Central Clinic names new head of Central Connection

Central Clinic Behavioral Health named Patricia Brown as its new division director of Central Connection, a move the nonprofit says will strengthen systemwide access to behavioral health care across Greater Cincinnati.

Central Connection provides a standardized entry to care, with staff available around the clock to connect people to services. Its clinicians conduct assessments, coordinate referrals, offer transitional case management and medication management, and assist with housing, Medicaid and Social Security applications – work that Brown will now oversee.

In the role, she’ll guide strategic direction, support program development and supervise key staff. 

Kimberly Mages, CCBH’s president and CEO, said Brown’s arrival positions the agency to continue expanding that reach and ensure families receive timely, high-quality support. The century-old organization she leads provides mental health, addiction and forensic services at nine locations. It served 14,698 clients last fiscal year, and Central Connection alone helped more than 1,700 people access care through its role as the front door to Hamilton County’s public behavioral health system.

“Pat brings a rare combination of strategic vision, operational expertise and a deep commitment to compassionate care,” Mages added.

Four decades of leadership

Brown brings nearly 35 years of experience across hospital systems, community-based organizations and behavioral health programs. Brown most recently served as CEO of Urban Minority Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Outreach Programs of Cincinnati, where she led a comprehensive strategic plan, improved operations, expanded access to care and built strong community partnerships, according to CCBH. Her background also includes leadership roles at The Crossroads Center, The Christ Hospital, Hospice of Cincinnati/TriHealth and the Lindner Center of HOPE.

Brown holds an MBA, a Master of Science in Social Administration, and professional licensure as an independent social worker supervisor and a chemical dependency counselor clinical supervisor.

“Her leadership will enhance the quality and reach of the services we provide, ensuring children, adults and families across Hamilton County receive the support they need,” Mages said of Brown.

Central Clinic Behavioral Health