Probation

Pathways Program

The Pathways Program is a collaborative court program that was established in 2006 and is a collaborative effort among different departments including the  San Mateo County Superior Court, Probation Department, District Attorney’s Office, Private Defender Program, Sheriff's Office, Correctional Health, and Behavioral Health and Recovery Services (BHRS).

The goal of the Pathways Program is to reduce incarceration for seriously mentally ill individuals who have significant impairments and help them to live more successfully in the community. Applicants who are eligible are admitted after they enter a guilty or no contest plea, but prior to sentencing on their charges.

Program eligibility criteria include:

• Statutorily eligibility for probation
• Resident of San Mateo County
• Diagnosis of a serious mental illness that is not substance induced and significantly impairs their ability to function
• Voluntary agreement to participate in the program, including specific program conditions

Program benefits include:

• Case management services (including assistance linking clients to health care)
• Probation supervision services
• Housing plan and supportive services
• Employment, education and/or community services support
• Dual diagnosis treatment and recovery support
• Psycho-educational/recovery services
• Peer support/mentoring services
• Family support services
• Pro-social activities and events

Frequently Asked Questions:

How can I refer myself or someone to Pathways?

If you would like to make a referral you can complete a Pathways referral form and mail it to:

San Mateo County Probation
ATTN: Pathways
400 County Center, 5th Floor
Redwood City, CA 94063.  

You may also send the form via facsimile to (650) 363-4829 ATTN: Pathways. 
You can also call (650)363-4244 and ask to speak with someone in the Pathways Unit.

If you have questions about a court case, contact the San Mateo County Courts.
If you want to know which Deputy Probation Officer is assigned to your case, call (650) 363-4244.