Plattsburgh, NY — Community members joined arms and laced up their running shoes as they took a stand against intimate partner violence at the 4th Annual Run for Ari on Saturday, May 9th, 2026. This annual 5k run and walk honors the memory of Ariana Lavinia Hagen, a local woman from Chazy, NY whose life was tragically taken by intimate partner violence. The 5k serves as both a memorial for those whose lives were taken as well as a powerful call to action to raise awareness about domestic violence prevention. This year marked a significant milestone for the event. In a proud, first-time collaboration between Behavioral Health Services North and SUNY Plattsburgh's Title IX office, the run moved to the university’s campus. The energy on the quad was palpable as students, families, and local residents gathered to transform a space of learning into a space of advocacy. While the day was filled with community warmth, the "why" behind our footsteps remains critical. Statistics show that 10 million people experience domestic violence annually. One in three children and adolescents will experience domestic violence in their lifetime; similarly, one in three women and one in seven men will experience domestic violence as well. It is important to keep in mind that these are instances that have been formally reported; the reality is much higher as many cases go under-reported. Community awareness is our strongest tool for change. In a special tribute to Ari’s deep love for animals, Focus on Ferals joined on-site to host a cat adoption event during the run, complete with a comprehensive list of adoptable kittens and a special appearance by one friendly, but shy black cat. The 2026 Run for Ari saw over 80 participants in the 5k, with one performing two songs in dedication to Ari’s legacy. Many organizations tabled in solidarity with helpful resources and 15 local businesses donated prizes to the raffle benefiting the STOP Domestic and Sexual Violence (STOP DSV) program at BHSN. By the end of the day, $866 in non-raffle donations were raised. Every dollar and every awareness effort directly support the mission of STOP Domestic and Sexual Violence. These funds allow us to continue providing critical resources, education, and a path of healing for survivors across our tri-county region. Whether a seasoned runner or a thoughtful walker, everyone’s presence mattered this day. Families, friends, students, pets, and individuals of all ages came together in community and participated in this day of unity, remembrance, and advocacy. Together, we continue to run toward a future free of violence and filled with hope.

In a recent featured interview with Mountain Lake PBS, BHSN CEO Katherine Cook shared the deeply personal journey that led her to lead one of the North Country’s most vital behavioral health organizations. From her rural roots to her extensive experience across New England, Katherine’s story is a testament to the power of community and the belief that no one should have to navigate their wellness journey alone. A Legacy of Connection Katherine’s commitment to service began long before her executive career. Growing up in rural Ohio, she watched her parents “minister to souls” through simple acts of community, bringing meals to neighbors, and volunteering at the local fire department. This foundation of connection became the north star of her career. Her professional path was forged during the height of the HIV/AIDS crisis in the late 1980s. Volunteering at an AIDS service organization, she learned the profound impact of simply “sitting alongside” those who were ostracized and listening to their stories. This experience solidified her mission: to ensure that silence never equals death and that every individual has a place where they belong. Leading an Expanding Regional Force Since joining BHSN, Katherine has overseen a period of significant community support and regional expansion. A Massive Team: BHSN boasts a team of over 600 dedicated professionals. Regional Reach: While rooted in Plattsburgh, BHSN’s footprint now covers Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Warren, and Washington countries, with school-based clinics extending into Saratoga County. Diverse Support: With over 25 programs, BHSN provides a full continuum of care, including mobile crisis intervention, domestic violence support (STOP), and Therapeutic Foster Care. The Vision: Collaboration Over Competition Katherine’s philosophy is built on the lessons of her mentor, Ken J., who taught her that a mental health agency must be part of the “fabric of the community.” She envisions a North Country where service organizations work collectively rather than competitively to meet the region’s needs. As BHSN continues to expand, Katherine’s message remains simple but transformative: “Connection is care.” At the heart of healing is the act of slowing down, listening, and truly seeing one another. Watch the full interview here:

