MHAT Executive Director Position Filled

Mental Health America of the Triangle (MHAT) is pleased to announce that it has appointed Benjamin Staples, MS, MBA as its new executive director. Staples was selected out of a pool of over 50 applicants, through the aid of MHAT board and staff, who performed a thorough search and interview process. Staples brings to the position extensive clinical and administrative experience in mental health. His first day on the job was Tuesday, January 1, 2013.

“I am thrilled to join MHAT as executive director,” says Staples. “It seems my entire career has led me to this point: shepherding a small yet vibrant organization through a transition of growth, and nurturing it as it realizes its potential.” Staples is referring to MHAT’s strategic initiative to expand its reach throughout the Triangle.

As executive director, Staples will oversee daily operations of MHAT while working closely with the board and staff to shape future MHAT policy, strategy and goals. In addition to providing a strong internal leadership role, Staples will also be responsible for the development of public outreach and serve as MHAT spokesperson.

Staples has worked in many areas of health care, ranging from substance abuse, mental health, and industrial injury to traumatic brain injury. Administratively, he has served as health center administrator for clinical psychiatry services at Duke Hospital and Clinics, executive director of NAMI North Carolina, and regional leadership consultant with NAMI National.

A native of Durham, N.C., Ben attended Durham Public Schools and graduated with a degree in psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He went on to complete a masters of science in rehabilitation counseling at the School of Medicine at UNC-Chapel Hill and a masters in business administration at Seattle Pacific University.

“We are happy to welcome Ben to MHAT and look forward to learning from and working with him as we evolve to meet the ever-growing need for better mental health and substance abuse services in the Triangle,” says Michael Jokich, president of MHAT’s Board of Directors.