On Dec. 13, the Board of Supervisors appointed Georgina Yoshioka as behavioral health director. Yoshioka served as interim behavioral health director since December 2021, at which time she led department operations and spearheaded various major initiatives.
With 26 years of experience working in the field of social work, Yoshioka specializes in the delivery of behavioral health services to diverse populations including the criminal justice, behavioral health, and child welfare systems. Since joining the Department of Behavioral Health in 2008, Yoshioka has provided leadership over programs within the Adult Forensic Services division and served as the deputy director of 24-hour and Emergency Services.
“Behavioral health is an important aspect of our lives and is just as important as physical health,” Board of Supervisors Chair Dawn Rowe said. “Under Dr. Yoshioka’s leadership, San Bernardino County will benefit from the department’s increased availability of behavioral health services and ongoing efforts to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and substance use disorders.”
Chief Executive Officer Leonard X. Hernandez said, “Dr. Yoshioka has tremendous knowledge and experience in the behavioral health field. Having served in numerous roles she provides a multifaceted approach to service. I am pleased to welcome Dr. Yoshioka as director, and I look forward to continued innovation and adaptability from the Department of Behavioral Health.”
Yoshioka has a Bachelor of Sociology; a Master of Social Work with a focus on children, youth and families; a Master of Business Administration, and a Doctor of Social Work. She is also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of California since 2003.
“I am honored to serve our community in this capacity,” Yoshioka said. “Alongside dedicated and passionate staff, we will continue the growth and reach of behavioral health services so that our residents can achieve optimum wellness.”
As the director, Yoshioka is driven by her dedication and determination to be a key contributor to the mission of providing individuals, families, and communities with access to services that promote prevention, intervention, wellness, recovery, and resiliency. Under her guidance, the department will continue to embrace DBH’s mission, core values and the Countywide Vision to reach and assist the San Bernardino County population.