Community is more than just a zip code or a shared office space. It’s a promise we make to one another to show up when things get difficult. Recently, that promise was felt in every footstep as BHSN joined neighbors, students, and advocates for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Out of the Darkness Campus Walks at both SUNY Plattsburgh and SUNY Adirondack. We are incredibly humbled and proud to share that, through the collective efforts of our team and supporters, BHSN raised over $4,000 to support AFSP’s mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide. A Presence of Purpose At both campuses, the atmosphere was one of profound solidarity. Suicide and mental health struggles often thrive in silence, but these walks are designed to break that quiet. Seeing the sea of participants, each wearing beads that represented their personal connection to the cause, was a powerful reminder that while our journeys are individual, we are never truly walking alone. Beyond the fundraising, BHSN was honored to have a physical presence at these events. Our teams set up resource tables to talk directly with students and community members. We did not just want to be present; we wanted to be there for our community. We shared information on our local programs, explained how BHSN plays a part in the community’s safety net, and offered a listening ear to those who just needed to talk. Whether it was discussing crisis intervention or simply handing out a brochure that might help a friend in need, those face-to-face moments are where the real work of healing begins. Celebrating Our Champions at SUNY Adirondack While every dollar raised and every mile walked contributes to the larger goal, we have to take a moment to celebrate some extraordinary leadership within our own ranks. At the SUNY Adirondack walk, the top three individuals who raised the most money for the cause were all members of the BHSN family. To those three individuals: your dedication is inspiring. You did not just sign up; you reached out, shared your “why,” and mobilized your networks to make a tangible difference. Your efforts reflect the core of what we do at BHSN: going above and beyond to ensure that resources are available for those who need them most. Why We Walk The funds raised go toward vital research, educational programs, and advocacy work. But more than that, these walks serve as a public declaration that mental health is a priority. For the student at SUNY Plattsburgh who might be feeling overwhelmed, or the family member at SUNY Adirondack who is grieving a loss, seeing a massive group of people dedicated to suicide prevention provides a sense of hope that is hard to quantify. At BHSN, we see the impact of these struggles every day. We also see the beauty of recovery and the strength of the human spirit. Participating in these walks allows us to take our clinical mission out into the fresh air and the sunshine, connecting with the community in a way that is warm, conversational, and deeply human. Looking Ahead Raising $4,000 is a milestone, but the mission does not end when the walk's route is finished. We carry this momentum back into our offices, our clinics, and our homes. We remain committed to being a partner in the community’s mental wellness, providing the support and resources necessary to help our neighbors navigate their darkest days. To everyone who donated, walked, cheered from the sidelines, or stopped by our tables to say hello: THANK YOU. You are the reason we can continue this work. You are the reason hope has a home in our community. Let’s keep talking, keep listening, and keep walking toward hope together.

Plattsburgh, NY — “You better wear your fun shoes,” said one friendly PROS participant to a BHSN newcomer. The enthusiasm was indeed palpable for the PROS Kick-Off event. Behavioral Health Services North (BHSN) held its annual PROS Kick-Off on Monday, April 13. Complete with games, entertainment, food, and speakers, the event welcomed participants and community members to explore BHSN's offerings in an interactive, inclusive, and high-energy environment. Personal Recovery Oriented Services (PROS) is a comprehensive BHSN program dedicated to supporting adults managing mental health and substance use challenges. Through tailored therapeutic and rehabilitation treatments, PROS empowers individuals to reach their personal goals. This event was a (re)introduction to the program’s offerings and gave attendees the opportunity to connect with staff members who make it all possible. From multiple rounds of Bingo with prizes to a live performance by the PROS band, there was never a dull moment in the Center for Wellbeing’s PROS gymnasium in Morrisonville, New York. The day began with inspiring speeches from program leaders and participants, many of whom expressed gratitude to the program’s impact. It was evident in these speeches that, more than just the program offerings, it is the people who work closely together every day that makes PROS so impactful. The connection, respect, and camaraderie between staff, participants, and supportive community members was tangible. Afterwards, attendees dispersed and mingled with one another as they prepared for multiple exhilarating rounds of bingo, where prizes consisted of candy, novelty items, and stunning art pieces. Just like the personalized approach to PROS, players held their fate in their hands as they each filled out their own bingo boards, hoping for a win. Breaking for a hot lunch prepared in the PROS kitchen, the Amazing Ricardo prepared himself to put on an awe-inspiring magic show. As audience members found their seats, the energy shifted to that of pure amazement and heightened excitement. Starting off simple and getting increasingly more complex with time, each trick had even those sitting in the front row amazed and pleasantly perplexed. The audience welcomed the PROS band – a collective of PROS members and staff who work together diligently to learn and perform songs voted on by the group. The group came prepared with a repertoire of three songs: Fast Car by Tracy Chapmen, Landslide by Fleetwood Mac, and Roar by Katy Perry. Sung with passion, audience members were moved to tears, some even singing along. The group ensemble was followed by a solo performance of an original song, written by a PROs participant. Throughout the day, attendees participated in Chair Yoga, a restorative session led by Maegan Perkins, as well as interactive bonding activities designed to build trust and teamwork with Adventure Based Counseling (ABC). The event was a powerful reminder that recovery is more than just treatment; it's about community, creativity, and -- of course -- wearing the right shoes.

