Becker’s Healthcare Podcast Yerachmiel (Richard) Stern, L.C.S.W., Executive Director of Pesach Tikvah
Nov 2, 2025
Yerachmiel (Richard) Stern, L.C.S.W., is the Executive Director of Pesach Tikvah, where he has dedicated 18 years to enhancing community mental health. In this conversation, he shares insights on the shift towards holistic care for families and discusses alarming trends like rising hopelessness and the importance of preventative measures. Richard also sheds light on the complexities of mental health funding, the vital role of experience in care providers, and offers valuable leadership advice centered on building meaningful relationships.
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From Intern To CEO
- Yerachmiel Stern described joining Pesach Tikvah as a year-one social work intern and rising through roles over 18 years.
- He became CEO after directing clinic expansion and building operational systems and morale.
Holistic Mental Health Focus
- Stern says mental health is shifting toward a holistic model that treats families and systems, not just individuals.
- He emphasizes classic psychotherapy combined with targeted modalities for parents, couples, groups, and children.
Prevention Prevents Severe Decline
- Stern observes rising hopelessness driving more suicidal ideation and severe presentations when prevention is missed.
- He likens mental health to medicine where early intervention prevents chronic, hard-to-resolve conditions.