PARTNERSHIP IN THE NEWS

A need perceived, a proposal written and the Corsica River Mental Health Services, Inc. was born. With the financial support of the Queen Anne’s County Local Management Board and Mid-Shore Mental Health Systems, Inc. the public mental health clinic, located at 120 Banjo Lane in Centreville is scheduled to open in the early fall. Directed by 4’11” dynamo DeNene Camper Stewart, the outpatient clinic serving children, adolescents, and adults in Queen Anne’s County will initiate services during its first year in partnership with the Lower Shore Clinic.

Clinic Administrator Stewart began her professional career in 1993 as a paid intern in mental health services and has never looked back. A graduate of Hampton University Stewart found her niche in the mental health field. She is very familiar with clinic environs for those with persistent mental illness. Prior to employment with Crossroads Community, Inc. she worked as the Systems Auditor/ Training Coordinator and co-chair of Medical Records Committee for Vesta, Inc. a large and comprehensive behavioral health care organization located on the western shore.

The clinic will provide both traditional and innovative therapeutic programs for those seeking services and insured through Medical Assistance (MA). Referrals are mandatory for children and adolescents and a scheduled walk-in service will also be available. The Maryland Telepsychiatry Program, a connection to excellence in Psychiatric Care, will be one of the innovations offered at the clinic, states Stewart.

Newly appointed board member Rick Caporin, an 18-year veteran in the field of psychiatric medicine, shares Stewart’s excited anticipation of opening. “I have long wanted to have the opportunity to bring my experiences and assets to the local area,” states Johns Hopkins’ nurse Caporin. “There is so much more we can do in mental health services on the Eastern Shore, “ he adds. Caporin was delighted to accept the challenge of clinic board membership when approached to serve by John Plaskon, Executive Director of Crossroads Community, Inc. Robert Price, III, Bill Seth, Rebecca Clark and newly appointed president Roger Harrell join Caporin on a board still in its recruitment phase.

Volunteering for a nonprofit organization is a gratifying as well as satisfying experience. Being on the ground floor of an operation so critical to our community is an opportunity that increases the benefits accrued to both the individual and the organization. “Corsica River Mental Health Services is looking for individuals who have an interest in the mental health field and have familiarity with business practices,” states Plaskon.

If you have an interest in becoming a part of this cutting edge organization or questions about the operation of the clinic please contact Stewart at stewartd@ccinconline.com or 410.829.9095.