Ocean county to award $2 million in behavioral health contracts next week

TOMS RIVER, N.J. – Ocean County officials are set to approve more than $2 million in behavioral health service contracts next week, extending key programs that provide mental health and counseling support across the county.

The competitive contract extensions, scheduled for a vote by the Board of County Commissioners, would continue partnerships with several long-standing healthcare providers through 2026.

County leaders say the funding will ensure uninterrupted access to behavioral health programs for residents in need, with all contracts contingent on adoption of next year’s county budget.

Under the proposal, Bright Harbor Healthcare would receive $1,382,007 to continue providing core behavioral health services through the end of 2026.

Preferred Behavioral Health Group would be awarded $286,559 for continued service delivery over the same period.

Renewals expand community-based mental health support

In addition to its primary contract, Bright Harbor Healthcare is slated to receive a $41,987 extension for Behavioral Health Services II, a supplemental countywide program.

The Long Beach Island Community Center, Inc. would be awarded $34,800 for its continuation of Behavioral Health Services II in southern Ocean County.

Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus is expected to receive $325,000 to provide supplemental behavioral health services, extending its collaboration with the county through next year.

Each agreement covers the period from January 1 through December 31, 2026, and will take effect following final budget approval.

County maintains focus on continuity of care

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Officials said the contract renewals are designed to maintain stable access to critical mental health and addiction recovery services, ensuring programs remain active without interruption.

The providers handle a range of needs — including outpatient counseling, crisis response, and case management — that serve thousands of residents each year.

County commissioners are expected to finalize the measures during their regular public meeting next week.

Key Points

Ocean County will vote next week on more than $2 million in behavioral health contracts.
Bright Harbor Healthcare would receive the largest award, totaling about $1.4 million.
The contracts ensure continued access to mental health and counseling programs through 2026.

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