John Garrity, PhD, Executive Director to Retire

The Mental Health & Recovery Board of Portage County announced that Executive Director John Garrity, Ph.D., will retire in September 2026 after eight years of dedicated leadership.

Since joining the Board in 2018, Dr. Garrity has provided strategic direction for the planning, funding, and oversight of Portage County's behavioral health system, helping ensure residents have access to high-quality mental health and addiction treatment services.

Known for his compassionate, collaborative leadership style, Dr. Garrity championed initiatives that strengthened Portage County's recovery-oriented system of care. Under his leadership, the county expanded access to medication-assisted treatment, peer recovery support, and the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) program. He also secured significant state and federal funding, helped increase local levy support for behavioral health services, and fostered strong partnerships among healthcare providers, law enforcement, the criminal justice system, and community organizations.

One of Dr. Garrity's most significant accomplishments has been leading the development of the Portage Crisis Center in Ravenna in partnership with Coleman Health Services. The center will provide around-the-clock access to crisis stabilization, observation, and behavioral health services, transforming the way residents receive emergency mental health care.

"Dr. Garrity has guided us through remarkable growth and steady leadership,” stated Board Chair Willam Nome. “We are grateful for his service and wish him the very best in his retirement."

Reflecting on his career, Dr. Garrity said, “Serving as the Executive Director of this incredible organization has been a great privilege.  I have had the honor of working with absolutely the best team of fellow employees I have ever known.”

Prior to joining the Mental Health & Recovery Board of Portage County, Dr. Garrity held leadership positions with the Alcohol, Drug Addiction & Mental Health Services Board of Cuyahoga County, the Nord Center, and Firelands Regional Health Center.

Dr. Garrity's leadership leaves a lasting legacy of partnership, innovation, and expanded access to behavioral health services throughout Portage County.