DC Department of Behavioral Health
Dr. Barbara
J. Bazron
A distinguished public health leader whose vision, integrity, and commitment to equity have strengthened behavioral health systems across the District and the region.
Serving the Nation's Capital
01The District's
Guiding Force
As Director of the DC Department of Behavioral Health, Dr. Bazron leads the District's integrated system of mental health and substance use services. Her leadership ensures that residents across all eight wards have access to high-quality, recovery-oriented care grounded in dignity, equity, and accountability.
Advancing Integrated Care
02Breaking Every
Barrier
Dr. Bazron has championed the integration of mental health, substance use, and physical health services. Her work has reduced fragmentation, expanded access, and strengthened the District's capacity to deliver coordinated, person-centered care.
Regional Leadership
03Shaping Policy
Across the Region
Before returning to the District, Dr. Bazron served as Deputy Secretary of Maryland's Behavioral Health Administration, overseeing statewide behavioral health operations, five psychiatric hospitals, and major improvements in forensic services. Her leadership has shaped behavioral health policy across the region.
Champion for Youth
04Building Futures
for Every Child
Dr. Bazron expanded evidence-based practices for children and youth, ensuring that young people receive timely, culturally responsive, community-centered support. Her work has strengthened the District's youth behavioral health continuum.
Expanding Access
05Care Without
Boundaries
Under her leadership, DBH increased access to behavioral health services in non-traditional settings, including the urgent care clinic at DC Superior Court. These innovations ensure that residents receive immediate, compassionate care when and where they need it.
Peer Leadership
06Elevating
Lived Experience
A national advocate for peer-led recovery, Dr. Bazron integrated peer leadership into treatment models and expanded community-based supports. Her work elevates lived experience as a core component of behavioral health care.
Data & Accountability
07Evidence
as a Foundation
Dr. Bazron established DBH's research and evaluation division, ensuring that policy decisions are grounded in accurate, reliable data. Her commitment to evidence-based governance strengthens the District's behavioral health infrastructure.
Cultural Competency & Equity
08A Voice for
Every Culture
A published author and early innovator in cultural competency, Dr. Bazron has shaped national conversations on equity in behavioral health. Her work continues to guide systems toward culturally responsive, inclusive care.
Every person deserves access to compassionate, high-quality behavioral health care.
Dr. Barbara J. Bazron — Director, DC Department of Behavioral Health
Legacy of Service
Legacy of
Service
Dr. Bazron's career reflects a lifelong commitment to public service, equity, and the belief that every person deserves access to compassionate, high-quality behavioral health care. Her leadership continues to guide the District toward a healthier, more just future.