NNews-Sep-2026

6 September 2026 NJAMHAA Shares New Board Chair’s Vision and Welcomes NewMembers continued frompage 5 Eman Gibson Though Eman Gibson is a newmember of the NJAMHAA Board, she has been a well-known, active contributor for several years, especially on NJAMHAA’s Addictions Practice Group, for which she took on the role of Vice Chair in 2024. Her wealth of expertise and experience in the clinical, operational and policy realms of behavioral health care ¬—including technical expertise on licensing and other regulations, legislation and policy—make her a tremendous asset to the association. Gibson joined Integrity House in 2012 and served in various roles, spanning direct practice, management and executive leadership. She is also an Adjunct Professor at Montclair State University and Rutgers University, teaching Psychology and Social Work. In addition, she serves on the New Jersey Department of Human Services’ Addictions Professional Advisory Committee and the National Council for Mental Wellbeing’s Board of Directors; and is a ProgramSurveyor for the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, specializing in behavioral health and opioid treatment providers. She alsoworkedwith the American Society of AddictionMedicine (ASAM) on developing the 4th Edition of the ASAM Criteria and strengthening the workforce nationwide. “ NJAMHAA is uniquely positioned to drive solutions through initiatives like the New Jersey Mental Health Institute Leadership Academy for Behavioral Healthcare Professionals, which cultivates clinical talent, while simultaneously fighting for rate increases to protect thin provider margins from being eroded by inflation. ” Eman Gibson, MBA, LCSW, LCADC NJAMHAA BoardMember Chief Clinical Officer of Integrity House AlanDeStefano, MSW, Executive Director of Cape Atlantic IntegratedNetwork for Kids, was elected to serve as Vice Chair. – “NJAMHAA’s impact is felt far beyond any single organization. Its advocacy strengthens the entire behavioral health system, elevates the voices of providers and the people we serve, and helps keepmental health and addiction services at the forefront of public policy inNew Jersey. As the needs of children, families, and communities continue to evolve, NJAMHAA is uniquely positioned to bring providers together, advance thoughtful policy solutions, and ensure that mental health and substance use services remain a priority for leaders at every level of government.” Jacques Hryshko, LPC, ACS, President and CEO of Family Connections, Inc., was elected to serve as Treasurer. - “During this time of disruption and uncertainty, it is critical that agencies partner in advocacy. I am honored to be able to continue to work with the NJAMHAA staff and the NJAMHAA Board to ensure that the voice of agency work and the people we serve are heard,” Jacques said. Derry Holland, LCSW, Chief Executive Officer of Oaks Integrated Care, was elected to serve a second term as Secretary. – “Being part of an association that champions collaboration, amplifies our collective voice, and provides strong advocacy with legislators and key stakeholders is an invaluable resource for Oaks and the entire behavioral health community. Congratulations to the other NJAMHAAOfficers and Elected/Re-elected At-LargeMembers continued on page 7 continued on page 7