DSHS is Reimaging Client Services

Effective May 1, 2025, the Department of Social and Health Services is proud to unveil a significant organizational transformation under our time-limited strategic initiative, Reimagine DSHS. Our ultimate goal is to streamline access to the support, care, and resources provided to clients and families throughout Washington state. 

As part of this effort, we have consolidated key functions previously managed by the Behavioral Health, Developmental Disabilities and Aging and Long-Term Support Administrations into two core entities: 

• Behavioral Health and Habilitation Administration: Led by Kevin Bovenkamp, this division will oversee state-operated settings and manage comprehensive behavioral health and habilitation services—including 24/7 facilities and residential habilitation centers. 
• Home and Community Living Administration: Headed by Bea Rector, this division focuses on coordinating home and community-based services to better support clients in their own environments. This new entity merges key functions from the community side of the Developmental Disabilities Administration and the Aging and Long-Term Support Administration (including Home and Community Services, Adult Protective and Residential Care Services). Tonik Joseph will report to HCLA as special assistant, focusing on maintaining continuity across developmental disability programs, services, and initiatives. 

The launch of Reimagine DSHS marks the beginning of a phased process designed to refine, enhance, and expand our service capabilities. Over the next 12 months, we will: 

• Refine our processes based on continuous stakeholder and client engagement. 
• Identify ways to improve access to services. 
• Share regular updates and listen to your input through a variety of engagement channels. 

While our internal structure and designations have evolved, your dedicated points of contact remain unchanged. Our collaboration with clients, families, and community partners continues to be our highest priority. We appreciate your continued trust and support as we work to better serve the communities we care about. 

To learn more about the Reimagine DSHS initiative, read our Frequently Asked Questions or check out our updated organizational chart. 

Thank you for joining us as we build a brighter, more efficient future for Washington. 

The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) is the state’s largest human services agency, providing essential support to individuals and families across Washington. Through programs like behavioral health, developmental disabilities, and aging services, DSHS works to promote independence, safety, and well-being in every community.