Polly Gauttier
Biddeford ,ME
Summary
Strategic behavioral health workforce leader with extensive experience designing, implementing, and scaling workforce models across large healthcare systems. Adept at translating frontline operational realities into sustainable system-level solutions that strengthen workforce capacity, reduce administrative burden, and improve care delivery. Brings deep expertise in peer support, recovery services, team-based care, and workforce pipeline development, with a proven ability to advise senior leaders, state agencies, and community partners. Skilled in technical assistance, adult learning, multi-stakeholder facilitation, and change management. Recognized for innovative thinking, human-centered design, and the ability to connect policy, operations, and lived experience to drive meaningful transformation.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Peer Services
Maine Health Behavioral Health
Statewide, ME
01.2023 - Current
- Lead system-wide workforce strategy, development, and implementation for peer support and recovery services across Maine Health Behavioral Health and integrated care footprint.
- Workforce Strategy & System Design
- Designed and implemented multi-site workforce models supporting peer supporters and recovery coaches across emergency departments, outpatient behavioral health, primary care, and community settings.
- Developed system-wide operational changes using federal CCBHC grant guidelines, aligning peer workforce structures, workflows, and service delivery models with national standards for integrated, team-based care.
- Identified system-level workforce gaps and developed scalable solutions aligned with CCBHC principles, integrated care models, and Maine Health Behavioral Health strategy.
- Developed new staffing structures, supervision models, and role optimization strategies to strengthen workforce sustainability and reduce administrative burden.
- Training, Technical Assistance & Capacity Building
- Created and delivered training for supervisors, interdisciplinary teams, and peer staff on role clarity, workforce readiness, and integrated team-based care.
- Developed tools, workflows, and implementation resources to support consistent practice across 10+ service lines.
- Provided consultation to internal leaders and external partners on peer workforce development, licensure pathways, and training pipelines.
- Leadership & Operations
- Recruited, trained, supervised, and mentored a statewide workforce of 55 Peer Support Specialists and Recovery Coaches.
- Managed multimillion-dollar state-funded programs (ED Recovery, Youth Peer Network, Peer Centers), ensuring compliance, reporting, and performance outcomes.
- Built and strengthened partnerships with state agencies, community organizations, and healthcare leaders to align workforce initiatives with regulatory and funding environments.
- Innovation & Impact
- Recognized by national experts for innovative workforce concepts and system redesign strategies.
- Advanced integration of lived experience roles across the care continuum, improving access, engagement, and continuity of care.
- Center Manager → Director of Peer Services (Promoted)
Center Manager
Maine Health Behavioral Health
York County, Maine
04.2019 - 01.2023
- Managed daily operations of peer support centers and recovery programs, including staffing, training, performance management, and program development.
- Developed new workflows, staffing models, and service delivery approaches that improved efficiency and expanded reach.
- Strengthened partnerships with state agencies and community providers to support coordinated workforce and service expansion.
President / Consultant
Folio Studio
Portland, ME
03.2011 - 04.2019
- Provided strategic consulting on operations, workforce structure, and business development for small and mid-sized organizations.
- Designed and implemented operational procedures that increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved organizational performance.
- Led training, coaching, and change management efforts for client teams.
Education
Health And Human Services
University of Maine At Augusta
Saco, MEUniversity of New Hampshire
Skills
- Behavioral Health Workforce Development
- CCBHC Implementation & Workforce Models
- Peer & Family Support Integration
- Workforce Pipeline & Training Pathways
- Technical Assistance & Adult Learning
- Systems Redesign & Change Management
- State-Level Collaboration & Regulatory Alignment
- Strategic Planning & Program Development
- Grant Management & Compliance
- Team-Based Care Optimization
- Multi-Stakeholder Facilitation
- Data-Driven Decision Making
Timeline
Director of Peer Services
Maine Health Behavioral Health
01.2023 - Current
Center Manager
Maine Health Behavioral Health
04.2019 - 01.2023
President / Consultant
Folio Studio
03.2011 - 04.2019
Health And Human Services
University of Maine At Augusta
University of New Hampshire