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 .

BHSN is excited to announce the opening of our new Adult and Youth Crisis Residence. This project, 5 years in the making had its opening ceremony this week with representatives from our community partners, local government, law enforcement and more. We are excited about the amazing difference this will make in the lives of our community members struggling with mental health issues. Check out coverage of the event below: NBC5 https://www.mynbc5.com/article/mental-health-crises-residency-plattsburgh/62247626 WCAX https://www.wcax.com/2024/09/17/new-residential-crisis-center-opens-plattsburgh/ WAMC https://www.wamc.org/news/2024-09-19/new-residential-crisis-center-opens-in-plattsburgh

Changing Lives. Strengthening Families. Building Safer Communities. The Personal Accountability Changing Tomorrows (PACT) program at Behavioral Health Services North (BHSN) helps individuals take responsibility for their actions, learn new ways of thinking, and build respectful, non-violent relationships. PACT is a batterer intervention and education program that works with people who have used violence or controlling behaviors in relationships. The goal is to promote accountability, challenge harmful beliefs, and increase safety for victims, families, and the broader community. A 36-Week Journey of Change Participants engage in a 36-week curriculum focused on self-reflection, communication, and emotional regulation. Lessons explore respect, empathy, impulse control, and belief systems that contribute to harmful behavior. Through discussion and skill-building, participants learn to replace patterns of power and control with responsibility, respect, and equality. A Proven Path Forward Most individuals are referred through the court system or social services as an alternative to incarceration. The program maintains one of the region’s highest completion rates, and participants rarely re-enter the criminal justice system. Each success represents not just one life changed—but a safer home and community. Breaking Down Barriers Financial hardship can make participation difficult. Thanks to a $10,000 grant from the Clinton County Public Defender’s Office, more individuals can now access this life-changing opportunity. “This partnership with the Public Defender’s Office is essential,” said Julie Canepa, Director of PACT at BHSN. “By removing cost barriers, we can reach more people and strengthen our community’s collective efforts to end the cycle of violence.” Our Commitment BHSN remains dedicated to supporting accountability, promoting respect, and fostering lasting change. Every individual deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to a safer tomorrow. Read the Article in the Sun Community News My Champlain Valley ABC22/Fox44 WCAX CBS-3

Behavioral Health Services North announced Dec. 23 the launch of Together Totes, a new community initiative providing essential hygiene and seasonal care items to individuals and families in crisis in the North Country.   The program is supported through grant funding from The Foundation of CVPH. The collaboration hopes to bring much-needed support to our community when it is needed most, according to a press release from BHSN.   The program is expected to reach over 1,000 individuals annually, with at least 500 care packages distributed in its first operational year through local community partners and multiple BHSN-run community programs.   Three deliveries of the totes already took place Dec. 22, 23 and 24 to JCEO, the Interfaith Food Shelf in Plattsburgh and NAMI’s crisis center at MHAB.   Together Totes are filled with toiletries, basic hygiene products and winter essentials, such as hats and gloves. These items will be distributed to BHSN clients experiencing urgent needs, including those fleeing domestic violence, transitioning out of hospitalization or homelessness.   In addition to supporting BHSN programs, Together Totes will be shared with community partners, including JCEO, the Interfaith Food Pantry and other regional service providers, to strengthen collaboration and ensure equitable access to essential items across the community.   “The Foundation of CVPH’s support allows us to meet people at pivotal moments when a small act of care can make a major difference,” Kevin Cooney, marketing director at BHSN, said in the press release.   “Together Totes are about promoting dignity, stability, and wellness by making sure no one goes without the most basic essentials.” Read on the Plattsburgh Press Republican Coverage from WNBC5   Coverage from ABC22/FOX44 https://www.mychamplainvalley.com/video/plattsburgh-together-totes-help-people-get-by/11385207 Assembling and Delivering the Totes

