Pam was born and raised in Lancaster County and graduated from J.P. McCaskey High School. Before joining Behavioral Healthcare Corporation, Pam worked at St. Joseph Hospital (partial, inpatient, and outpatient services) and Lancaster Regional Medical Center (inpatient). She first worked with Eric Eshleman (BHC’s President & CEO) 16 years ago when he hired her at St. Joseph Hospital. She joined the team at BHC in 2014, coming “full circle.” Pam specializes in exceptional customer service. She is passionate about educating the public on mental illness and walks every year for DES Suicide Prevention (Detect Early Signs).

What would Pam tell a friend who was considering seeking mental health services?

“Mental health is essential to overall health. Therapy can give you the tools to keep mentally healthy, just as a physician gives you the tools to keep physically healthy.”

Skyler grew up locally in Berks County. After graduating from Georgian Court University with her Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences, Skyler went on to receive her Associate of Science in Nursing from Reading Hospital School of Health Sciences. Since 2022, she has been working in Lancaster County and joined our team in October 2024.

Mental health is what Skyler gravitated towards while in nursing school. She likes that mental health is constantly evolving, presents differently in every individual and that there is always something new to learn or challenge to overcome or research.

Her experiences at Philhaven Behavioral Health, Lancaster Behavioral Health, and the Lebanon VA Medical Center have deepened her understanding of the challenges faced by those seeking mental health services. Particularly impactful was her role as a nurse manager at Lancaster Behavioral Health, where she gained insight into the comprehensive journey of individuals—from their genetic backgrounds and initial diagnoses to identifying the appropriate medications and resources.

Skyler envisions a continued collaboration with BHC, recognizing the vital services it offers to a community where resources can be limited.

One thing Skyler might tell a friend who was considering seeing a therapist or seeking other mental health services:

“To remind them they are not alone. Treatment of any kind, whether it’s talking to a therapist/psychiatrist or finding the right medication, there is always hope. Mental health services can be tailored to what is best for you.”

Charlene grew up in the Hershey/Palmyra area in Pennsylvania. She earned a Master of Science in Nursing. In her 33 year career, Charlene’s work has included St. Joseph Hospital, an instructor at the St. Joseph Hospital School of Nursing, outpatient behavioral health and private practice. As a home health nurse Charlene also developed and implemented an in-home psychiatric program. Her areas of expertise include geriatrics and grief therapy. She is passionate about learning how the body and mind interface. Charlene identified David Nutter, MD, and patient teachers who encouraged insightful processes as making significant contributions to her career.

What would Charlene tell a friend who was considering seeking mental health services?

“A therapeutic connection can make all the difference in the world.”

Eric is originally from, and grew up in, Lancaster County. He grew up in a family that emphasized the importance of making a contribution to others and the community. Eric earned an AA in Business from Franklin & Marshall College before going on to earn a BA in Clinical Psychology and an MEd in Counseling Psychology and Education, both from Millersville University. In a career that spans 36 years, Eric has worked in inpatient mental health, acute mental health partial, intensive outpatient, outpatient, behavioral medicine and hospital-based emergency room evaluation services. He is passionate about psycho-education as one of the best interventions. Eric understands that an individual’s problems might be a symptom of a larger system issue. His areas of expertise include thought, mood and personality disorders. He credits his parents for instilling his beliefs and values; clinical mentors David Nutter, MD; Anthony Russo, MD; and Donald F. Hutchings, PhD; and administrative mentor William Bender, LCSW.

What would Eric tell a friend who was considering seeking mental health services?

“Psychotherapy is one of the very few opportunities to have a relationship that is entirely about you, a chance to learn about yourself in ways that may otherwise not be possible.”

Tom grew up in Chambersburg, PA and has been in Lancaster since 1998. Tom graduated from Eastern Mennonite University and has worked in the mental health field for since 2001, previously working in a mental health residential facility through Community Services Group. Tom enjoys the diversity of the mental health field and learning from the issues encountered. He joined Behavioral Healthcare Corporation in 2007.

What would Tom tell a friend who was considering seeking mental health services?

“It’s okay to seek those services. There is nothing to lose in seeing if it’s helpful.”

Cat was born in England and at the age of two was brought to Lancaster County by an American soldier. Raised in a unique blend of cultures, Cat was influenced by her Pennsylvania Dutch upbringing. As the oldest of five children, she quickly learned the value of responsibility, which inspired her career in social work. She earned her BA in Social Work at Millersville University and did her Senior Placement with New Choices/New Options. Cat has always believed that volunteering is a responsibility, second only to raising children. She has volunteered over the years with numerous nursing homes, Gate house for Men, Arch Street Center, YWCA’s Sexual Assault Prevention & Counseling Center and Hospice of Lancaster County. Cat is a 2024 graduate of Leadership Lancaster and is currently serving a a member of the Penn Township Zoning Hearing Board.

What is one thing she might tell a friend who was considering seeing a therapist of seeking other mental health services?

“Seek therapists who empower. Therapists should act like life ‘tool boxes’. They teach you how to use the ‘tools’ available to you. You then have the freedom to decide which tool is best for you. Empowerment is an extremely valuable gift.”

Tom grew up in Bushkill, PA and the Scotland School for Veteran’s Children. He attended East Stroudsburg and Mansfield State Colleges. Before joining Behavioral Healthcare Corporation in 2015, Tom worked at Polyclinic Medical Center, with Home Care Companies, and in the insurance industry. Tom appreciates making the most of every opportunity in life and likes working where he can make a difference in people’s lives.

What would Tom tell a friend who was considering seeking mental health services?

“Don’t be shy. Everyone has moments of need that experienced professionals are equipped to handle.”