UPDATE: After an impressive 30 years at the helm, Mike Berney has announced his retirement as Executive Director of Palouse River Counseling, effective December 2023. This announcement comes as the Pullman-based nonprofit organization prepares for a significant leadership transition, promoting Kathleen Stewardson, the current Clinical Director, to take over the executive director role.
Berney’s departure marks the end of an era for Palouse River Counseling, which he has been instrumental in developing since he took over from the former Whitman County Mental Health Services. Under his leadership, the organization transformed from a county-operated service into an independent nonprofit in 2003, allowing for enhanced service delivery to the community.
During his tenure, Berney witnessed a dramatic evolution in behavioral health services in the region. “It’s almost a night and day difference,” Berney stated, reflecting on the center’s growth from just 20 staff members to more than 40 today, comprising psychologists, counselors, social workers, psychiatrists, and nurses. The clinic now offers a wide range of outpatient resources, including individual therapy, crisis intervention, substance abuse treatment, and medication management.
The center has made strides in improving access to mental health care, adopting a sliding scale payment model to accommodate clients’ financial situations. Berney emphasized the center’s mission to serve adults, children, and families across Whitman County, noting that the ability to cater to those in need is the organization’s greatest accomplishment.
Berney also highlighted a cultural shift around behavioral health, with a growing acceptance and understanding of mental health issues. “People are more comfortable acknowledging they can benefit from the services,” he explained. The ongoing conversation around mental health has contributed to a reduction in stigma, allowing individuals to recognize the importance of mental well-being as part of overall health.
The transition of leadership comes at a critical time as the community continues to address mental health challenges. Berney expressed optimism for the future, stating, “We’ve got a great group of people that work here. I believe that the new executive director will carry on and make behavioral health services even more available to the residents of Pullman and Whitman County.”
As the organization gears up for this leadership change, all eyes are on Stewardson, who will be tasked with continuing Berney’s legacy and further enhancing the support services available to those in need.
For updates on this developing story and more on community health initiatives, stay tuned.
