From Therapy to Policy:

In a compelling interview with advocate Randall Hagar, Dr. Sharmil Shah, shares her remarkable journey from clinical psychologist to policy leader at California's Department of Health Care Access and Information. With warmth and passion, she reveals how her dedication to mental health has evolved from one-on-one therapy to developing statewide workforce solutions.

Dr. Shah's path began with a simple passion for helping others, particularly children. Initially headed toward medical school, everything changed when she took Psychology 101. "I was hooked," she recalls, discovering her calling in understanding human behavior and supporting those with mental health challenges.

After 12-13 years providing therapy to children and families, including both victims and perpetrators, Shah reached a turning point after having her first daughter. She realized she wanted to create larger systemic change beyond what she could accomplish as an individual clinician.

"I wanted to try and make a larger change," Shah explains. "I didn't feel I could do that as an individual clinician." This led her to administrative roles where she could influence policy and workforce development across California.

Dr. Shah's path began with a simple passion for helping others, particularly children. Initially headed toward medical school, everything changed when she took Psychology 101. "I was hooked," she recalls, discovering her calling in understanding human behavior and supporting those with mental health challenges.

Today, Dr. Shah focuses on addressing California's critical behavioral health workforce shortage. Her department has conducted extensive research to identify gaps and develop targeted solutions, including grant and scholarship programs for various behavioral health professions.

What drives her work is a commitment to prevention rather than reaction. "Our system has been very reactive versus preventative," she notes, highlighting initiatives like the wellness coach program that places trusted adults in schools to support youth before mental health issues become severe. Despite funding challenges, Shah and her team remain resourceful, reallocating resources and engaging communities to determine the most effective use of limited funds. She emphasizes that community engagement has been crucial: "Our communities have most of the answers that we're looking for."

Dr. Shah's journey from therapist to policy leader demonstrates how individual passion can transform into systemic change, creating ripple effects that improve mental health support for countless Californians.