PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Brien Center for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services announced the promotion of Meri-Ellen Morgans, MSW, to Division Director of the Adult Community Clinical Supports (ACCS) Program. 

 

With more than 30 years of experience in clinical social work and mental health administration, Morgans brings leadership, expertise, and compassion to this role.

 

As Division Director, Morgans oversees an array of recovery-focused programs designed to support adults with significant mental health challenges across Berkshire County. She leads multidisciplinary teams, guides clinical best practices, and ensures compliance with state standards while fostering collaboration with partners, including the Department of Mental Health and Berkshire Medical Center.

 

"Meri-Ellen has long been a pillar of our clinical team," said Paul Hickling, Senior Vice President, Service Operations at the Brien Center. "Her promotion reflects her deep commitment to client-centered care, staff development, and the mission of our agency."

 

In addition to her full-time leadership responsibilities, Morgans serves as a Medical Social Worker (per diem) with HospiceCare of the Berkshires, where she provides end-of-life information and grief support, including leading holiday bereavement groups for families navigating loss.

 

Morgans is also a long-time Adjunct Field Instructor, having mentored social work interns from institutions such as SUNY Albany, Boston College, Simmons College, Smith College, Westfield State University, Boston University, and the University of New England.

 

Morgans previously held roles at the Brien Center, including Assistant Division Director, Program Director, Program Manager, and Program Supervisor. She also served as Interim Division Director of Community Services, where she oversaw multiple clinical programs and helped prepare the agency for key regulatory reviews.

 

She holds a Master of Social Work from Adelphi University and a Bachelor of Science from Pace University.