma and discrimination.
• Involve consumers, their families, and communities as equal stakeholders in service system governance, planning, and delivery.
• Acknowledge the abundance and limitation of human and financial resources and commit to responsible stewardship of these resources.

Duties of the council

• Advise DHS, the legislature, and the governor on the use of state and federal resources and on the provision and administration of mental health programs.
• Provide recommendations to the DHS on the expenditure of federal funds received under the Community Mental Health Services Block Grant.
• Participate in developing, monitoring, and evaluating the implementation of the Community Mental Health Services Block Grant Plan for adults and children.
• Review all DHS plans for services affecting persons with mental illness and monitor the implementation of the plans.
• Serve as an advocate for persons of all ages with mental illness.

Statutes and bylaws

• Wis. Stat. § 51.02 (PDF)
• Bylaws of the council (PDF)

Opportunities to serve on the Wisconsin Council on Mental Health

Have a question or concern to share with the Wisconsin Council on Mental Health? Email dhswicouncilonmentalhealth@dhs.wisconsin.gov.