We are pleased to share two Peace River Center (PRC) employees were recently recognized for their superior contributions to the organization and mental health field. Cinthia “Rena” Creteur, a Care Coordinator at PRC, received the organization’s Direct Service Provider of the Year award. She also received the Clinician of the Year Award (Adults) award at the Florida Behavioral Health Association Annual Conference. Rena was nominated by her supervisor, James (Jim) King, LMHC for her exceptional client service working with the High Need High Utilizer Adult population.

“Rena’s clients are often dealing with severe and persistent mental illness, and can be considered harder to engage. Her persistent but empathetic manner in working with clients through their resistance, yields excellent results. She goes the extra mile for every client, every day, every minute and loves being able to make a difference because, as she shares, it changes her for the better every day,” said Jim.

Passionate about her clients and the work she does, but steadfast in her humbleness, Rena said, “That award is not for me—it’s my clients, my team, my supervisor, the receptionist—everyone has played a crucial role. It’s a team effort.”

Morgan Whitaker-Smith, Community Action Treatment (CAT) Team Manager received Peace River Center’s Supervisor of the Year award.

Morgan recently led the CAT team through expansion of services in response to unmet community need as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. One of her staff members said, “Morgan has taken on the role with the commitment and enthusiasm we all need…she is not only empathetic towards team members when dealing with tough cases, but provides input and tactics that push each team member in reaching their full potential.”

“Morgan’s sharp clinical knowledge and organizational skills brought a lot to the table in the leadership roles she has filled at PRC. Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence. Morgan is an excellent example of that,” said Donna Rininger LMHC, MCAP, Director of Specialty Services, who nominated Morgan. Donna also noted Morgan’s superior service to the community as a Mental Health First Aid Trainer, public speaker, and volunteer.