Alameda County is transitioning from a Prevention and Early Intervention (PEI) model to an Early Intervention (EI) service model as part of broader changes in the behavioral health system. Under the previous PEI framework, services primarily focused on promoting mental wellness, increasing awareness, reducing stigma, and preventing the development or worsening of mental health concerns through outreach, education, screenings, and short-term supportive services.
With the transition to Early Intervention, the focus expands to providing specialty mental health treatment services for individuals who are experiencing significant emotional, behavioral, or mental health challenges that require clinical intervention. This change allows providers to offer a broader range of services, including comprehensive assessments, diagnosis, individual and family therapy, rehabilitation services, care coordination, and ongoing treatment for eligible Medi-Cal beneficiaries.
The goal of this transition is to ensure that individuals receive timely, culturally responsive, and evidence-based care at the earliest signs of mental health difficulties, helping to improve outcomes and prevent the need for more intensive services later. While prevention and community engagement remain important components of the behavioral health continuum, this new model strengthens access to treatment and support for those with identified mental health needs.
Preventive Counseling Services, which is part of the Afghan Wellness Project, are offered in a client-friendly, confidential and safe environment. by Dr. Masoud Ghafoer, PsyD., AMFT. Some of the prevention counseling services include:
