By J.R. Tidwell / Editor

CALERA — The Board of Directors of Chilton-Shelby Mental Health Center recently announced the hiring of a new executive director, according to a release made by the group.

Richard Fallin, who is originally from Cullman, has been a part of the field of mental health for over a decade.

He has been providing mental health services for children, teenagers, adults and the elderly, according to the release.

His experience includes program development, implementation, and oversight.

“Our mental health influences each thought and action, and plays a role in many of society’s most challenging issues,” Fallin said. “Alabama’s mental health centers do good, important work that is vital to every individual, family and community we serve.

“I have devoted my career to this work. I am honored and excited to join the staff and citizens of Chilton and Shelby counties who are also committed to this work. I look forward to developing partnerships that will strengthen the health of our citizens and our communities.”

Fallin was a children’s therapist with Mental Healthcare of Cullman at the onset of his career in the field.

Before being named executive director of the board, he was Geriatric Services Director for Wellstone, which according to the release is North Alabama’s largest behavioral healthcare provider.

“In addition to individual therapeutic services, Fallin brings with him wide-ranging leadership experience as a clinical director and manager at the Cullman facility,” said the release.

“Fallin is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a master’s degree in divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and a master’s degree in business administration from Troy University. He is also a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).”

Fallin will officially begin work in his new position on July 31.

According to the organization’s release, “The Mental Health Board of Chilton and Shelby Counties, Inc. is committed to providing quality behavioral healthcare services to residents of Chilton and Shelby Counties whose lives are impacted by mental illness, intellectual disabilities, substance use, substance abuse and/or emotional disturbance.

“The mission is to promote individual health and strengthen families. Program success of individuals with mental illness, intellectual disabilities, and substance abuse will be evidenced by improvements in social functioning, independent living functions and absence of or reduction in intensity, frequency of symptoms and/or family crisis.”