East Jordan, MI — East Jordan Family Health Center (EJFHC) is proud to congratulate Cynthia Pepin, Behavioral Health Director, for receiving the Michigan Primary Care Association’s (MPCA) Distinguished Service Award in recognition of her exceptional leadership, dedication, and transformative contributions to the health center’s behavioral health services.
Cynthia Pepin joined EJFHC on June 25, 2018, as a Behavioral and Substance Use Disorder Counselor. At the time, the health center offered co-located mental health services and was exploring a more integrated approach to behavioral health care. Cynthia’s vision and commitment to patient care quickly became evident, making her a pivotal force in expanding and enhancing behavioral health services.
In June 2021, Cynthia’s talent and leadership were recognized as she was promoted to Director of Behavioral Health Services. Under her direction, EJFHC has made significant strides in delivering integrated, team-based care, with social workers offering timely and comprehensive services to patients.
Since Cynthia’s arrival, the health center has seen extraordinary growth in behavioral health care:
- In 2018, 282 patients accessed behavioral health services for a total of 1,272 visits.
- By 2023, the program expanded to serve 1,689 patients, resulting in 3,733 visits, including telepsychiatry options.
Cynthia has also been instrumental in fostering staff development, and guiding team members from internships to fully licensed social work positions. Her efforts have ensured that the health center’s behavioral health team remains well-equipped to meet the community’s needs.
This year, Cynthia championed efforts to secure federal funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). This funding supports program expansion that will focus on veterans and their families, at-risk youth, and workplace wellness.
“Cynthia’s understanding of the challenges faced by patients with behavioral health, mental health, and substance use disorders has been critical to improving health outcomes,” said Dan McKinnon, CEO of EJFHC. “Her innovative leadership and dedication to patient care will have a lasting impact on our health center and community.”
EJFHC is proud to announce that Cynthia has been recognized by the Michigan Primary Care Association with the Distinguished Service Award for her remarkable contributions.
