DHCS Certification Consultant

DHCS Outpatient & Residential Program Certification

Navigating California’s Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) certification process can be complex — especially for outpatient treatment providers and residential facilities looking to expand their service capacity or billing capabilities. At Innovate Consulting, we serve as your dedicated DHCS Certification Consultant, guiding you through eligibility, documentation, clinical policy development, and compliance with Title 9 standards.

With over a decade of hands-on experience and a proven track record supporting new and established programs across California, we bring clarity, structure, and confidence to your certification journey — from application to approval and beyond.

What Is DHCS Certification?

DHCS Certification is the official recognition granted by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) that a program meets the required standards to provide substance use disorder (SUD) treatment services in compliance with Title 9 of the California Code of Regulations.

Certification is:

  • Mandatory for all outpatient SUD treatment programs (e.g., IOP, PHP, OP, MAT)

  • Optional but highly recommended for residential facilities already licensed by DHCS

Close-up of a desk with a clipboard displaying a 'Policies & Procedures' document and a chart. A person is writing on it with a pen. Nearby, blue binders labeled 'Compliance' and an open laptop are visible.

Who Needs Certification?

You are required to obtain DHCS certification if:

  • You provide outpatient substance use disorder services

  • You plan to bill Medi-Cal or contract with counties

You may optionally pursue certification if:

  • You operate a DHCS-licensed residential facility

  • You want to enhance your compliance profile, pursue accreditation, or expand funding sources

Illustration of healthcare professionals discussing outside a behavioral health facility and outpatient clinic, holding clipboards, with buildings and trees in the background.

Our DHCS Certification Services

At Innovate Consulting Services, we guide outpatient and residential programs through the entire certification process, including:

Determining certification eligibility and requirements

We assess your selected site to ensure it aligns with DHCS layout standards for your program type, including bedroom configurations, exits, medication storage, and client flow.

DHCS Application Completion

We complete your DHCS Licensing, Certification, and Ancillary Services applications accurately and efficiently, minimizing the risk of delays, rejections, or deficiencies.

Clinical policy and procedure development (ASAM-based and Title 9-aligned)

We draft and customize your program’s full P&P manual to adhere to current DHCS regulations, including client rights, detox/IMS protocols, emergency procedures, and clinical services.

HR File Compliance

We build your personnel file system with compliant job descriptions, onboarding checklists, training logs, background checks, and license/credential verification tools.

Charting tools and clinical documentation support (progress notes, intake, treatment plans)

We supply editable templates and training for compliant treatment plans, progress notes, assessments, and discharge summaries that meet DHCS charting standards

Facility Walkthroughs

We conduct detailed on-site assessments to ensure your physical plant, signage, safety protocols, and documentation binders are survey-ready before DHCS arrives.

Corrective action responses for pending applications or denied certifications

If DHCS issues a Notice of Deficiency, we draft professional responses, update policies, and submit documentation that addresses each citation and supports approval.

Real-time Survey Support

We provide virtual or onsite support during your DHCS survey to address findings in real time, clarify documentation, and help you navigate the walkthrough process with confidence.

Support for certification renewals and program modifications

We assist with DHCS certification renewals and program modifications to keep your facility aligned with regulatory updates and operational changes.

A professional business meeting with four people around a conference table, discussing documents titled HIP COMPLIANCE, EMPLOYER POLICIES, and MEDICATION LOA. A map and books are visible in the background.

Why Get Certified If You're Already Licensed?

For residential programs, DHCS certification:

  • Improves clinical quality and regulatory credibility

  • Helps prepare for Joint Commission accreditation

  • Enables Medi-Cal billing if combined with a county contract or DMC waiver

  • Increases access to grants, contracts, and payer networks

Let’s Certify Your Program with Confidence

Professional woman in glasses conducting an interview at a desk with a clipboard and laptop, smiling.

Whether you're launching a new outpatient facility or adding certification to your licensed residential program, Innovate Consulting Services is here to guide you through every step of the DHCS certification process.

We take the guesswork out of certification by:

  • Interpreting and applying Title 9 and DHCS standards to your specific program

  • Preparing and reviewing your full application for accuracy and completeness

  • Developing compliant clinical policies, forms, and procedures tailored to your services

  • Assisting with program modifications, renewals, and deficiency responses

With over a decade of real-world experience and a strong reputation for results, we help you build a solid compliance foundation that supports long-term operational success.

📞 Schedule your free consultation today and let’s bring your program into alignment — quickly, confidently, and correctly.

Schedule a Consultation

Ready to take the next step in launching or licensing your program? Connect with a trusted DHCS Certification Consultant who knows the system — and how to move through it with confidence.

DHCS Certification Resources

What does the DHCS Licensing and Certification Division oversee?

Learn about the role of DHCS in licensing, certification, and oversight of substance use disorder treatment facilities.

How do I apply for DHCS certification for my outpatient or residential program?

Get step-by-step guidance on the DHCS certification application process, including required forms, timelines, and supporting documentation.

What levels of care are recognized under DHCS certification standards?


Explore how DHCS defines treatment levels like outpatient, intensive outpatient, and residential detox — and determine where your program fits.

Is Incidental Medical Services (IMS) approval required for my certified facility?


Learn what qualifies as IMS, which programs need it, and how to apply for this optional clinical enhancement for your certified program.