Georgia Behavioral Health Facility Licensing: Steps and Requirements
Are you looking to open a behavioral health facility in Georgia? Whether you plan to offer Detox, Residential Treatment, Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), or Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), understanding Georgia’s specific licensing requirements is crucial to your success. With the right guidance, you can navigate the process smoothly and ensure your facility is fully compliant. Let Atlantic Health Strategies guide you through every step to get your facility licensed and ready to provide high-quality care in Georgia!
In Georgia, a Certificate of Need (CON) is not required for behavioral health facilities, including those offering mental health or substance use disorder (SUD) services. However, all facilities must comply with the licensing standards set by the appropriate state agencies to legally operate and ensure patient safety and care quality.
Licensing requirements for behavioral health facilities in Georgia vary depending on whether the services provided are for mental health or substance use disorder (SUD). Different state agencies are responsible for the licensing of each service type.
Licensing for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Facilities
Substance use disorder treatment facilities in Georgia, including Detox, Residential Treatment, PHP, and IOP, are licensed by the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH), Healthcare Facility Regulation Division (HFRD).
Detox Facilities: To obtain a license for a detox facility, you must provide a medically supervised environment to manage withdrawal safely, with licensed professionals such as physicians and nurses on-site. Your facility must comply with HFRD standards for safety, staffing, patient care, and facility operations.
Residential Treatment Centers for SUD: Facilities providing residential treatment services for substance use disorders must offer 24/7 care in a structured environment. You must meet HFRD regulations regarding staffing ratios, individualized treatment plans, safety protocols, and program structure.
PHP and IOP for SUD: PHP and IOP facilities providing SUD treatment are also licensed by HFRD. These programs must provide structured, intensive treatment services and meet the state’s requirements for staffing, therapeutic programming, patient care, and emergency preparedness.
Licensing for Mental Health Facilities
Mental health facilities in Georgia, including Residential Treatment Centers, PHP, and IOP, are licensed by the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD).
Residential Treatment Centers for Mental Health: Facilities providing residential treatment services for mental health must be licensed by DBHDD. They must offer 24/7 care in a structured environment and meet state standards for staffing, safety, individualized treatment plans, and therapeutic programming.
PHP and IOP for Mental Health: PHPs and IOPs providing mental health services are also licensed by DBHDD. These programs require detailed program descriptions, including therapeutic services, daily schedules, staffing, and compliance with safety and quality standards.
- Determine the Type of License You Need: Decide whether your facility will provide mental health services or substance use disorder (SUD) services. This decision will determine which agency you need to work with and the specific requirements for your application.
- Attend the Mandatory Orientation: Register and attend the required orientation session conducted by either DBHDD (for mental health services) if you are applying for mental health. This is a necessary step before submitting your license application.
- Review State Regulations: Visit the appropriate agency’s website — DBHDD for mental health services or DCH HFRD forSUD services — to understand the latest licensing regulations and requirements for your facility type.
- Prepare Your Application and Documentation: Gather all necessary documents, including a detailed description of your program, staffing plans, facility floor plans, and proof of compliance with state health and safety standards.
- Submit Your Application to the Appropriate Agency:
- For mental health facilities (Residential, PHP, IOP): Submit your application to DBHDD.
- For substance use disorder facilities (Detox, Residential, PHP, IOP): Submit your application to HFRD.
- Prepare for Inspection: The relevant agency (DBHDD or HFRD) will conduct an on-site inspection to ensure your facility meets state standards for safety, patient care, and operational compliance. Be ready to demonstrate adherence to all regulations.
- Receive Your License and Begin Operations: Once your facility passes the inspection and meets all licensing requirements, you will receive your license and can start offering services to your community.
Before submitting a license application, all prospective mental health providers in Georgia must attend a mandatory orientation conducted by the Georgia Collaborative ASO. The orientation provides critical information about the licensing process, regulatory requirements, and operational standards.
Navigating the licensing process in Georgia involves multiple steps, including a mandatory orientation and coordination with different state agencies. Atlantic Health Strategies is here to help you every step of the way. With our extensive experience in guiding facilities through the licensing process in Georgia, we provide expert support to ensure you meet all state requirements quickly and efficiently.
Contact Us Today!
Ready to begin your licensing journey in Georgia? Contact Atlantic Health Strategies today, and let us help you navigate the complexities of state requirements and get your facility licensed with ease!
