Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Clinical Experiences
Additional Information
Research and Dissertation Experience
Abstracts and Presentations
Languages
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Madeline Aviles-Hernandez

Shrewsbury,MA

Summary

Results-driven executive with over 15 years of progressive management and operations experience. Well-versed in assessing risk, developing solutions, and implementing positive changes to achieve sustainability, growth, building successful teams, and managing profitable operations.

Overview

12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Principal/CEO

Persona Solutions, LLC
04.2023 - Current
  • Created overall vision, strategic trajectory, and development initiatives of newly created consulting firm aimed to provide talent management and organizational development strategies to companies in healthcare and human services.
  • Developed high-quality business strategies and plans that align with both short-term and long-term objectives.
  • Established foundational processes for business operations.
  • Fostered strong relationships with industry partners to expand business opportunities.

CEO

The Price Center
03.2022 - 04.2023
  • Implemented strong hiring and training techniques to promote team cohesiveness and streamline overall workflow.
  • Directed technological improvements, reducing waste and business bottlenecks.
  • Achieved company growth by implementing strategic plans and streamlining operations.
  • Fostered strong relationships with industry partners to expand business opportunities.
  • Reviewed individual department performance and worked with leadership to improve processes, procedures, and practices.
  • Devised and presented business plans and forecasts to board of directors.
  • Collaborated with legal, accounting and other professional teams to review and maintain compliance with regulations.
  • Led recruitment and development of strategic alliances to maximize utilization of existing talent and capabilities.
  • Coached and guided senior managers to improve employee job satisfaction and achieve higher performance levels.
  • Managed financial, operational and human resources to optimize business performance.
  • Enhanced brand reputation with effective marketing campaigns and public relations efforts.
  • Identified new revenue generation opportunities to maximize bottom-line profitability.

COO

The Price Center
08.2021 - 03.2022
  • Managed financial, operational and human resources to optimize business performance.
  • Championed change management initiatives for smoother organizational transitions during periods of growth or restructuring.
  • Identified and pursued business development opportunities to grow organization and increase revenue.
  • Directed technological improvements, reducing waste and business bottlenecks.
  • Represented organization at external meetings and events to promote and build relationships with key stakeholders.
  • Redesigned organizational structure for optimized reporting lines and resource allocation.
  • Collaborated with legal, accounting and other professional teams to review and maintain compliance with regulations.
  • Identified and mitigated operational risks to minimize potential negative impacts on organization.
  • Partnered with HR on employee engagement initiatives that enhanced workplace morale while reducing turnover rates.
  • Navigated complex regulatory environments to ensure compliance across all aspects of operations.
  • Led recruitment and development of strategic alliances to maximize utilization of existing talent and capabilities.
  • Influenced company culture by promoting core values like integrity, accountability, innovation, teamwork, and excellence throughout daily operations.

Vice President Behavioral Health & Recovery Svcs.

Gandara Center
08.2020 - 08.2021
  • Provided comprehensive oversight in the management, operations, and service provision for Behavioral Health, Adult SUD Residential, and Peer Support Recovery Services.
  • Worked directly with Senior and Program Directors to ensure the effective implementation of programs and services, maintaining high standards of quality and compliance.
  • Served as a key advisor to the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and Chief Operating Officer, providing insights on agency-wide integration and collaboration strategies.
  • Played a crucial role in the agency's senior leadership team, contributing to strategic decision-making and offering expertise on division-specific staffing, programmatic, and fiscal matters.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in navigating complex organizational structures, fostering teamwork, and aligning initiatives with overarching goals.
  • Implemented strategic initiatives to enhance collaboration between departments, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.
  • Successfully addressed division-specific challenges, implementing solutions that optimized program outcomes and financial performance.

Division Director Outpatient & Recovery Svcs.

