Open Sky names new VP for behavioral health services

Read the original article from The Worcester Guardian.

Elizabeth Mandell brings extensive experience to lead integrated care initiatives

WORCESTER—Open Sky Community Services has announced the appointment of Elizabeth Mandell, MSW, LICSW, as vice president of Integrated Behavioral Health Services. 

Mandell will oversee the implementation of a federal grant supporting Open Sky’s Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC).

“Elizabeth’s direct clinical experience with individuals of all ages and her previous management of varied behavioral health programs across the care continuum make her an instrumental addition to Open Sky and the clients we serve,” said Ken Bates, president and CEO of Open Sky, in the announcement. “We are thrilled to welcome Elizabeth…and are excited about the innovation and clinical leadership that she brings.”

Mandell’s role focuses on expanding evidence-based behavioral health services for children, adolescents, adults, and families experiencing mental health challenges or substance use disorders. The CCBHC initiative is funded by a grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Before joining Open Sky, Mandell served as senior director at Massachusetts Behavioral Health Partnership/Carelon Behavioral Health, where she managed statewide Mobile Crisis Intervention programs. She also held a leadership role at the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families, overseeing clinical operations in Southeastern Massachusetts.

Mandell is a licensed independent clinical social worker with a master of social work from Boston College and a bachelor’s degree in social work from Bridgewater State University.

Based in Worcester, Open Sky provides services for more than 8,000 individuals annually across Central Massachusetts. With a workforce of 1,300 employees and nearly 150 programs, the nonprofit addresses challenges such as mental health issues, substance use disorders, homelessness, and more.

For more information, visit www.openskycs.org.