Gary Blau rejoins SAMHSA

Abstract

Gary Blau, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist who will now serve as the senior advisor for children, youth and families at the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), officials announced Dec. 13, 2021. He rejoins SAMHSA after spending over 15 years as the chief of the Child, Adolescent and Family Branch, where he provided national leadership for child, adolescent and young adult mental health, and helped created “systems of care” across the United States. Prior to rejoining SAMHSA, Blau was the executive director of The Hackett Center for Mental Health, the first regional center of the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute. Blau received the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary's Award for Meritorious Service for his national leadership in children's mental health, and he was the first recipient of the Rock Star Award, presented by Youth MOVE National for “being a true champion for the youth movement and advocate for youth voice.” This award has now been named the Dr. Gary Blau Professional of the Year Award and is given annually to a mental health professional who has distinguished themselves as a voice for youth.