Matt grew up in Philadelphia’s suburbs, relocated to south York County for his senior year of high school before joining the USMC Reserves. Originally slated to enlist on 9/11/2001, he faced a delay due to the tragic events of that day. Serving two deployments in Iraq with the Marines in 2003 and 2004, Matt later transitioned to various security roles, including executive protection, nuclear security, and bas security in Kosovo. His final position was a year-long contract for a private company in Iraq.

Deciding to pivot toward a healing profession, Matt completed courses at Harrisburg Area Community College and earned his nursing degree from PA Collage of Health Sciences in 2015. After graduating nursing school, he spent 7 years in the acute inpatient psychiatric unit at Lebanon VA Medical Center, he then went to inpatient mental health at the Retreat of Lancaster County, focusing significantly on drug and alcohol detoxification and rehabilitation.

Equipped with extensive experience in acute inpatient treatment, Matt eagerly anticipates transitioning to a community-based role with BHC. He looks forward to leveraging his expertise to foster resilience and overall recovery in his clients.

In 10 years, Matt envisions backpacking across Europe with his daughter, ticking off a few items from his bucket list.

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

“When you have a leaking roof, I recommend contacting a professional roofer. When your car breaks down, I recommend contacting a professional mechanic. A lot of things in life require professional help and your mental health is one of them.”

Doreen grew up in South Philadelphia and has been in the Lancaster area for over 30 years. She received her Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) at HACC and then her BSN from Eastern Mennonite University before obtaining a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) from Drexel University.

Prior to her career in nursing, Doreen worked as legal secretary/paralegal for over 28 years. Her lifelong curiosity about human behavior and her passion regarding human behavior modification led her to change careers. Doreen enjoys assisting people to identify and reach their life goals. Before joining our team in 2023, Doreen worked as an inpatient Psychiatric Nurse for 9 years in Lancaster PA, and as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for over 5 years in  Holyoke, MA, San Diego, Santa Barbara and Greenville, CA.

Doreen’s residency at Ralph H Johnson Veterans Hospital in Charleston, S.C. was one of her most significant experiences.

In 10 years, Doreen hopes to be writing mental health cookbooks.

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

“Just do it!”

Skyler Eiceman, RN

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.”

Kim has lived in South Central PA all of her life, and in the Harrisburg area for the last 13 years. Kim earned a Bachelor of Science from Juniata College, and completed an Associate Degree and RN in Nursing at Harrisburg Area Community College. Her experience comes from medical / surgical units and inpatient mental health. She has been part of Behavioral Healthcare Corporation since 2006. Kim encourages her clients to be active because she understands the positive effect it has on overall health and well-being.

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

Phil grew up on a dairy farm in Lancaster, PA. He earned an RN/BSN at Eastern Mennonite University in VA. He worked as a nurse in Washington, DC, for five years before moving back to Lancaster. When he was in Washington he worked with the homeless population and for a year-and-a-half in pediatrics. Phil also worked for 10 years in the inpatient mental health field and for five years in mobile mental health. Phil joined Behavioral Healthcare Corporation in 2010. His particular area of expertise is advocating for the clients he works with.

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

“Be open.”

Margaret (“Maggie”) grew up in New Brunswick, New Jersey and has lived in Lancaster for 25 years. She earned an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science/Nursing Education from Middlesex County College. Before joining BHC Maggie worked in inpatient mental health units (with adults and adolescents), home nursing service for physically disabled children and adults, and geriatric long-term care. She became part of the Behavioral Healthcare Corporation team in 2005. Maggie is passionate about working with and advocating for children and teens with learning difficulties, and young expectant mothers.

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

“Seeking professional help can help keep you mentally healthy.”

Karen was raised in Somalia and Kenya, East Africa, before settling in Lancaster over 35 years ago. She completed her education at the Rift Valley Academy in Kijabe, Kenya, and later earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from EMU. She then went on to obtain her PA School Nurse Certification from Millerville University.

Before becoming part of our team in January 2024, Karen dedicated her skills to acute care facilities like Lancaster Behavioral Health Hospital and Philhaven, Mt. Gretna. In her roles, she served as a nurse educator, consultant, and primary nurse clinician, specializing in residents with intellectual disabilities and mental health diagnoses.

Karen’s passion lies in empowering individuals on their mental health journeys. Through a blend of education, advocacy, and genuine compassion, she aims to guide them from surviving to thriving. She finds immense fulfillment in accompanying clients throughout their transformative paths.

Looking ahead to the next ten years, Karen envisions herself as a certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (MHCRNP). Her aspirations include working with either children or adults in outpatient integrated settings, where she can continue making meaningful impacts in mental health care.

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

“Encourage them to do this. Ask what is the goal, or reason for considering this. Listen as they navigate finding a therapist who is available, in network, and good fit for them.”

Joanne has lived in Lancaster most of her life. She earned an RN from St. Joseph Hospital, and completed a BSN at Eastern Mennonite University. She worked as a fulltime nurse with BHC for 13 years before transitioning into a consultant role. Joanne’s experience includes inpatient mental health, home health, hospital-based medical/surgical nursing and mobile psychiatric nursing. She is most passionate about and has expertise in an individual’s physical health’s impact on mental health. Being part of a client’s recovery and having the opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments is very satisfying to her.

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

“Everyone experiences struggles/challenges during their lifetime. The opportunity to receive support from a professional who can maintain objectivity can be invaluable.”