CA Bridge Connect is a first-of-its-kind helpline that helps people move from crisis to care, quickly, compassionately, and without the usual barriers.
CA Bridge is a program of the Bridge Center at the Public Health Institute, funded and supported by the California Department of Healthcare Services (DHCS). We’re a nonprofit organization focused on reducing overdose deaths and supporting people affected by addiction by making treatment easy to access for every Californian who needs it.
Led by CA Bridge, CA Bridge Connect is a hotline that helps people quickly connect to medical providers who prescribe medications for addiction treatment. Our trained CA Bridge Connect Navigators make referrals to providers, explain treatment options, and offer ongoing support. They’ll listen, answer your questions, and help you find effective care that fits your needs.
Certified by CA Bridge, CA Bridge Connect Navigators combine professional training with personal experience to support people who use opioids and other drugs.
“Come as you are, and I will do the same, and together we will get you to your goal.”
Katie has worked in a variety of substance use support roles, such as harm reduction programs and navigation in emergency rooms, with a wide range of communities, including people experiencing homelessness, people living with HIV, pregnant and parenting people, and others. Katie is passionate about connecting people to resources in an effort to build healthier, stronger communities one person at a time.
“I believe that everyone deserves access to compassionate, person-centered support.”
Chaia has a decade of experience as a substance use navigator. Having worked at the local level as a navigator and the state level as a mentor, Chaia has built strong relationships across California communities to ensure individuals seeking care and their loved ones receive the support they need – meeting people where they are and when they are ready.
“I come from a family impacted by substance use, grew up in foster care, and have my own story of recovery. These experiences taught me to lead with compassion and advocate for all people to have access to the care they need and deserve.”
LaToya has worked in the substance use treatment field for more than 12 years in various settings, including the emergency department, outpatient clinic, and the nonprofit sector. With six years of substance use counseling experience, LaToya is working toward licensure as a dual-diagnosis therapist to continue supporting people navigating the behavioral health care landscape. Seeing people treated with compassion, respect, empathy, and without stigma motivates her work.
“I am driven by providing compassionate care, cultivating supportive communities, and demystifying medical care and enhancing accessibility.”
Emma has more than five years of navigation experience working with a range of communities, including people living with HIV, people experiencing homelessness, people living in rural areas, and people who are pregnant. She has also worked as a doula for people who are pregnant or facing major reproductive procedures. Emma is passionate about providing advocacy for those she supports through navigation, and believes in judgment-free, person-centered care.
“I want to ensure that people receive quality care and a safe space while determining their next step on their life journey.”
Phillip has over 15 years of experience in HIV, case management, and overdose prevention services, and has worked in a range of settings, from street medicine to hospitals. He is a certified HIV test counselor with experience in linkage to comprehensive prevention services and medical care and is also pursuing a master’s degree in social work. Phillip is passionate about providing realistic, low-barrier services – free of stigma.