Gandara Center
01.2018 - 08.2020
  • Provided advisory support to the President & CEO and Chief Operating Officer on matters of agency-wide integration, collaboration, and division-specific staffing, programmatic, and fiscal issues.
  • Oversight of diverse division encompassing multiple sites and programs, with a team of over 110 staff members and a substantial annual budget exceeding $7 million.
  • Supervised and led a dedicated team, including the Outpatient Director of Quality Assurance and Training, Medical Director, Integration Program Manager, Clinic Directors, OP Clinical Director, Director of Peer Recovery Support Centers, and Director of Diversionary and Recovery Services.
  • Managed a division with extensive scope, comprising 5 Peer Recovery Support Centers statewide and 3 Outpatient Behavioral Health Clinics offering a spectrum of services, including behavioral health therapy, MAT psychiatric and psychological services, outreach, community support, psycho-educational programs, and specialized services for substance use and gambling addiction, as well as criminal justice services.
  • Spearheaded financial performance improvements through strategic development, monitoring, and implementation of initiatives to optimize budgetary allocations.
  • Acted as the primary representative of the agency in engagements with community stakeholders, referral agencies, and regulatory authorities, including the Department of Public Health, Bureau of Substance Abuse Services, and various insurance providers.
  • Explored and implemented outreach expansion, colocation, and integration opportunities to enhance consumer service, expand access, and maximize utilization of services and programs.
  • Successfully supervised and guided a multidisciplinary team to achieve organizational goals.
  • Established and maintained effective collaborations with licensing and regulatory bodies, fostering positive relationships and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
  • Implemented strategic initiatives leading to increased access and utility of services, resulting in improved consumer satisfaction.

Division Director Outpatient Services

Gandara Center
06.2016 - 01.2018
  • Spearheaded the development and implementation of the annual budget in collaboration with the CFO, Human Resources Director, and Executive Director.
  • Formulated and executed an agency-wide strategic initiative to enhance the division's internal presence and community engagement through key partnerships, cross-collaboration, outreach efforts, and the introduction of co-located services.
  • Successfully represented the agency in interactions with community stakeholders, referral agencies, and licensing/regulatory authorities, including negotiations with payers such as insurances, the Department of Public Health, and the Bureau of Substance Abuse Services.

Director Outpatient Clinics

Gandara Center
10.2015 - 06.2016
  • Managed a team of over 50 staff members and an annual budget exceeding $4 million.
  • Directed the provision of a diverse range of services, including behavioral health therapy, MAT psychiatric services, psychological support, outreach programs, community support initiatives, psycho-educational services, and specialized programs addressing substance use and gambling addiction, along with criminal justice services.
  • Developed and executed the yearly budget in collaboration with the CFO, Human Resources Director, and Executive Director.
  • Effectively represented the agency in engagements with community stakeholders, referral agencies, and licensing/regulatory authorities, including negotiations with payers such as insurances, the Department of Public Health, and the Bureau of Substance Abuse Services.

Community Support Program Supervisor

Gandara Center
07.2012 - 10.2015
  • Spearheaded the development and implementation of operational strategies to optimize program management, including financial metrics, quality assurance measures, and marketing initiatives.
  • Ensured program adherence to budgetary constraints and productivity targets, effectively managing resources to meet organizational objectives.
  • Played a pivotal role in the hiring and supervision of CSP workers, fostering a collaborative work environment and facilitating inter-organizational relationships as directed by the Division Director.
  • Represented the program at community meetings and engagements with Managed Care Entities and other key stakeholders, fostering productive relationships and advocating for program needs.
  • Provided comprehensive training, supervision, and support to CSP workers, ensuring their professional development and alignment with program objectives.
  • Maintained oversight of clinical documentation, client charts, waiting lists, and case assignments, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and organizational protocols.
  • Acted as a reliable back-up for the Division Director during periods of absence, assuming leadership responsibilities and maintaining operational continuity.

