For too many Oregonians, the journey to mental health care begins with roadblocks. Stigma remains a powerful deterrent, discouraging individuals from seeking help out of fear, shame or cultural misconceptions. Systemic barriers—such as long wait times, difficulty navigating the health care system, or a lack of culturally specific providers—often keep people from getting the care they need.

Additionally, mental health challenges don’t exist in isolation; they often accompany other disorders that impact physical health.

Current data shows that Oregon ranks 48 out of 51 in mental health outcomes among the 50 states and District of Columbia; and 30 out of 51 for access to care. Of the 439,000 adults reporting mental health needs, nearly 55% did not receive treatment.

To address these gaps, CareOregon has developed a comprehensive approach, investing in organizations, programs and infrastructure that make an impact. Since 2020, we’ve invested more than $110 million to build a stronger, more responsive behavioral health system. Behavioral health, which encompasses both mental health and substance use disorders, plays a critical role in overall well-being.

“Mental health care is essential, and CareOregon is committed to building a system that works for everyone,” said Cassi Sturtz, Behavioral Health Program Manager at CareOregon. “By addressing stigma, increasing access and investing in innovative programming, we are shaping a future where mental health care is accessible, inclusive and transformative.”

Investing in infrastructure

Access remains one of the biggest barriers to mental health care for many Oregonians. In response, CareOregon has reinvested in organizations that work to expand availability for mental health services, design innovative approaches to care and support workforce development. This also includes offering a variety of access points, from telehealth to culturally specific providers. In recent years, we’ve: 

• Worked to expand and diversify our provider network by funding an Addiction Counseling Diversity Scholarships program for BIPOC community members seeking addiction counseling certificates at Portland Community College.
• Invested $4 million to remodel the Unity Center for Behavioral Health’s Psychiatric Emergency Services unit, which doubled capacity, added nine sobering beds and created trauma-informed spaces for staff and patients. 
• Funded the Morrison Clackamas site lease, ensuring continuity of care for members needing behavioral health support in Clackamas County after the organization’s previous free space was terminated.
• Launched the SHIFT initiative, helping outpatient providers transition to team-based care models. This program equips providers with the tools and resources needed to support underserved populations more effectively and efficiently.

Addressing stigma through provider training and community/peer support

One of the most significant challenges in mental health is the stigma that discourages many individuals from seeking help. Reducing stigma requires public education and changes within the care system itself.

• Programs like CareOregon’s MedsEd train providers to use empathetic, inclusive language that fosters trust and reduces barriers related to stigma. 
• Peer-led initiatives are also essential to breaking down stigma. CareOregon invested $1 million in MHAAO Peer Resource Center in East Portland. The organization provides drop-in services and shelter space operated entirely by peers, creating a safe, stigma-free environment.
• Additionally, the 4D LGBTQ Recovery Community Center—the first of its kind in Oregon—offers affirming spaces where LGBTQ+ individuals can access support tailored to their unique needs.

Partnering with organizations

Mental health challenges often co-occur with substance use, physical health issues, housing instability and other social health factors. CareOregon’s approach to tackling these barriers is through partnering with community-based organizations that address the whole person. 

One example is Rose Haven, a day shelter and community center in Portland that provides services to individuals experiencing homelessness and trauma. For many of Rose Haven’s clients, mental health challenges are compounded by housing instability.

“Eighty percent of our guests are actively experiencing homelessness, and many are navigating severe mental health challenges compounded by trauma,” said Elizabeth Starke, Development Director at Rose Haven. “The trauma of being displaced—on top of past experiences—is devastating. You can’t focus on the future when you’re just trying to survive today.” 

In addition to housing support, Rose Haven also provides mental health services. The mental health program offers emotional support, crisis stabilization and health care navigation for members experiencing trauma. Mental health advocates conduct assessments, create safety plans, and connect guests to long-term care, working to bridge gaps and remove barriers to accessing health care services.

• In Washington County, CareOregon supported CODA’s development of a substance use disorder campus, which includes sobering, withdrawal management, residential care and supportive housing. By funding CODA’s organizational redesign, CareOregon has enabled the provider to double its capacity and streamline its services.
• Another investment, the $700,000 renovation of River Haven transitional housing, integrates substance use disorder services with housing, providing critical support for BIPOC individuals experiencing homelessness.

CareOregon has taken a broad approach to mental health care, focusing investments on organizations, programs and infrastructure to improve access and create systems that support individuals holistically.

“At CareOregon, we understand that mental health is foundational to overall well-being,” Sturtz said. “Every investment we make is rooted in the belief that absolutely everyone deserves to feel safe and supported. When members feel cared for and supported; when stigma is no longer a barrier; and when they can get access to care easily, their overall health improves. When we show up for people’s mental health, we’re showing up for their whole lives.”