SPRINGFIELD, Vt. – Health Care and Rehabilitation Services (HCRS), southeastern Vermont’s nonprofit community mental health agency, is proud to announce the appointment of Becky Gilbert as director of children, youth & families (CYF), and urgent care. A familiar and trusted leader within the organization, Gilbert brings more than 18 years of experience serving Vermont’s children, youth, and families through nearly every level of care HCRS provides.
In this role, Gilbert is responsible for the leadership, strategic direction, quality, and overall operations of HCRS’ CYF division and urgent care program. As a member of the senior leadership team, she oversees management staff, collaborates with community partners and state officials, and ensures that clinical and community needs are met with care that is creative, collaborative, and compassionate.
Gilbert’s journey at HCRS is a true “ground-up” story. Over nearly two decades, she has served in roles ranging from administrative generalist and case manager, to clinical services provider, school-based area manager, and urgent care leader. That breadth of experience shapes a leadership style rooted in firsthand understanding. She has worked directly with children and families navigating complex challenges, managed residential and crisis cases, and supported clinicians delivering care in the most critical moments.
At the center of her work is one steady focus: the needs of the client. Every process, policy, and partnership is viewed as a pathway to better life outcomes for the people HCRS serves. Gilbert is also deeply committed to supporting clinical staff, creating an environment where they feel empowered, consulted, and equipped to provide high-quality care. With a clinical background in cognitive behavioral therapy, she champions evidence-based practices and is a strong advocate for the Zero Suicide framework, helping move systems of care toward proactive safety and lifesaving intervention.
“Becky’s leadership reflects the very best of HCRS,” said George Karabakakis, CEO at the time of Gilbert’s hiring. “Her deep experience across our children, youth & families, and urgent care programs, combined with her unwavering focus on quality and collaboration, makes her exceptionally well positioned to lead these critical services forward. I have full confidence in her ability to strengthen care for children and families across our region.”
“I believe deeply in what HCRS stands for,” Gilbert shared. “In this role, I’m committed to leading with collaboration, clarity, and purpose – strengthening our programs, supporting our staff, and ensuring that children and families receive the care they deserve. The future of CYF and urgent care is about proactive, connected support, and I’m excited to help move that vision forward.”
For more information about HCRS, visit www.hcrs.org.