Santa Cruz County’s new behavioral health director is Dr. Marni R. Sandoval, who comes from Monterey County where she was deputy director of behavioral health.
She starts May 5.
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The Mental Health Advisory Board was involved in the selection process.
Dr. Sandoval is a licensed psychologist. She has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from UC Davis, and a master’s degree in clinical professional psychology in San Francisco.
County staff said Dr. Sandoval is deeply committed to integrating trauma-informed and culturally relevant approaches to mental health and substance use care, ensuring that children, youth, adults, and families receive equitable access to services.
While at Monterey County she has played a crucial role in implementing Medi-Cal plan responsibilities, CalAIM initiatives including payment reform efforts, and advocating for policies that support the well-being of underserved populations.
She has contributed to the development of the state’s behavioral health ecosystem through her work with Breaking Barriers California and the Child and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative, where she co-authored a state paper aimed at improving resource and service integration across agencies.
Dr. Sandoval also has been dedicated to training and mentoring future mental health professionals. Since 2005, she has served as the training director for the American Psychological Association accredited Doctoral Psychology Internship and Practicum Program at Monterey County Behavioral Health.
Her experience includes leadership in aspects of behavioral health, high-level program management, budget oversight, grant and contract administration.
In private practice, she has provided specialized assessments for educational disabilities, learning differences, and trauma-related issues.
