News, Events & Press

On September 29, CMHA's Young Adult Services division sponsored a special Recovery Month event at New Britain High School featuring former NBA star and acclaimed public speaker, Chris Herren. Since 2009, Herren has toured the country to share his recovery journey and empower students and communities alike to rethink how we look at the disease of addiction, "from the last day to the first."

"Chris gave an incredibly personal presentation and shared his recovery journey in a brutally honest format with just a microphone," said Assistant Clinical Director of Intensives Jessica Cestaro.

New Britain High School students, members of the Boys and Girls Club, community members, and CMHA clients & staff attended the event. CMHA Peer Recovery Specialist Jake Reilly was a unique attendee in that this was his second time hearing Chris Herren speak.

"As a recovering addict myself, who had the opportunity to avoid years of immeasurable pain by heeding Chris Herren’s warning when he came to my High School in 2014, I urge everyone to keep Chris' message at the forefront of their minds and to continue educating themselves," said Reilly.

 What does it mean to be an LMHA? As a Local Mental Health Authority for our region, CMHA offers a wide range of therapeutic programs and crisis intervention services and is entrusted with providing these life-saving behavioral health care services to individuals who may otherwise not receive the quality treatment they need and deserve.

The below video segment features Alyssa Hunter, CMHA's Assistant Vice President of Intensive Programming, as she discusses the vital work CMHA does in our communities.

Click here to watch the full video and learn more!

CONGRATULATIONS SEPTEMBER 2022 SPOTLIGHT RECIPIENTS!

John Nazarian - Medical Director

To provide the vital care that we do, it's important to have a strong team, and know that we can rely on each other. Dr. Nazarian actively assists whenever or wherever there is a need, and is known for his caring, patient, and even-keeled ways. Thank you Dr. Nazarian for supporting our staff and being their 'solid ground' !

Maritza Rios Colon - Clinician

The little things make a big difference. Maritza Rios-Colon is quick to help others but also quick to shine a light on their accomplishments, spreading positivity and boosting morale as she goes. Her selflessness, humility, & constant kind words make her invaluable to her team and the agency. Thank YOU Maritza!!

Megan Fisher - Lead Employment Specialist

From early on, Megan Fisher showed herself to be a leader and role model in the Vocational program. Megan co-leads the new Creative Corner Art Store with YAS staff, and is always willing to lend a hand, whether it's with client support, committee meetings, or special events. Thank you, Megan for everything you do!

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR AUGUST 2022 SPOTLIGHT RECIPIENTS!

Edward Ford - Program Coordinator

By helping individuals improve their quality of life, CMHA helps to better our community, so it's especially wonderful when our colleagues are publicly recognized for their efforts. Congratulations to Ed Ford on being recognized at this years' 100 Men of Color Awards Gala! Ed is always thinking about how he can improve the lives of others, and hopes to inspire the next generation of community leaders who will go on to make a difference - just as he has! Well deserved, Ed!

Diego Alvarez - Clinician

CMHA prides itself on being a part of the communities we serve, and it takes special people to continue that effort for the benefit of our clients. Diego Alvarez has brought great enthusiasm to the Waterbury office, and consistently finds ways to get more involved - helping to lead our SMART Recovery groups, engaging with elected officials, and promoting our services to the greater public! Thank you so much, Diego - and congrats on your 1 year anniversary!

William Lonsdale - Program Coordinator

CMHA's Residential Teams do incredible work every day for our clients, and they also do incredible things to support each other. Bill Lonsdale has been leading by example, going above and beyond to help out staff across residential programs, stepping into direct care roles as needed. Bill always puts the client's needs first while finding fun, new things to do. Thank you for everything you accomplish each and every day, Bill!