Plattsburgh, NY - In a powerful display of community and creativity, Behavioral Health Services North (BHSN) and the Strand Center for the Arts (SCA) welcomed over 130 visitors to the opening reception of "Holding Space" on Friday, April 10th. This collaborative exhibition services as a profound exploration of how creative expression informs the mental health journey.      The gallery featured a diverse collection of 129 works from the public alongside powerful pieces created by program participants in BHSN’s Personalized Recovery Oriented Services (PROS) program and BHSN staff. This exhibition serves as a dedicated environment to “hold space” for the individual psyche and the various ways art informs the mental health journey.      “Art is more than creativity; it’s a language of emotion. For those who create, it's a way to process and express what words often can't capture. For those who engage with it, it's a reminder that we are not alone in how we feel,” said Katherine Cook, CEO at BHSN.    “Art connects us — and in that connection, we find community, empathy, and healing. During Mental Health Awareness Month, we celebrate the artists, the art, and the shared human experience that brings us together."      With this exhibition open to public submissions, SCA staff reconnected with many returning artists and also had the opportunity to meet new ones.    “Exhibitions that have a theme give the general public a greater opportunity to display their work,” said Elsa Koop-Angelicola, the Gallery Manager & Associate Curator at The Strand Center for the Arts.     “Having this exhibition up all through Mental Health Awareness Month in May worked out so well and it gives even more meaning to this show.”     Representatives from BHSN and the Strand Center for the Arts, as well as select participating artists, attended the opening reception with great enthusiasm – eager to show their artwork to the community.     The opening night saw an enthusiastic turnout from artists and community members alike, underscoring the vital importance of mental health visibility. By "holding space" for these stories, BHSN and the Strand Center have highlighted the therapeutic impact of the arts and the strength found in regional collaboration.

For the fourth consecutive year, Behavioral Health Services North (BHSN) is proud to join the community at the Saratoga Springs City Center for the annual Autism Expo and Resource Fair. This event remains a cornerstone for families and individuals in the Capital Region, providing a vital space to discover support, share experiences, and build lasting connections. The Saratoga Springs City Center was transformed into a hub of resources, featuring organizations from across the Capital Region and surrounding counties. For BHSN, participating in this expo for four years running is more than just tradition, but a reflection of our commitment to ensuring neurodivergent individuals and their families have a clear, accessible path to integrated care. Our team had the privilege of meeting hundreds of attendees, ranging from parents seeking early intervention resources to adults looking for community-based support systems. The diversity of organizations present, specializing in everything from educational advocacy to therapeutic recreation, highlights the strength of our regional network. At BHSN, we believe that connection is care, and events like the Autism Expo allow us to weave those threads of support together for the families we serve. As a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC), BHSN remains dedicated to evolving our services to meet the unique needs of our community. Whether it’s through our Centers for Wellbeing or our specialized support services, our goal is to ensure that no one in the North Country or Capital Region has to navigate their journey alone. Thank you to Saratoga Bridges for organizing yet another successful event and all the families who stopped by our table to share their stories and learn more about how we can provide the support they need.

Behavioral Health Services North’s STOP Domestic & Sexual Violence (STOP DSV) program recently conducted a landmark training session for local Magistrates, marking a significant step in the program’s ongoing efforts to engage the judicial system and law enforcement. The one-hour session, which qualified for Continuing Judicial Education (CJE) credit, was designed to deepen the judiciary’s non-bias understanding of intimate partner violence and the complexities of Intimate Partner violence. In a significant expansion of traditional clinical training, the session featured Director and Survivor of Intimate Partner Violence Tiana Barten, MBA, and a special guest speaker with lived experience. This survivor-led component of the training provided Magistrates with firsthand experience on how judicial decisions and courtroom environments directly impact those seeking safety and justice. "This training was a tremendous milestone for survivors in our community," said Tiana Barten, STOP Domestic and Sexual Violence Program Director. "Centering the survivor's voice in a room full of judicial leaders ensured that the potential of lethality and complexities of the human element of these cases remained at the forefront of every decision made on the bench." This session is part of a broader, systematic initiative by STOP DSV to foster a more trauma-informed and responsive legal environment. By engaging directly with Magistrates, law enforcement, and local officials, the program is fostering a collaborative environment where meaningful resources and trauma-informed perspectives are integrated into the pursuit of justice. With statistics showing that one in three children and adolescents, one in three women, and one in seven men will experience domestic violence in their lifetime, these system shifts are essential. STOP DSV is moving beyond traditional advocacy to create a unified front that not only supports survivors after violence occurs but works diligently across all levels of the community to prevent it.

