Child & Adolescent Treatment Services and Lake Shore Behavioral Health are now BestSelf Behavioral Health
(Buffalo, N.Y. – 6/1/2017) – – As of today, June 1, 2017, BestSelf Behavioral Health is the new standard in family-focused behavioral health in Western New York. Employing more than 525 people, the new organization is one of the largest community-based behavioral health organizations serving children and adults of all ages in Western New York.
Child & Adolescent Treatment Services and Lake Shore Behavioral Health announced the plans to merge several months ago. Since then, the two organizations have been working toward this goal of improving healthcare and reducing mental health stigma in our community.
“Today we celebrate what started as a formal affiliation two years ago when two like-minded organizations came together to offer a comprehensive set of behavioral health services to people of all ages,” stated Ellen Bieler, Board Chair of BestSelf Behavioral Health. “The new organization will occupy a distinct position in the behavioral health marketplace by providing a comprehensive array of family-focused services across the life span of health, wellness and recovery.”
Howard Hitzel, Psy.D., will serve as CEO of BestSelf Behavioral Health and lead the continued integration of the two organizations.
“It is my distinct honor and pleasure to lead our team of stellar professionals as we combine forces with an emphasis on employing evidence-based practices, improving healthcare integration, and reducing the stigma that is too often associated with mental and behavioral health,” stated Howard Hitzel, Psy.D.
Thank you to the following organizations who generously provided financial support for the merger: Community Foundation of Greater Buffalo, Dopkins & Company, Freed Maxick, Garman Family Foundation, Independent Health, John R. Oishei Foundation, Lawley Insurance, M & T Charitable Foundation, Patrick P. Lee Foundation, Peter and Elizabeth C. Tower Foundation, United Way of Buffalo & Erie County and Windstream.
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News Outlet Coverage:
- Buffalo Healthy Living – “Bestself Behavioral Health in WNY” – http://buffalohealthyliving.com/bestself-behavioral-health/