Sunday, June 11, 2023

Board appoints behavioral health admin

The San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors last week unanimously approved the appointment of Dr. Star Graber, Ph.D., LMFT, as the newly appointed Administrator of the Behavioral Health Department. 

Currently serving as the Division Manager for Drug and Alcohol Services within the department, Dr. Graber will assume her new role in August 2023.

With an illustrious career spanning an impressive 35 years in the County of San Luis Obispo, Dr. Graber has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication and expertise in the field. As the Division Manager, she has successfully secured substantial grant funding amounting to millions of dollars to support innovative substance use treatment and awareness programs throughout SLO County. Notably, her leadership has been instrumental in implementing pivotal initiatives such as the Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System, the Medication Assisted Treatment program, and the Adult and Family Drug Treatment Court programs, all of which have positively impacted the community. Beyond her administrative responsibilities, Dr. Graber also serves as an esteemed instructor of Addiction Studies at Cuesta College, sharing her knowledge and expertise with aspiring professionals in the field.

Health Agency Director Nick Drews commended Dr. Graber's exceptional reputation, stating, "Dr. Graber's widespread respect at the county, state, and federal levels is a testament to her remarkable contributions. We consider ourselves fortunate to have her take on this crucial role. Her deep wisdom, expertise, and unwavering commitment will undoubtedly continue to serve the Behavioral Health Department and the community with excellence."

Before assuming her current position, Dr. Graber held several key roles within the Behavioral Health Department, each contributing to her comprehensive understanding of the field. As the Drug and Alcohol Services Program Supervisor, she played a pivotal role in overseeing prevention programs in the community and schools, making a significant impact on public health. Additionally, she served as the Drug and Alcohol Services Program Coordinator, responsible for the Department's acclaimed Driving Under the Influence program. In the early stages of her career with the SLO Behavioral Health Department, Dr. Graber served as a Drug and Alcohol Specialist, providing vital treatment, classes, and training to individuals and families affected by substance use disorders.

Dr. Graber's educational achievements are as noteworthy as her professional accomplishments. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the esteemed University of Oregon. Furthermore, she has obtained a Master's degree in Counseling from Cal Poly and a Ph.D. in Psychology from California Coast University, demonstrating her deep commitment to professional development and enhancing her expertise in the field.

The official transition to Dr. Graber's leadership will take place in August, coinciding with the retirement of the current Behavioral Health Department Director, Anne Robin. This eagerly anticipated handover marks a significant milestone for the department, and Dr. Graber's appointment is poised to bring renewed energy and visionary leadership to the realm of behavioral health.

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