Behavioral Health Services North (BHSN) was honored to host Assemblyman Michael Cashman at our Center for Well-Being in Morrisonville. Beyond a simple tour, the visit served as a critical dialogue between frontline providers and state leadership regarding the shifting landscape of mental health and addiction services in Northern New York. Assemblyman Cashman spent time walking our halls, but more importantly, he spent time listening. He sat with our clinicians, engaged with program staff, and heard directly from the individuals we serve – the members of our community who turn to BHSN during their most vulnerable moments. Our leadership team shared a sobering reality: the demand for mental health and addiction treatment in Northern New York is reaching unprecedented levels. To put it in perspective, BHSN now serves over 14,000 individuals annually. That is 14,000 neighbors, friends, and family members receiving life-changing support across our rural landscape. The conversation was candid. Our staff highlighted the daily mission of improving access to care while navigating the unique geographical hurdles of a rural community. From addressing the opioid crisis to providing a lifeline for those battling depression, the work being done at BHSN is a critical pillar of our region’s safety net. Meetings like this are vital. When our representatives in Albany see the reality and hear the stories of resilience from survivors, they are better equipped to champion the policies and funding that keep mental health care at the forefront of the conversation. We thank Assemblyman Cashman for his time, his empathy, and his continued partnership in ensuring that the North Country is never left behind in the conversation on mental health and wellness.

Recovery is more than just overcoming a challenge. It’s building a life you love. We are thrilled to share that Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a major investment in the future of New Yorkers in recovery, and Behavioral Health Services North (BHSN) has been selected as a key partner in this life-changing initiative. With nearly $3 million in combined funding specifically for our North Country and Capital Region operations, BHSN is set to expand our vocational rehabilitation efforts, helping individuals transition from treatment to stable, fulfilling careers. Why Employment Matters in Recovery Research has shown that a job is much more than a paycheck. For someone navigating the journey of recovery from addiction, stable employment provides: Structure and Purpose: A reason to get up and a place to belong to every day. Financial Independence: The ability to provide for oneself and family. Social Connections: A healthy community of colleagues that helps prevent the isolation that often leads to relapse. Strengthening Our Team to Support Yours This funding, provided through the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), allows BHSN to hire and retain dedicated Substance Clinicians, Certified Recovery Peer Advocates, and Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselors. These specialists will work one-on-one with individuals we serve to: Identify personal skills and career interests. Provide hands-on job training and placement support. Bridge the gap between clinical treatment and the local workforce. “Governor Hochul continues to demonstrate her commitment to growing and strengthening recovery services in the North Country, the Capital Region, and across this entire state,” said Katherine Cook, President and CEO of BHSN. “This funding will allow BHSN to invest in and retain service providers who directly support our communities, while delivering lifesaving and lifechanging programs and services to those in recovery. Employment opportunities that provide fulfillment, structure, and financial independence are key to success in recovery, and we look forward to uplifting our communities with this support from the state.” Looking Toward a Brighter Future At BHSN, we believe that every individual has the capacity for growth and success. This initiative reinforces our commitment to treating the “whole person,” ensuring that once the initial steps of recovery are taken, the path to a stable and prosperous future is clear and supported. Whether you are looking for support in your own recovery journey or are an employer looking to strengthen your workforce with resilient, motivated individuals, BHSN is here to help.

