Frank A. Ghinassi Honored with Extraordinary Leadership Award for Mental Health Leadership

A Pioneering Figure in Behavioral Health

Frank A. Ghinassi, PhD, ABPP, has been a stalwart in the field of mental health and addiction services. His dedication and innovative approach to leadership have earned him the esteemed title of Senior Vice President of Behavioral Health Services at RWJBarnabas Health and President and CEO of Rutgers Health University Behavioral Health Care (UBHC). Recently, Dr. Ghinassi was honored with the Extraordinary Leadership Award, a testament to his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of individuals and communities through comprehensive behavioral health care.

A Career Marked by Innovation and Excellence

Dr. Ghinassi's journey in behavioral health began with his academic pursuits. He earned his BA from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, his MA from Duquesne University, and his PhD from the University of Akron. His academic background laid the foundation for his future roles as a licensed psychologist and board-certified executive coach.

Before joining UBHC, Dr. Ghinassi held various prominent positions that showcased his expertise and leadership skills. At Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Presbyterian Shadyside, he served as Vice President for Quality, Patient Safety, Regulatory Compliance, and Health Information Management. Additionally, he was an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, actively involved in the training of psychiatric residents and doctoral psychology interns.

A Comprehensive Approach to Behavioral Health

As President and CEO of UBHC, Dr. Ghinassi oversees a statewide system of academically based mental health and addiction services across New Jersey. This system includes a wide range of clinical and support services, such as inpatient units, partial hospitalization programs, intensive outpatient programming, case management, traditional outpatient treatment, correctional health care, and several Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers. His leadership has ensured that these services are not only accessible but also tailored to meet the diverse needs of the population.

Synergies Between Rutgers Health and RWJBarnabas Health

One of the most significant contributions of Dr. Ghinassi has been his role in fostering synergies between Rutgers Health and RWJBarnabas Health. As Senior Vice President of Behavioral Health Services at RWJBarnabas Health, he has been instrumental in streamlining strategic direction and operational excellence across both organizations. This dual role allows for cohesive and interdisciplinary care pathways, enhancing the overall quality of behavioral health services in New Jersey.

A Leader in Mental Health Care

Dr. Ghinassi's impact extends beyond his administrative roles. He is also a Professor at the Rutgers Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology and an Adjunct Professor of Psychiatry at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. His involvement in academic institutions underscores his commitment to education and research in the field of mental health.

Moreover, Dr. Ghinassi's expertise has been sought by various national and state organizations. He has been a frequent invited presenter at national professional meetings and conferences. His involvement in SAMHSA planning committees, CMS commissioned technical expert panels, NCQA expert panels, and National Quality Forum advisory groups demonstrates his influence in shaping policies and standards for behavioral health care.

Honored for His Contributions

The Extraordinary Leadership Award is a testament to Dr. Ghinassi's dedication and innovative approach to mental health leadership. This prestigious honor recognizes his exceptional contributions to the field, particularly in the implementation and evaluation of evidence-based treatments for mood disorders, quality of care, and performance measurement metrics.

Dr. Ghinassi's leadership has been instrumental in improving the measurement and delivery of behavioral healthcare. His work has been recognized with the National Quality Award in 2007, and he currently serves as the Chair of the Addiction Treatment Quality Workgroup for NABH. Additionally, he chairs the Quality Committee of NABH and serves on the Boards of the New Jersey Hospital Association and the New Jersey Association of Mental Health and Addiction Agencies.

A Legacy of Service

Frank A. Ghinassi is not only a leader in mental health but also a role model for his commitment to stigma-free behavioral health services. His legacy extends beyond his professional accomplishments; he has been a player development educator and evaluator for the National Football League and a psychologist for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Penguins, demonstrating his ability to bridge gaps between different fields.

Conclusion

Frank A. Ghinassi's honor with the Extraordinary Leadership Award is a well-deserved recognition of his unwavering commitment to improving mental health services. His innovative approach to leadership, his dedication to education and research, and his extensive experience in the field make him a pivotal figure in shaping the future of behavioral health care. As we move forward, it is clear that Dr. Ghinassi's contributions will continue to inspire generations of mental health professionals and serve as a beacon of excellence in the field.

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References

1. NJAMHAA Conference Features National and State Experts; Honors...: NJAMHAA Conference
2. Frank A. Ghinassi Honored with Extraordinary Leadership Award for...: Rutgers Blog
3. Join NJAMHAA at the Fall Conference for Inspiring and Insightful...: NJAMHAA Fall Conference
4. Frank A. Ghinassi, PhD, ABPP - Rutgers UBHC: Rutgers UBHC
5. Frank A. Ghinassi, PhD, SVP of RWJBH, Behavioral Health and...: RWJBH Blog