Outreach Coordinator/Administrative Supervisor

Gandara Center
07.2012 - 10.2015
  • Proactively established and nurtured relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, fostering collaboration and synergies that enhance the delivery of behavioral health services.
  • Spearheaded the identification and development of outreach locations, strategically positioning services for optimal impact and accessibility within the community.
  • Served as a vital liaison to Primary Care clinics, area hospitals, and various community agencies, facilitating effective communication and collaboration between these entities and the Gandara Center.
  • Fostered coordination and collaboration among internal programs within the organization while actively engaging with external programs to streamline service provision and enhance overall program effectiveness.
  • Provided comprehensive administrative supervision to licensed and unlicensed clinicians, fostering a supportive and productive work environment conducive to professional growth and development.
  • Maintained oversight of clinical documentation, client charts, and case assignments, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance with organizational standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Assisted in the oversight of overall site clinical billing operations, including managing insurance authorizations and reviewing authorization error reports, to facilitate timely and accurate billing processes.
  • Demonstrated versatility by serving as a dependable back-up for the Division Director during periods of absence, assuming leadership responsibilities and maintaining operational continuity.

Education

Psy.D. - Clinical Psychology

Ponce Health Sciences University
Ponce, PR
2009

Bachelor of Arts - Psychology

University of Puerto Rico - Mayaguez
Mayaguez, PR
2001

Skills

  • Strategic Planning
  • Operations Management
  • Staff Leadership and Development
  • Programmatic Innovation
  • Fiscal Management
  • Collaboration and Integration
  • Regulatory Compliance
  • Stakeholder Engagement
  • Service Utilization Optimization
  • Quality Improvement
  • Revenue Growth
  • Public and Community Relations

Clinical Experiences

Outpatient Clinician 

Gandara Center, Springfield, MA
(2010-2016)

  • Conducting individual, group, and family therapy sessions tailored to the unique needs of the underserved Hispanic population.
  • Specializing in working with children dealing with behavioral and trauma-related issues, adapting interventions for both clinic and school environments.
  • Implementation of Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques to address trauma-related challenges and promote emotional well-being.

Psychotherapist

Pennsylvania Counseling Services, Lancaster, PA
(2006-2007)

  • Conducting psychological assessments and therapeutic interventions for clients dealing with Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol concerns.
  • Offering consultation and supervision with a focus on maintaining sensitivity to diversity issues and upholding professional ethics.
  • Serving as a Mentor for Hispanic therapists, providing guidance on cultural competency and fostering professional growth.

Doctoral Internship

Pennsylvania Counseling Services, Lancaster, PA
(2005-2006)

  • Applied diverse therapeutic modalities to address family dynamics, emphasizing a holistic approach to promote overall family well-being.
  • Successfully implemented psychological assessments to inform and guide intervention strategies.
  • Collaborated with families to strengthen their coping mechanisms and functional capacities within the community.

Clinical Training

Damas Hospital, Ponce, Puerto Rico
(2003-2004)

  • Conducted individual interventions in an inpatient setting, addressing the diverse needs of patients with medical and non-psychiatric diagnoses.
  • Designed and delivered workshops for nursing personnel, contributing to the ongoing professional development within the hospital.
  • Assisted in administrative tasks related to the Psychology Program, gaining valuable insights into program management and coordination.

Therapist

Centro de Ayuda Psicológica y Servicios Integrales (CAPSI), Ponce School of Medicine, Ponce, Puerto Rico

(2003-2004)

  • Conducted treatment planning, crisis intervention, and individual, group, and family therapy.
  • Engaged in community outreach with individuals affected by Domestic Violence.

Clinical Training

Centro de Ayuda Psicológica y Servicios Integrales (CAPSI), Ponce School of Medicine, Ponce, Puerto Rico

(2003)

  • Supervised practice as a trainee psychologist, focusing on treatment planning, crisis intervention, and individual, group, and family psychotherapy for domestic violence victims.

Clinical Training

Sistema San Juan Capestrano, Mayagüez, P.R.

(2002-2003)

  • Supervised practice as a trainee psychologist in a Partial Hospitalization Program.
  • Conducted treatment planning, crisis intervention, and group psychotherapy for patients with severe psychiatric diagnoses.

Clinical Training

Juan Suárez Pelegrina High School, Aguadilla, P.R.

