BHSN is hosting a special partial screening of the documentary “Hiding in Plain Sight.” This Ken Burns production focuses on the lives of American youths struggling with mental health issues. The event will feature a special panel discussion with experts from the community, who work in the youth mental health field. Filmmaker Erik Ewers and one of the subjects of the film will be on hand to partake in the panel discussion led by Mountain Lake PBS host Thom Hallock. The event will be held at the Strand Center for the Arts in Plattsburgh, NY from 5:30 – 7:00 on September 19th. Admission is free and all members of the community are welcome to attend and engage in this important topic. “Hiding in Plain Sight” Trailer:

BHSN is proud to announce that it has received an endorsement from the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence for our work with the LGBTQIA+ community. This endorsement highlights BHSN’s dedication to inclusivity and support for all individuals. The endorsement from the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence came after BHSN was selected as 1 of only 5 programs across New York State to take part in a pilot program to assess how domestic violence organizations practice inclusion. The program sought to assess every aspect of our STOP Domestic and Sexual Violence program’s approach to LGBTQIA+ inclusivity, including policies, procedures, hiring, services and more. This announcement from the NYS OPDV and Governor Hochul is a proud confirmation of the work we are doing in respecting gender affirmation and the LGBTQIA+ community. “We are thrilled to receive this endorsement, which reinforces our commitment to fostering a program where diversity is celebrated and protected,” said Emmanuel Durham, VP of Social Programs at BHSN. “At BHSN, we believe in running an inclusive program where everyone feels valued and respected. This endorsement is a testament to our ongoing efforts to promote equality and support for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.” Moving forward, BHSN remains dedicated to upholding our values of inclusivity. The organization aims to continue supporting those affected by sexual and domestic violence including the LGBTQIA+ community.

June 3rd, 2024 [Plattsburgh, NY] – Behavioral Health Services of Northern (BHSN) is pleased to announce the appointment of Katherine Cook as the new President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). With an extensive background in executive leadership within the behavioral health sector, Cook brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence to her new role. Prior to joining BHSN, Cook served as the Vice President of Behavioral Health (Springfield, MA), where she demonstrated exceptional leadership in the coordination and integration of all programs, contracts, and related services. Her focus on deliverables ensured that the expectations of the people served, funders, partners, constituents, and other community stakeholders were consistently met. Cook’s professional journey includes significant roles in various organizations within the behavioral health landscape. As the Director of Adult Mental Health and Addiction Services at Health Care & Rehabilitation Services in Springfield, VT, she provided oversight, strategic direction, and integration of a wide range of services, including outpatient, residential, and emergency care. Before her tenure at Health Care & Rehabilitation Services, Cook held the position of Chief Operating Officer at Monadnock Family Services in Keene, NH, where she oversaw day-to-day leadership and operations of all agency programs and services. She also served as the Director of Child and Family Services, demonstrating her commitment to improving behavioral health outcomes for individuals of all ages. “We are thrilled to welcome Katherine Cook as our new President and CEO,” said Kara Stark Elliott, Board Chair of BHSN. “Her track record of leadership and dedication to quality in behavioral health services make her an ideal fit for this role. We are confident that under her guidance, BHSN will continue to thrive and make a positive impact in our community.” In her new role as President and CEO of BHSN, Cook will lead the organization in its mission to provide high-quality behavioral health services and support to individuals and families in Northern New York. Her strategic vision and commitment to success will undoubtedly propel BHSN forward as a leader in the field

April 24, 2024 [Plattsburgh, NY] – As Mental Health Awareness Month approaches in May, Behavioral Health Services North (BHSN) is proud to announce that it has been awarded two Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) grants by the New York State Office of Mental Health. These grants, will bolster BHSN’s efforts to strengthen the regional behavioral health workforce and enhance the vitality of communities in the North Country and Capital District regions. BHSN’s Behavioral Health Clinics in these regions provide comprehensive, whole-person care that addresses social, emotional, and physical needs, thus contributing to the overall health and wellness of the communities they serve. The CCBHC grants will enable BHSN to further expand access to behavioral healthcare. “This funding represents a significant milestone in our mission to improve the mental health and well-being of individuals and families across the North Country and Capital District,” said Elizabeth Cole, Vice-President of Clinical Operations, of BHSN. “With these grants, we can continue our commitment to providing high-quality, integrated care that meets the diverse needs of our communities.” A key component of this expansion is the development of the next generation of behavioral health workers. BHSN is dedicated to fostering a supportive environment where employees can work collaboratively within multi-disciplinary teams and advance professionally through exceptional leadership guidance and mentorship programs. The grants will facilitate a rapid expansion of behavioral health services, including increased access to mental health and addiction care for community members. To accommodate this growth, BHSN will be hiring over 100 employees across the region. Positions will include board-certified behavioral analysts, nutritionists, health coaches, psychiatrists, clinicians, peer specialists, psychosocial rehabilitation specialists, care coordinators, customer experience specialists, and administrative support professionals. “We are excited to welcome new members to our team as we work together to address the behavioral health needs of our communities,” said Anne-Marie Morand, Director of People Operations Department, at BHSN. “These positions represent a unique opportunity for individuals to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others while advancing their careers in the field of behavioral health.” BHSN looks forward to continuing its efforts to expand access to quality behavioral health services and improve the overall health and well-being of individuals and families throughout the North Country and Capital District regions.