NNews April 2024

35 April 2024 Debbie Chisolm, MA, MSW, LCSW. LCADC, LPC, ACS, CS, Executive Director, South Jersey Behavioral Health Resources (SJBHR) This enhancedmy interest even further to continue to move forwardmaking changes in others’ lives. The joy of knowing you helpmade a change in someone’s life—no money canmatch it! NJAMHAANews: What are the most prominent changes and developments that you have seen and achieved in your time at SJBHR? Debbie Chisolm: I have surpassed a vast number of challenges, but most importantly, I have created a sufficient amount of change in the consumers’ lives. I have advocated for those who could not and ensured that their voices are heard when it entails their treatment, goals, wants and needs and most importantly, their individualized choices. I have helped increase the number of consumers served, helped themsecure housing and employment, and assistedwith helping each consumer achieve their education goals. The most joyful thing that I experience is having the consumers call me as all havemy cell phone number and say, “Miss Debbie, I did it!” I have also brought change in staff; we are collectively working as a team and we all wear many hats. It does not depend on your title. NJAMHAANews: What new rewards are you experiencing as Executive Director? How has your perspective changed and what new challenges have you encountered in this role? NJAMHAANews: What is your educational and professional background? Debbie Chisolm: I have aMaster’s degree in Community Counseling from Alvernia University and a Master’s in Social Work from Widener University. I ama Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in New Jersey and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania. I have worked in the mental health field for more than 30 years, providing mental health and substance abuse services to adults, adolescents and children. I have also served the child populationwith those who have autism, Asperger’s and other developmental disabilities for more than 30 years. I have worked in an array of roles, including residential counselor, substance abuse counselor, psychiatric technician, certified nursing assistant, psychiatric social worker, programcoordinator, programmanager, therapist and director. NJAMHAANews: What inspired you to pursue a career in behavioral health and to develop expertise in a variety of areas? Debbie Chisolm: Since I was 10 years old, I always wanted to help individuals. I began at a very early age taking care of my great-grandmother with dementia and always wanted to learn about how the brainworks and how I canmake others feel better. Working as a nursing assistant and taking care of the elderly provided me with a sense of achievement. There was nothing like seeing people smile after taking care of them, especially when they had no one else but you, asmost families were not around. (continued on page 36)