Region 1 Behavioral Health Authority is a political subdivision of Nebraska with statutory responsibility under Neb. Rev. Stat. 71-802 through 71-820 for organizing and supervising comprehensive mental health and substance abuse services across eleven Panhandle counties.
We serve approximately 88,000 people across 15,000 square miles in Western Nebraska. As one of six behavioral health authorities in Nebraska, we operate within the broader Nebraska Behavioral Health System alongside three Regional Centers.
Our organization was originally established to coordinate mental health services, modified in 1977 to include substance abuse services, and revised in 2004 under LB 1083 as part of the Nebraska Behavioral Health Services Act.
Region 1 Behavioral Health Authority is committed to providing high-quality behavioral health services to all residents of the Panhandle. Through strong system leadership, collaboration, and partnerships, we work to promote recovery, resilience, and improved well-being for individuals, families, and communities.
To work alongside our community to build a unified and comprehensive behavioral health system that reflects compassion, respect, empowerment, and inclusivity. Through shared efforts and collaboration, we strive to ensure accessible, effective, and person-centered care for all.
Region 1 Behavioral Health Authority is proudly nationally accredited by CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities). This accreditation reflects our ongoing commitment to excellence, person-centered care, strong governance, and continuous quality improvement to best serve individuals, families, and communities across the region.
Learn About CARFOur authority covers eleven counties across the Nebraska Panhandle, spanning 15,000 square miles.
Region 1 was established as a political subdivision of Nebraska to organize and supervise comprehensive mental health services across the Panhandle counties.
Our statutory authority was expanded to include substance abuse services, broadening our ability to serve the behavioral health needs of the region.
Under LB 1083, Region 1 was restructured as part of the Nebraska Behavioral Health Services Act, strengthening our role in the statewide behavioral health system.
Region 1 continues to serve as one of six behavioral health authorities in Nebraska, coordinating services through a robust network of providers and community partners.
Region 1 Behavioral Health Authority serves as the regional administrative entity responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing a network of publicly funded behavioral health services. We work collaboratively with providers, consumers, families, and community partners to ensure accessible, recovery-oriented, and person-centered care across our service area.
Our Board of County Commissioners includes one elected official from each of the eleven represented counties, providing regional oversight and accountability.
The Regional Administrator serves as chief executive officer, managing day-to-day operations and ensuring the delivery of quality behavioral health services.
The BHAC comprises 11–20 members including consumers, citizens, and community representatives who advise on behavioral health policy and services.
Our team is here to connect you with the right resources and support for your needs.
