Working with Us
More than 1,100 people make up the care team at Maine Behavioral Healthcare. Each individual is uniquely gifted in their area of expertise and together represent the largest behavioral health service area in Maine. We are pleased to share a few of our care team members with you.
The Maine Behavioral Healthcare Leadership Triad
Last year’s addition of Jason Rosenberg as Maine Behavioral Healthcare’s (MBH) Chief Nursing Officer marked formation of the MBH leadership triad. This team shares accountability for management, outcomes, and quality improvement of the organization. As seasoned leaders, each member has a unique perspective. When combined, this creates a balanced approach to leading our care team members and supporting them so they can provide the best care to our communities.
Linda S. Durst, MD
Chief Medical Officer, MBH and Chair, Department of Psychiatry, Maine Medical Center
“Together, we are better informed, aligned, and effective.”
Maria C. Hadjiyane, PhD, LPC, CSAC
Chief Operating Officer
”We gain synergy by working together, in perspective, problem solving, creativity, and support.”
Jason Rosenberg, MSN
Chief Nursing Officer
“Our collaboration and respect for each other’s expertise helps us thoughtfully address challenges and advance patient outcomes.”
Tom Kivler, LCPC, CCS
Senior Director, Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Tom recently joined Maine Behavioral Healthcare from Mid Coast Hospital. He feels privileged to be part of someone’s journey into recovery and in providing support for the care team members who help people with substance use disorder.
“Our care team members bring compassion and evidence-based treatment to our clients. However, doing so places unique demands on our people and that means we need to work together to take care of ourselves.”
Mike Sirois
Data Analyst II
Mike created a valuable tool used for tracking patient safety and improving quality care across MBH and the MaineHealth system.
“I love the idea of building helpful, reliable tools to leverage our data and give a bird’s-eye view wherever it’s needed.”
Adam Guiou
Special Education Teacher
Adam is proud to work with middle school students and is one of the many outstanding professionals providing care at the Glickman Lauder Center of Excellence in Autism and Developmental Disorders.
“I learn more about myself every day from playing and interacting with these kids and that helps me be a better person.”
Kacie Loparto
Residential Care Worker
Kacie has been commended for her outstanding efforts to ensure the safety of residents at the Owls Head residential home and for understanding that a safe environment contributes to positive mental health.
“A safe residential facility makes for a happier home for residents and enjoyable workplace for staff members.”
Marissa Ellis
Registered Nurse Recovery
As a new member of the Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) team in Biddeford, Marissa appreciates having the opportunity to do meaningful work with clients struggling with significant behavioral health and substance use issues.
“Here at MBH, I feel fully supported in my efforts to go above and beyond for clients who have no one else to turn to.”
Jacqueline Belknap, LCSW
Clinician
Jacqueline is a new member of the Damariscotta team where she helps people with lifelong trauma lead more enjoyable and fulfilling lives.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to guide my clients toward understanding how early childhood events can explain their current behavior so they can decide not to let their past control their present. I am in awe of their strength and courage.”
Paula Hirtle, RN
Admissions Nurse
As a new care team member working in the admissions office at Spring Harbor Hospital, Paula demonstrates compassion to patients and their family members.
“It’s important to welcome people with a smile and kindness on what is usually a very difficult day.”
Sumayya Ayaz, MD
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist
Dr. Ayaz is a new provider in the Portland outpatient office who enjoys making a difference in the lives of the young people she treats and working with their families and school systems.
“I am fortunate to work with a team of caring and empathic professionals who are dedicated to providing the best possible mental health care that our patients and their families need.”