![Family Advocate header with extended family](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/ae18ee_f67f2374379a4eae81c37dd942bd1cec~mv2.png/v1/crop/x_0,y_0,w_2527,h_600/fill/w_981,h_233,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/Family%20Advocate%20header-01.png)
If a member of your family, significant other or close friend is suffering from mental illness, you can contact the Family Advocate for help. The Family Advocate of Kern Behavioral Health & Recovery Services is the family’s link to assistance and navigation of the Kern County Mental Health System of Care. A variety of services is available to help you navigate the mental health system. The Family Advocate is a trained professional who can help you to support and assist your family member.Â
The Family Advocate CAN:
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Help families search for appropriate services as supporters
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Advocates for families and helps families communicate with service providers
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Offers suggestions and shares ideas regarding approaches to problems that arise
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Assists the family with complaints and concerns regarding mental health services
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Provides education for family members about
o Participation in treatment direction or discussion
o The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in Kern County
The Family Advocate CANNOT:
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Provide therapy services needed by an individual or by family members
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Release confidential information to family members without the client’s consent
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Make decisions for family members
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Force a family member receiving services to do anything against his or her will
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Represent clients or family members in a court of law
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More Information
For more information about Family Advocacy services,
call 844-360-8250