Wood River Health Services Behavioral Health Services

Two new staff hired

Sarah Channing

Tegwyn Lacz

In response to the increased demand for behavioral health services in its community, Wood River Health Services (WRHS) has expanded its team of behavioral health providers by hiring Vicki Carter, PSYD and Tegwyn Lacz, LMFT. Behavioral health services are available to current WRHS medical or dental patients as part of their integrated care that reflects the whole of each individual’s unique health needs. 

WRHS’ behavioral health services offers integrated counseling and psychiatric services to WRHS patients experiencing issues such as chronic health conditions, anxiety, depression, life changes, relationship issues, grief and loss, substance use and medication management.  

“The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted the behavioral health of our community members,” stated WRHS’ President & CEO Alison Croke, MHA. “Expanding our behavioral health team in Hope Valley and Westerly means more of our patients will be connected with the tools and support they require to improve their quality of life.” 

Vicki Carter

Vicki Carter, PSYD and Tegwyn Lacz, LMFT have recently accepted positions as Behavioral Health Clinicians at WRHS. They have joined a collaborative team of doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners and behavioral health clinicians who work in partnership with patients, providing them with evidence-based tools and support to help them achieve their individualized recovery plans.  

To better serve its behavioral health patients, WRHS recently launched a Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) program, an evidence-based method of treatment that aids individuals in managing their substance use. MAT is one of the safest and most effective options available for individuals living with Substance Use Disorders (SUDs). Program costs are covered by Medicaid and most private insurance companies.  

“Our MAT program offers an effective approach that includes counseling and medications that focus on managing symptoms, feelings and behaviors associated with substance use,” shared WRHS’ Director of Behavioral Health Amanda Brycki, LMHC, LPC. “We provide individualized support to help our patients believe they can be successful and achieve their personal treatment goals.” 

WRHS is also a partner in the Zero Suicide Program, which is funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and administered by a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist. For information about WRHS’ behavioral health programs or Medication Assisted Treatment, call (401) 539-2461. 

About Wood River Health Services 

Since 1976, Wood River Health Services (WRHS) has provided high-quality affordable medical, dental and social services to the communities of southwestern Rhode Island and southeastern Connecticut. A private, non-profit Community Health Center, WRHS is devoted to providing quality patient care to more than 8,000 patients. It is recognized by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) as a Patient-Centered Medical Home. WRHS is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), a community-based health care provider that receives funds from the HRSA Health Center Program to provide primary care services in underserved areas. FQHCs must adhere to a stringent set of requirements including providing care on a sliding fee scale based on the ability to pay and operating under a governing board that includes at least 51% patient-members. For information about its programs and services, visit WRHSRI.org.