Expanding Access to Integrated Behavioral Health Care in West Contra Costa County
Contra Costa County identified a pressing need to expand and modernize behavioral health services for residents in the West County area. Growing demand at the existing health center limited timely access to care and constrained the delivery of specialized services. In response, the County developed the West County Behavioral Health Center, a new two-story, stand-alone clinic designed to increase service capacity, relieve pressure on aging facilities, and provide a respectful, supportive environment for individuals seeking behavioral healthcare.
HED partnered with Overaa Construction in a Design-Build collaboration to deliver the 20,700-square-foot facility in San Pablo, California. This integrated approach aligned design and construction teams early, supporting efficient decision-making and maintaining clarity around cost, schedule, and performance. The collaboration allowed the County to move confidently from concept to completion while delivering a purpose-built facility rooted in community needs.
The new center significantly expands the scope of services offered on campus, with more than fifty patient care and therapy rooms dedicated to integrated mental health and substance abuse treatment. The facility supports crisis counseling, brief therapy, and a wide range of outpatient mental health services delivered in nine different languages. By addressing diverse cultural and linguistic needs, the center plays a vital role in reaching underserved populations and strengthening trust between providers and the community.
Program organization guided the design strategy. The building layout supports clear circulation, intuitive wayfinding, and a calm atmosphere throughout. Clinical and therapy spaces balance privacy with accessibility, allowing staff to work efficiently while creating a welcoming experience for patients. Dedicated specialty spaces support focused care for specific behavioral health needs, giving clinicians the flexibility to tailor treatment approaches within a modern, supportive setting.
Serving approximately 2,300 adults and 400 children each year, the West County Behavioral Health Center extends critical resources to individuals and families who previously faced barriers to care. Achieving LEED Silver certification, the facility reflects a thoughtful approach to sustainability, operational efficiency, and long-term stewardship. Completed in 2020, the center stands as a meaningful civic investment, strengthening the regional healthcare network and reinforcing Contra Costa County’s commitment to accessible, community-centered behavioral health services.
