Navigating Behavioral Health with SEFBHN's Ann M. Berner

In this episode of The Hanley Effect, hosts Dr. Rachel Docekal and Dr. John Dyben sit down with one of Florida’s most influential behavioral health leaders, Ann M. Berner, CEO and President of Southeast Florida Behavioral Health Network (SEFBHN).

With over three decades of service to the community, Ann shares her remarkable journey. from working with the Department of Children and Families to helping pioneer Florida’s Managing Entity model. Today, she oversees $56 million in funding for substance use and mental health services across five counties: Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, Palm Beach, and St. Lucie.

In this episode:

• The evolution of Florida’s behavioral health system and the power of local control
• How SEFBHN provides care for 27,000+ individuals annually
• The crucial role of peer support specialists in inspiring hope
• What “validation” means when it comes to funding and accountability
• Ann’s leadership statewide and her deep commitment to community collaboration
• Why systems thinking, evidence-based care, and empathy are key to healing

With humility and passion, Ann reminds us that the most impactful leaders often work behind the scenes and that hope is never out of reach.

To learn more about Southeast Florida Behavioral Health Network visit: https://sefbhn.org/

To learn more about Hanley Foundation visit: https://hanleyfoundation.org/