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Ohio’s Behavioral Health System Enters a New Era
- Jeffrey Lynne
- Oct 31
- 2 min read
COLUMBUS, Ohio — The State of Ohio has announced a major update to its behavioral health system. The Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS) will now be known as the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health (DBH)—a change that represents a forward step in reducing stigma and promoting whole-person care.
The update was established through Am. Sub. House Bill 96, part of Ohio’s operating budget for fiscal years 2026–2027, and signed by Governor Mike DeWine. The change aligns the state with national best practices and reflects the department’s continued effort to meet the evolving needs of Ohioans.
According to the Governor’s office, the transition from “Mental Health and Addiction Services” to “Behavioral Health” is more than a rebrand—it’s a modernization. The term behavioral health reflects an inclusive, comprehensive view of care that addresses mental health, substance use, suicide prevention, and emotional well-being together.
OhioMHAS was originally created in 2013 following the merger of two agencies: the former Department of Mental Health and the Department of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services. At the time, the name represented industry norms. Since then, however, the behavioral health field has shifted toward integrated, person-centered models that focus on long-term wellness and prevention.
By adopting the title Ohio Department of Behavioral Health, the state joins others across the country in recognizing that mental health and substance use are deeply interconnected, and that stigma-reducing language can encourage more people to seek care.
While the department’s name and branding are changing, its mission, leadership, and commitment to excellence remain unchanged. The rebrand also includes a new logo and website: DBH.ohio.gov.
Governor DeWine emphasized that the change underscores the state’s ongoing commitment to improving access to mental health and recovery services, strengthening communities, and creating pathways for every Ohioan to reach their full potential.
Supporting Behavioral Health Providers Nationwide
At Lynne Legal, we’re encouraged by Ohio’s efforts to advance behavioral health care and eliminate barriers to access. Based in Florida, our firm proudly supports behavioral health organizations across the country as they work to expand services, secure zoning approvals, and fight discrimination that can limit their ability to provide care.
Your mission is to deliver compassionate, lifesaving support.
Together, we can help create a future where behavioral health providers thrive and every individual has access to the care they deserve.
Sources:
Office of Governor Mike DeWine, State of Ohio
Ohio Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) DBH.ohio.gov
Am. Sub. House Bill 96 (FY 2026–2027 Ohio Operating Budget)
Lynne Legal is Of Counsel to Cohen Norris Wolmer Ray Telepman Berkowitz & Cohen.
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