Dr. Miriam Delphin-Rittmon Becomes New SAMHSA Administrator
On July 14, 2021, Dr. Miriam Delphin-Rittmon, Ph.D., became the new Administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Wearing dual hats, the respected professional also serves as the Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Abuse. Indeed, Dr. Miriam Delphin-Rittmon will be a remarkable asset in both positions.
Dr. Delphin-Ritmmon was sworn into her new post by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra. Tarzana Treatment Centers, Inc. (TTC) celebrates this intelligent choice because of her extensive background in providing culturally responsive, integrated treatment services. As a nonprofit provider of integrated treatment services, TTC appreciates an Assistant Secretary and SAMHSA administrator with impressive credentials.
The Background of Dr. Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon
Before coming to Washington, Dr. Miriam Delphin-Rittmon is on the faculty of Yale University. As an Adjunct Associate Professor, she serves as the Director of Cultural Competence and Research Consultation with the Yale University Program for Recovery and Community Health. A valued faculty member at the Ivy League university for over two decades, Dr. Delphin-Rittmon’s choice to focus on public service is a major decision.
While at Yale, Dr. Miriam Delphin-Rittmon also serves for six years as Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. During this period, she promotes recovery-oriented, integrated programs. Moreover, she champions culturally responsive services. Her goal is to institute recovery systems that promote dignity, respect, and community inclusion.
Secretary Becerra Marks the New Recovery Appointment
During his announcement of the appointment of Dr. Miriam Delphin-Rittmon, HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra explains how “Miriam’s experience in creating and administering mental health, substance use and prevention services and systems will serve the nation well as we work to tackle the impact of the pandemic on behavioral health… I am confident she will lead with a sense of both urgency and compassion to ensure our nation is at the forefront of providing accessible and evidence-based treatment for people working to overcome mental and substance use disorders.”
Given her influence and insight, TTC believes that Dr. Miriam Delphin-Rittmon will help HHS realize the Biden-Harris administration’s healthcare goals. Indeed, she is a person of deep integrity. Thus, she brings a balanced combination of excellence and empathy to her work.