Ombuds Services
Providing Resolution to Mental Health Issue Complaints

Ombuds Services exist to serve mental health consumers within the public mental health system. The Ombudsman provides a way for consumers to have their concerns related to their mental health care addressed.

Upon recieving a complaint or grievance, the Ombuds Services will research and investigate the consumer's situation, advocate for the consumers's expressed interest, and facilitate a resolution to the issue.

Ombudsman are trained to resolve complaints at the lowest level possible. This may include resolution at the Community Mental Health Agency (CMHA) level, or at the Regional Support Network (RSN) level.

Some complaints do become formal grievances, if a resolution cannot be achieved. The Ombuds Services will also assist the consumers with the grievance proceedure, including preparation necessary for the State of Washington Fair Hearing process.

So, if you cannot get a resolution by working with the service provider, there is someone to help you achieve a resolution. The Ombuds Services do, in many ways, work the same way as other consumer advocates.

Below is the complete list of Washington State Ombuds Service Offices. We have included the physical/mailing address, phone numbers (including the toll free numbers), email contacts, and even the websites of those that have one...

Chelan-Douglas RSN

Clark County RSN

Eastern State Hospital

Greater Columbia Behavioral Health RSN

King County RSN

Mental Health Division (HRSA)

North Central WA RSN

North Sound Mental Health Administration RSN

Peninsula RSN

Pierce County RSN

Southwest RSN

Spokane County RSN

Thurston-Mason RSN

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