Mike Berney Retires as Executive Director of Palouse River Counseling

After over three decades of leadership, Mike Berney has announced his retirement as Executive Director of Palouse River Counseling, effective December 2023. Berney, a pivotal figure in the development of behavioral health services in the region, will hand over the reins to Kathleen Stewardson, the organization’s Clinical Director, following a national search for his successor.

Under Berney’s guidance, Palouse River Counseling has transformed significantly since its inception. Originally established as Whitman County Mental Health and later rebranded as Whitman County Counseling Services, the organization became an independent nonprofit clinic in 2003. This change was facilitated by Berney’s collaboration with county commissioners, aimed at enhancing service delivery to the community.

Growth and Accomplishments

When Berney took the helm, the clinic employed around 20 staff members. Today, that number has expanded to more than 40 professionals, including psychologists, counselors, social workers, psychiatrists, and nurses. This growth has enabled the center to broaden its range of outpatient services, which now include individual therapy, crisis intervention, substance abuse treatment, group sessions, and medication management.

Berney described the evolution of Palouse River Counseling as “almost a night and day difference.” He emphasized that the center’s primary achievement has been its ability to serve a greater number of individuals in need of mental health care. The organization operates on a sliding scale payment system, ensuring that clients receive services tailored to their financial situations.

Cultural Shift in Behavioral Health

During his tenure, Berney witnessed a positive cultural shift regarding behavioral health. While stigma around seeking counseling persists, he noted that more individuals are acknowledging the benefits of these services. The conversation has shifted from “mental illness” to “mental health,” which Berney believes is crucial in reducing stigma.

“I’m particularly pleased to see behavioral health recognized as a core component of primary health care,” Berney stated. He highlighted the strengthening relationships among local health practitioners, hospitals, and law enforcement, all of whom collaborate to support individuals in crisis.

Looking ahead, Berney expressed optimism about the future of mental health services in the community. “We’ve got a great group of people that work here,” he said, adding that he is confident Stewardson will continue to advance the availability of behavioral health services for residents in Pullman and throughout Whitman County.

As Berney prepares for retirement, his legacy remains firmly embedded in the fabric of the community he has served for decades, with Palouse River Counseling poised to continue its mission under new leadership.