External Advocates

External Advocates are independent advocates who provide assistance and support to individuals receiving services at state operated mental health and juvenile justice facilities.

External Advocates:

• Help individuals and their families with questions, concerns, and complaints regarding hospital care and treatment.
• Help resolve concerns and complaints.
• Work with individuals and others, including local/regional mental health offices and county providers, to facilitate community living.
• Refer individuals to an attorney or agency that provides legal advocacy.
• Assist with questions about benefit programs and concerns regarding employment.
• Provide technical assistance and education regarding rights to individuals, their families, and the hospital staff.
• Ensure the fundamental rights of the individual receiving services in the state-operated facility.

If you have questions about the External Advocate Program, contact MHAPA by phone at 866-578-3659 or email chammann@mhapa.org.

External Adult Advocates:

External Youth Advocates:

External Youth Advocates provide advocacy in the following state-operated facilities:

• Youth Forestry Camps 3
• Loysville Youth Development Center and Secure Treatment Center
• North Central Secure Treatment Unit
• North East Secure Treatment Unit
• South Mountain Secure Treatment Unit

To connect with a youth advocate, contact Elaina Ingalls at eingalls@mhapa.org.