Professional Counseling Services

The San Mateo County Sheriff's Office (“SMCSO”) is seeking proposals from qualified vendors to provide comprehensive, confidential professional counseling services for sworn and professional (non-sworn) personnel. With more than 800 employees serving across patrol, custody, investigative, and administrative divisions, SMCSO personnel routinely encounter high-stress situations, critical incidents, and cumulative trauma associated with law enforcement and correctional work. The County seeks a qualified contractor to deliver responsive, culturally competent mental health services that support employee wellness, resilience, and operational readiness. The Sheriff’s Office requires a counseling program that ensures timely access to confidential services for employees and, when appropriate and approved, their family members. Services must include short-term counseling, crisis and critical incident response, on-site and virtual clinical availability, departmental training on mental health and wellness topics, and participation in outreach efforts. The contractor must maintain strict confidentiality while coordinating administrative authorization processes for additional sessions and family services without compromising clinician–client privilege. The anticipated start date for services is July 1, 2026, subject to successful contract negotiation. Through this partnership, SMCSO seeks to enhance workforce wellness, mitigate the impact of critical incidents, and sustain a healthy, resilient organization committed to serving the community.