Cape Cod, MA – June 2025 – Behavioral Health Innovators (BHI), a Massachusetts nonprofit dedicated to addressing the gaps in support for youth and young adults struggling with substance use disorder and mental health challenges, is proud to announce the appointment of Stephanie Gilrein as the new Executive Director. Gilrein will be stepping into this role following the remarkable 10-year leadership of Co-Founder and CEO, Stephanie J. Briody, Esq.
As BHI celebrates its 10th anniversary, the organization is poised for continued growth and impact. Under Briody’s leadership, BHI has built a continuum of innovative programs that focus on preventing substance use disorder, supporting sustained recovery, and addressing mental health challenges faced by Cape Cod’s youth and young adults. Her legacy includes the successful launch of key initiatives such as the Alternative Peer Group (APG) program and the Cape Cod Positive Alternatives for Student Support (PASS) program, both of which provide critical resources and support to young people.
Stephanie Briody, who has been at the forefront of BHI since its inception, has worked tirelessly to engage the community and convene trusted partners, helping to reverse the rising tide of overdose deaths and addiction that has devastated countless families across Cape Cod. With her decade of service, Briody leaves behind a strong foundation and a legacy of advocacy, compassion, and visionary leadership.
Incoming Executive Director, Stephanie Gilrein, brings a wealth of experience in community engagement and wellness and has been with BHI for three years. A certified and registered yoga instructor with deep ties to the Cape Cod community, Gilrein has a passion for fostering connection and holistic support. Currently overseeing the PASS program, which focuses on middle and high school students, she has been instrumental in creating safe, supportive spaces for youth to navigate their mental health challenges.
“I am honored to step into this role and continue the critical work that Stephanie Briody has championed,” said Gilrein. “BHI has changed countless lives through its innovative programs, and I look forward to building on that legacy by further strengthening our community’s ability to address substance use and mental health challenges in young people.”
As BHI enters its next decade, Gilrein’s leadership will focus on expanding the organization’s reach, deepening its community partnerships, and ensuring that young people have access to the support they need to thrive.
About Behavioral Health Innovators (BHI):
BHI is a nonprofit organization providing a continuum of programs designed to address the gap in services for Cape Cod’s youth and young adults living with substance use disorder and related mental health conditions. BHI’s mission is to empower young people to reach their full potential by offering programs that focus on prevention, support, and sustained recovery.
Q&A with Stephanie Gilrein, Incoming Executive Director of Behavioral Health Innovators
You’ve been deeply involved with BHI through your leadership of the PASS program. What has this journey meant to you?
Working alongside Stephanie Briody to tailor the PASS model to Cape Cod and Nantucket teens has been incredibly meaningful. We’ve adapted and grown the program to meet our community’s unique needs — from integrating stronger clinical support to launching Middle School PASS this fall. Looking back on how far we’ve come makes me proud, and I’m excited about the future of both PASS and APG.
What are you most proud of from your time working with students and families?
Seeing students let their guard down, connect, and have fun is the greatest reward. Their feedback speaks volumes:
“PASS gave me a new outlook on my life and my future… I went in a bad place and came out feeling good for the first time in a while.”
“This is such a good alternative to suspension — you feel welcome and free to express yourself.”
That kind of transformation is why we do what we do.
What does stepping into the Executive Director role mean to you?
It’s an honor. I’m grateful for the trust and ready to lead with heart, structure, and vision. Our youth need us more than ever, and I’m committed to continuing BHI’s mission to meet them where they are with care, consistency, and innovation.
As BHI celebrates 10 years, how do you see the next chapter unfolding?
We’ll keep growing with purpose. That means continuing to evolve our programs, expanding our reach, and building on the foundation Stephanie B. created — one rooted in innovation, compassion, and collaboration.
What aspects of Stephanie Briody’s legacy do you hope to carry forward?
Stephanie built BHI from the ground up with clarity, heart, and integrity. I want to uphold that same strength and support for our team, board, and community as we scale.
What are your key priorities in year one as Executive Director?
- Strengthening BHI’s fundraising efforts and building awareness of our services through events like REAL TALK.
- Deepening partnerships with Cape and Nantucket schools and building meaningful connections with the families and students associated.
- Hosting open houses for PASS and APG so families and stakeholders can see our work firsthand.