(2001)

  • Supervised practice as a trainee psychologist, conducting individual interventions with students.
  • Consulted with teachers to assess student-related problems and needs.
  • Provided workshops for both students and teachers.

Stress Prevention Technician

University of P.R. –Mayagüez, Mayagüez, P.R.

(2000)

  • Conducted individual interventions with students in a stress prevention program at the University Medical Health Center.
  • Trained participants in relaxation strategies, breathing exercises, and stress reduction techniques.

Additional Information

Guest Professor in Psychology

Social Sciences Department, University of Puerto Rico-Bayamon Campus, Bayamon, P.R.
(2008)

  • Conducted engaging lectures for undergraduate students in Psychology, covering fundamental principles of behavior, memory, and human development.

Graduate Teaching Assistant

Clinical Psychology Program, Ponce School of Medicine, Ponce, P.R.
(2004-2005)

  • Facilitated practical examinations and role plays for first-year students, emphasizing the development of a comprehensive understanding of clinical interview components and therapeutic interventions.

Instructor

Centro de Ayuda Psicológica y Servicios Integrales (CAPSI), Ponce School of Medicine, Ponce, Puerto Rico
(2004-2005)

  • Designed and delivered workshops for center personnel on topics such as Ethics, Intervention with Domestic Violence victims, and Strategies of Group Therapy.

Research and Dissertation Experience

Doctoral Dissertation 

Ponce School of Medicine, Ponce, P.R.

(2009)

  • Explored the presence and potential correlations between symptoms of depression, disease-related emotional distress, and self-care in Puerto Ricans diagnosed with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes.

Research Technician 

Ponce School of Medicine, Ponce, P.R.

(2004-2005)

  • Contributed to a five-year NIH-funded research project on felt stigma, abuse, and treatment adherence in individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
  • Recruited participants from various centers providing services for patients with HIV.
  • Developed, administered, and managed structured interviews and questionnaires.
  • Conducted quantitative and qualitative data analysis.
  • Assisted in creating posters, professional presentations for international conferences, and proposals on related areas.

Undergraduate Research 

University of P.R., Mayagüez Campus, Mayagüez, P.R.

(2001)

  • Designed and executed research to assess the needs of intellectually-gifted children and explored college students' perceptions regarding their emotional and intellectual needs.

Abstracts and Presentations

Jiménez, J., Puig, M., Avilés, M. Abuse, Felt-stigma and Treatment Adherence in PLWHA: Preliminary Findings of Focus Groups on Felt Stigma.

          Presented at the Annual Convention of the APPR, on November 2004; and at the Ninth Research Centers in Minority Institutions (RCMI)     

          International Symposium on Health Disparities.

Languages

Spanish
Native or Bilingual
English
Native or Bilingual

Certification

  • Certified Executive Coach
  • LMFT and LMHC License Eligible
  • Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (CADC)
  • Problem Gambling Certified Practitioner
  • Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Certified Practitioner
  • Professional Trainer and Educator in: Trauma Informed Practices and Diversity-Equity-Inclusion.


Timeline

Principal/CEO

Persona Solutions, LLC
04.2023 - Current

CEO

The Price Center
03.2022 - 04.2023

COO

The Price Center
08.2021 - 03.2022

Vice President Behavioral Health & Recovery Svcs.

Gandara Center
08.2020 - 08.2021

Division Director Outpatient & Recovery Svcs.

Gandara Center
01.2018 - 08.2020

Division Director Outpatient Services

Gandara Center
06.2016 - 01.2018

Director Outpatient Clinics

Gandara Center
10.2015 - 06.2016

Community Support Program Supervisor

Gandara Center
07.2012 - 10.2015

Outreach Coordinator/Administrative Supervisor

Gandara Center
07.2012 - 10.2015

Psy.D. - Clinical Psychology

Ponce Health Sciences University

Bachelor of Arts - Psychology

University of Puerto Rico - Mayaguez
Madeline Aviles-Hernandez