Mission, Vision, and Values

Mission & History

The mission of the Nebraska Association of Behavioral Health Organizations is to build strong alliances to ensure quality behavioral health services, including substance use and mental health services, are accessible to everyone in our state.

The original organization was formed in 1983 under the name of the Association of Community Mental Health Providers. Membership included the six Behavioral Health Regions and a small number of mental health providers who received public funding. During the early days of the organization their focus was on communication, problem solving and coordination between behavioral health region program administrators and service providers..

In the early 1990's the organization expanded their focus and membership to include those who provide substance abuse treatment and services and non-publicly funded programs such as hospitals and private clinics.

The organization changed its name in 1994 to the Nebraska Association of Behavioral Health Organizations (NABHO). The association's focus continues to support the importance of a strong and financially sound behavioral health care system. Caring for Nebraskans in need of mental health and substance use disorder care and treatment will always be the driving force behind the work of NABHO's members.

Achievements include:

  • Mental health funding line items for chidlren's services in the state budget
  • Established EPCs (Emergency Protective Custody)
  • Mental Health Commitment law
  • Mental Health Parity legislation
  • On-going work to support the need for provider rate increases and defending against any targeted cuts
  • SCHIP legislation and increased coverage for more than 54,000 children
  • Implementation of Medical Neccessity legislation
  • Reorganization of Behavioral Health delivery in the State of Nebraska
  • Collaboration with managed care contactors, DHHS and the Legislature
  • Support for the ballot initiative for Medicaid Expansion