Nothing beats employees coming together for a great cause. There is a unique kind of energy that fills a room when neighbors come together for a common cause. Recently, that energy was felt across the North Country and Capital Region as BHSN hosted two incredibly successful blood drives at our Centers for Wellbeing in Plattsburgh and Queensbury. We are thrilled to share that through the collective generosity of our staff and neighbors, a total of 32 units of blood were collected across both events. At BHSN, our mission is built on the pillars of Safety, Belonging, and Purpose. There is perhaps no greater way to fulfill that purpose than by providing the literal “gift of life” to those in our community facing their most critical moments. From Morrisonville to Queensbury: A Community Effort We are still buzzing from the success of our drive at the Morrisonville Clinic. A huge thank you to the staff at the UVM Health Network – CVPH Adirondack Regional Blood Center for their expertise and commitment. They made the experience seamless and rewarding for every donor, ensuring our local hospitals have the vital resources they need right here at home. The momentum continued south at our Center for Wellbeing in Queensbury. Partnering with the American Red Cross, we were honored to provide a space for our neighbors to give back in a life-changing way. Every pint collected is proof of the compassion of our staff and the residents of the Capital Region. All smiles for our staff donating blood at our Queensbury location. Why It Matters In our ongoing work, we recognize that health is not just about clinical appointments but about fostering a culture of wellness and mutual support. Whether it was a first-time donor or a regular gallon-club member, seeing our community unite reminds us of the incredible impact we can make when we work together. Didn’t Get a Chance to Donate? If you missed these events, don’t worry! The need for blood is constant, and our commitment to hosting these drives is just as steady. Stay tuned to our social media pages for announcements on our next scheduled drives. We can’t wait to see you there, rolling up your sleeves to support the North Country and Capital Region.

February has been a whirlwind, but at BHSN, we know that the heart of our mission is our people. This month, we hit “pause” on our busy schedules to prioritize what matters most: our health and well-being. We are thrilled to celebrate the success of our First Annual Employee Wellness Fair, hosted across our Queensbury and Plattsburgh locations. Strengthening our Team, Onsite and Remote One of the most rewarding aspects of the fair was seeing our community come together. Whether they work in our onsite clinics or provide vital care via telehealth, our staff stepped away from their screens and offices to connect in person. It was a powerful reminder that while we serve our community in different ways, we are one team dedicated to elevating well-being. Interactive Learning & “Passport” Fun The energy at both the Queensbury Training Room and the Plattsburgh Center for Wellbeing was electric. Staff explored a variety of interactive stations designed to provide practical, everyday health hacks: Nutritional Fuel: Learning to “Build-a-Bowl" for sustained energy, while diving into the science of gut health. Staff explored the benefits of prebiotics and probiotics to support digestion and boost the immune system. Movement & Mindfulness: Engaging in yoga, breathwork, and quick mobility resets to combat the workday slump. Health Milestones: Checking in on blood pressure and setting personalized wellness goals. Bio-Hacking Health: Discovering the science of hydration and how to boost “happy chemicals” naturally. Pause ‘N Play: Taking a much-needed break for fun and games to spark creativity and connection. The Power of Gratitude: Reflecting on positive moments and sharing appreciation for our colleagues. Cultivating a Culture of Care At BHSN, we believe that an investment in employee wellness is an investment in the quality of care we provide to our community. When we take the time to refuel and reset, we can show up even stronger for the individuals and families who rely on us. Thank you to everyone who made our first annual employee wellness fair a resounding success! Watch the highlights here:

President and CEO Katherine Cook Photo Credit to Strictly Business In 2025, leadership was not just about navigating change but about strengthening internal systems, being nimble and planning for the future.     Recently, our President and CEO Katherine Cook joined regional leaders at the 36 th  Annual Strictly Business Forum to discuss the evolving landscape of the North Country. Amid political uncertainty and workforce shifts, the message from Table Four was clear: Resilience is built through Integrity   and Connection.     A Year of Measured Growth and Stability    Under Katherine’s leadership, 2025 was defined by stronger organizational alignment and meeting critical financial targets. “Our systems became more stable, our workforce more supported, and our internal culture more cohesive,” Katherine shared during the forum. This focus on internal systems has led to significant staff retention, allowing BHSN to be a leader in employment in the region.     Transforming the Rural Model    When asked about the single most exciting opportunity for our region, Katherine’s vision was ambitious: positioning the North Country as a national model for rural, integrated, community-based care.     By partnering with local anchors like CVPH, SUNY, and the Plattsburgh Housing Authority, BHSN is moving beyond “siloed” efforts to a shared vision for the region. We are tackling the social determinants of health (like housing and childcare) to ensure that behavioral health care is accessible to everyone, regardless of their zip code.     The BHSN Legacy: 150 Years and Beyond    Katherine noted, BHSN is has been a pillar of community support, a 150-year-old institution that is “not going anywhere.” We are building a future-ready system where our employees and the people we serve find safety, belonging, and purpose. As we lead with integrity and thrive through connection, we invite our community to join us in this vision.     Want to read more about Katherine’s thoughts on federal policy, workforce housing, and the future of the North Country?  Read the full “Guiding Growth: Business, Policy, and Opportunity” article by Strictly Business NY here .