Macomb County CMH announces new chief of operations
A longtime official in Macomb County Community Mental Health has been named its new chief operations officer.
Helen Klingert, who has worked at CMH for 20 years, began serving in the position on an interim basis last January to replace Traci Smith, who was elevated interim CEO to fill in for the departed CEO Dave Pankotai, CMH officials said in a news release. Klingert will now serve on a permanent basis after Smith was named CEO in August.
Smith praised Klingert for her past efforts and is confident she will continue on that path.
"Klingert's dedication to providing the highest quality of care has improved the effectiveness and efficiency of MCCMH's services," Smith said in the release. "I am confident that under her leadership, we will continue to expand our impact in the community, ensuring that those we serve receive the support they need to thrive."
Klingert led the Substance Use Department at Macomb County CMH for four years as the substance use disorders director and 16 years as the assistant director, officials said. She is also an experienced therapist, providing services to individuals with serious mental health and/or substance-use-disorder issues as a limited licensed psychologist and certified advanced alcohol and drug counselor.
While serving as the interim COO, Klingert secured grants to enhance care, established policies that held the organization to high standards, and ensured continued progress in achieving CMH's strategic plan, officials said.
"I am grateful for the opportunity to utilize my behavioral health and leadership experience to advance MCCMH's mission and help those we serve to achieve recovery," Klingert said. "By enhancing access to our robust system of care, we can improve the overall health and well-being of our community."
Klingert earned a bachelor's degree in psychology at Oakland University in Rochester and completed her master's degree in clinical psychology at Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti.
CMH, one of the largest government agencies in the county, is funded by federal and state dollars. It provides health care services regardless of income or insurance, focusing services for mental health, including psychiatric evaluations, substance abuse, including medication reviews, and the intellectual and developmentally disabled,
To learn more about MCCMH, visit www.mccmh.net. Non-emergency access can be reached at 855-996-2264. The MCCMH Crisis Line is available around-the-clock at 586-307-9100.
