New Child and Family director excited to join Bert Nash Center team

Nicole Stafford can’t wait to get started in her new role as director of Child and Family Services at the Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center.

For Stephen O’Neill, Bert Nash Center Chief Operations Officer, the feeling is mutual.

“I am particularly excited about bringing Nicole into our organization because of her extensive experience in the Kansas Community Mental Health Center system. She has done nearly every job within a Child and Family department and will bring a tremendous amount of understanding to our team members and the children and families we serve,” O’Neill said. “But, most importantly, I could tell from my many conversations with Nicole that she truly wants to be here and considers the opportunity to serve Douglas County her ‘dream job.’”

Nicole has been working in the community mental health field for a

dozen years in a variety of positions. From 2008-2019, Nicole worked for PACES with the Wyandot Center for Community Behavioral Healthcare. PACES provides a full spectrum of mental and behavioral health services for children and adolescents. She has been with the Children’s Mercy Pediatric Care Network since 2019.

“I’m so excited and feel blessed and honored to be part of the Bert Nash family,” Nicole said. “I have dedicated my career and my passion to the wellbeing of Kansas children and families through providing service and treatment. Each role I’ve had has allowed me to learn more about trauma and attachment and the key role that plays in development and recovery.”

Nicole will begin her new duties Nov. 16.

“I can’t wait to start at Bert Nash and learn all the things you all are doing to promote community wellness for individuals, children and families lives,” Nicole said. “I hope to share my knowledge, passion, and creativity to help to continue to grow and improve where it is needed. I’m so pumped!”