Menu
Open Search

OMH Deaf Services imageDeaf Services

The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (BHDD) Office of Mental Health provides a statewide system of care for deaf and hard of hearing adults, children and families, promoting recovery and enhanced mental wellness where deafness presents a significant cultural and/or linguistic barrier.

BHDD Office of Mental Health Deaf Services provides the following services:

  • Community-based mental health services for deaf and hard of hearing individuals who reside in South Carolina.
  • Appropriate inpatient services for those deaf or hard of hearing individuals in need of that level of care, regardless of their age or physical condition.
  • Appropriate housing services and support for individuals who, because of their mental health problems, are unable to sufficiently meet their own housing needs.
  • Specialized mental health services for deaf children and their families, to enable them to grow and develop into effective and productive adults in society.

Accessing Deaf Services

We offer services to people of all ages who are deaf, hard of hearing, late-deafened or deaf-blind. The cultural traditions and beliefs of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities are integrated into our services. Our approach acknowledges the importance of and need for direct communication and provides sensitivity to cultural affiliation and to the psychosocial impact of hearing loss. The counseling staff is fully fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) and Signed English. 

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, our team of clinicians are here to help. Services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Call 803-339-3339 and leave a message and the on-call clinician will call you back. You can also email us at deafhotline@omh.bhdd.sc.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Adults
  • Couples and families
  • Deaf or Hard of Hearing children
  • Hearing children of Deaf/Hard of Hearing parents
  • Hearing parents of Deaf/Hard of Hearing children

Yes, we accept most South Carolina insurance, including Medicaid, Medicare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield and most others. When possible, we will check your insurance first to make sure you are working with a professional who your insurance will allow.

You may also apply for balance-owed reduction.

The Deaf Services team values your privacy and follows federal and state rules about confidentiality.

The Deaf services team will make sure that all language access needs are met. Interpreters are available for all appointments with non-signing staff at BHDD Office of Mental Health.

The Deaf Services team serves patients across the state. Services may be provided in person or virtually. 

If you feel like you need to meet with a clinician, please contact us at 803-339-3339 or deafservices@omh.bhdd.sc.gov. A clinician will contact you to setup up an intake appointment, do an assessment to determine your needs and begin services.

 

An adult and child using sign language image

Deaf Services Resources

HIPAA guidelines, presentations, whitepapers, and videos.

 

Deaf Services for all Ages

Our Deaf Services team is made up of a group of deaf and hard-of-hearing professionals who are fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) and are knowledgeable about the challenges related to deafness and hearing loss. Their goals include:

  • Providing culturally and linguistically competent treatment and support services.
  • Enhancing the quality of a person’s life by facilitating mental health wellness and empowerment.
  • Promoting independence by providing case management and community-based services to those who qualify.
  • Connecting individuals to additional information and resources wherever possible.

 

BHDD Office of Mental Health is a healthcare organization committed to providing quality mental health services to residents of South Carolina. We have a talented team of psychiatrists, mental health counselors, nurses, case managers, administrative and support staff who are passionate about helping people.
1-833-364-2274
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, contact the BHDD Office of Mental Health Mobile Crisis Team, statewide, toll-free, 24/7.