New York recently earned the distinction of being ranked No. 1 in the nation for mental health care, according to Mental Health America’s 2024–2025 State of Mental Health in America report. This recognition is more than just a point of pride. It’s a powerful validation of the work that behavioral health organizations across the state, including ours at Behavioral Health Services North, have committed to every day, expanding access, improving outcomes, and building a stronger, healthier future for all New Yorkers.   This milestone reflects not just policy and funding, but people — our dedicated staff, our community partners and the individuals and families we serve. At BHSN, we’re proud to play a vital role in advancing mental health equity across the North Country and beyond, especially as part of a state that has become a national model for compassionate, comprehensive care.   Over the past five years, BHSN has worked diligently to expand the reach and impact of behavioral health services in northern New York in order to become one of the leading voices in mental health care with tangible results.   As one of just 35 organizations statewide selected to implement the federal Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic model, we’ve dramatically increased access to care.   Since launching our first CCBHC in Morrisonville in 2020, the number of individuals served has grown by over 312%, from 1,702 to over 7,000, in 2025. This year alone, our CCBHCs have delivered nearly 200,000 services, including 24/7 crisis care, rapid access to treatment and targeted support for veterans and underserved populations. These aren’t just numbers, they represent lives stabilized, crises averted and individuals on the path to recovery.   For our children and youth, BHSN’s school-based mental health programs are making an equally powerful impact. During the 2024–2025 school year, we delivered 3,188 interventions, a 33% increase over the previous year. The result? A remarkable 95% of students were able to return to class the same day. Just 0.63% required a higher level of care.   These outcomes speak volumes about how early, on-site support can transform school environments and set young people up for success, not only academically, but emotionally.   To further fill critical service gaps, BHSN opened adult and children’s crisis residences in Plattsburgh — six-bed facilities offering short-term, home-like environments to support stabilization and avoid unnecessary hospitalizations. In less than a year, these programs have already served over 70 individuals. Each day spent in these residences is a day of safety, dignity and healing.   Of course, health and wellness can’t be separated from housing. That’s why BHSN has invested in supportive housing, developing 80 affordable units, including 40 with on-site services through the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative. These homes offer more than shelter, they offer stability, independence and a foundation for lasting recovery.   Beyond clinical care, we remain deeply committed to community engagement, raising awareness, reducing stigma and promoting resilience. Through public education campaigns, domestic violence prevention work and wellness events, we aim to make mental health part of everyday conversation.   As we celebrate this moment of recognition for New York, we know our work is far from done. The demand for behavioral health services continues to grow. The challenges from workforce shortages to funding constraints are real, but so is the progress we’re making together. At BHSN, we believe every individual deserves access to the care they need close to home delivered with compassion and respect. We are honored to serve the communities of Northern New York and to contribute to a statewide system that leads the nation in mental health care.   Now is the time to build on this momentum. Let’s continue investing in innovative models, expanding equitable access and lifting up the voices of those with lived experience.   Read the article DCDon the Press Republican Website

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, BHSN is proud to announce a series of events and activities throughout the month of May that highlight the intersection of art and mental health. The events are designed to promote mental well-being, encourage communication, and provide resources to support emotional and psychological health within our community. “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.” Scheduled Activities Include: Kickoff Event: Art in the Myers Lobby Gallery Introduction and Hands-On Art Project with Amber Doreyland, M.A., ATR (materials provided) SUNY Plattsburgh Myers Gallery Lobby Plattsburgh State Art Museum, 101 Broad St. Plattsburgh, NY Thursday, May 1, 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Open to the public. Outdoor Garden Sculpture Tour and Meet the Artist John Kokazka Stone Ledge Sculpture Park, 3901 State Route 9, Plattsburgh, NY Friday, May 16, 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. Open to the public. Closing Event: Juniper Sculpture Park Outdoor Sculpture Walk and Art Exhibit in the Barn 75 Fjord Drive, Plattsburgh, NY Saturday, May 31st, 1:00 -3:00 p.m. Open to the public.

BHSN was featured this week on ABC22 & Fox44 for the start of Mental Health Awareness Month. This month BHSN is focusing on how art can promote better mental health, as well as, advocating for all of us to take more time to address mental health in our communities Be a part of our events this May: Scheduled Activities Include: Kickoff Event: Art in the Myers Lobby Gallery Introduction and Hands-On Art Project with Amber Doreyland, M.A., ATR (materials provided) SUNY Plattsburgh Myers Gallery Lobby Plattsburgh State Art Museum, 101 Broad St. Plattsburgh, NY Thursday, May 1, 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Open to the public. Outdoor Garden Sculpture Tour and Meet the Artist John Kokazka Stone Ledge Sculpture Park, 3901 State Route 9, Plattsburgh, NY Friday, May 16, 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. Open to the public. Closing Event: Juniper Sculpture Park Outdoor Sculpture Walk and Art Exhibit in the Barn 75 Fjord Drive, Plattsburgh, NY Saturday, May 31st, 1:00 -3:00 p.m. Open to the public.

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.