Who Regulates Residential Treatment Centers in California?
Understanding CDSS, DHCS, and The Joint Commission (JCAHO)
When choosing a residential treatment center, like Highlands in Bloom (HiB), it’s important to know who’s behind the oversight of care. Your peace of mind-and your safety-should rest on more than just a beautiful setting. It should be backed by rigorous licensing, clinical certification, and third-party accreditation for California residential treatment center licensing.
In California, three key organizations work together to ensure that licensed residential facilities meet the highest standards of care:
1. California Department of Social Services (CDSS)
CDSS is responsible for licensing community care facilities including Residential Treatment Centers (RTCs), Short-Term Residential Therapeutic Programs (STRTPs), and group homes for adults and youth. Through its Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD), CDSS enforces regulations outlined in Title 22 to ensure that facilities are safe, properly staffed, and operationally sound.
Why It Matters:
A CDSS license confirms that the facility has been inspected, approved, and is operating in compliance with California regulations.
Highlands in Bloom proudly holds CDSS License #195850591.
Verify our license
2. California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS)
DHCS is the agency that certifies the clinical quality of residential mental health and substance use programs. This includes approval for programs to offer services under Medi-Cal and alignment with standards like ASAM level-of-care designations. DHCS often works alongside county mental health plans to evaluate the medical necessity and scope of services provided.
Why It Matters:
DHCS certification ensures that a facility’s treatment program meets clinical standards and is eligible for Medi-Cal reimbursement, improving access for California residents.
Learn more about DHCS certification
3. The Joint Commission (formerly JCAHO)
The Joint Commission is an independent, nonprofit organization that accredits healthcare facilities—including hospitals, behavioral health programs, and residential centers—across the country. Accreditation is awarded after an in-depth on-site survey that evaluates client safety, care quality, documentation, and staff training.
Why It Matters:
Facilities accredited by The Joint Commission demonstrate a deep commitment to best practices, continuous improvement, and patient safety. Accreditation is also required by many private insurance companies and offers a seal of clinical credibility.
Learn about the Gold Seal of Approval®
How These Organizations Work Together – California Residential Treatment Center Licensing
Each agency plays a unique and critical role in holding facilities accountable:
| Agency | Role | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| CDSS | Licenses the facility itself | Verifies basic operations, staffing, and safety |
| DHCS | Certifies clinical programs | Ensures therapeutic integrity and insurance eligibility |
| Joint Commission | Accredits overall quality | Third-party validation of excellence in care |
At Highlands in Bloom, we are proud to be:
Licensed by CDSS
Certified by DHCS
Accredited by The Joint Commission
Why This Matters to You
When you choose a treatment center, these designations help ensure:
- Safety you can trust – Regulatory oversight means trained staff, emergency readiness, and reliable procedures.
- Clinical credibility – Your care meets evidence-based mental health standards.
- Insurance acceptance – Certification opens doors to most commercial insurance and Medi-Cal coverage.
- Holistic confidence – Our license and accreditation allow us to blend complementary wellness modalities with robust clinical care—safely and ethically.
Final Takeaway – California Residential Treatment Center Licensing
CDSS, DHCS, and The Joint Commission act as a three-part safety net to ensure you receive the best care possible:
- CDSS licenses the foundation.
- DHCS certifies the therapeutic model.
- The Joint Commission validates long-term quality and safety.
Together, they ensure that at Highlands in Bloom, healing happens within a framework of trust, clinical rigor, and holistic excellence.
Let’s Connect
Want to know more about what these credentials mean for you or your loved one?
Book a free consultation and discover how our licensed, certified, and accredited care supports lasting transformation.
Highlands in Bloom
Residential Treatment Center for Autoimmune + Mental Health
Agoura Hills, California
(805) 892-6313
Licensed by CDSS • Certified by DHCS • JCAHO Accredited
