Barbara Mitchell

Barbara Mitchell is a statewide recognized expert in older adult behavioral health with a distinguished career in public mental health. She dedicated her career to developing, implementing, and evaluating age-specific behavioral health programs that improve the quality of life for adults age 60 and older in Riverside County and throughout California.

A passionate advocate for education, Ms. Mitchell has trained professionals, paraprofessionals, peers, family members, and community organizations to strengthen awareness and understanding of aging and behavioral health. She is a founding member of the California Mental Health Advocates for Older Adults (CAMHAOA), where she held several executive leadership roles and was recognized for her outstanding service.

As Mental Health Services Program Manager for the Riverside County Department of Behavioral Health, Ms. Mitchell led the expansion of older adult behavioral health services, growing the program from approximately $500,000 to more than $8 million by the time of her retirement.

Throughout her career, she has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including the Foundation on Aging of Riverside County, Joslyn Center, California Foundation on Aging, and CAMHAOA, advancing advocacy and services for older adults across California.