Our Staff
Ryan Wertepny, CPP
Executive Director
Ryan Wertepny brings more than 15 years of experience in the behavioral health field and a strong commitment to community well-being as the Executive Director of Palm Beach County Behavioral Health Coalition (PBCBHC). With extensive expertise in overseeing prevention efforts and securing substantial funding for evidence-based programs, Ryan is well-positioned to advance the coalition’s mission and impact.
Prior to joining PBCBHC, Ryan demonstrated exceptional leadership at the Hanley Foundation, where he managed prevention initiatives and played a pivotal role in securing over $15 million in funding for evidence-based programs. During his tenure, he led the growth and expansion of prevention services, increasing the program’s reach from four staff serving three counties with an annual budget of $600,000 to a team of more than 50 staff providing services across 32 counties with a budget exceeding $7.5 million annually.
As a Certified Prevention Professional and Chair of the state-wide Prevention Committee under the Florida Behavioral Health Association’s Children & Adolescent Division, Ryan has showcased his leadership at both local and state levels. His long-standing relationship with PBCBHC, including serving on the Board of Directors and being honored as the Community (Civic) Leader Champion in 2014, underscores his dedication to the coalition’s mission of empowering children, families, and neighborhoods through awareness, education, and training.
Amanda Aiken, CFLE
Director of Programs
Amanda Aiken is a dedicated non-profit professional with over seven years of experience in substance use prevention. A graduate of Florida State University, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Family and Child Sciences, with minors in Psychology and Social Welfare. Currently, she is pursuing a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, specializing in systemic addiction, further enhancing her expertise in this critical area. Amanda is also a Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE), bringing a wealth of knowledge to family and community dynamics.
Throughout her career, Amanda has worked collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including schools, local governments, and community organizations, to implement evidence-based programs that empower individuals and families. She has successfully led workshops and training sessions, enhancing community awareness and engagement while promoting resilience and prevention strategies.
With a strong commitment to community health, Amanda is skilled in data analysis and program evaluation, ensuring that interventions are effective and sustainable. Her collaborative approach has been instrumental in building partnerships that amplify resources and reach.
Lavidah Johnson, ECSL, MSEd
Director of Operations
As Director of Operations, Lavidah Johnson plays a vital role in advancing the mission of the Palm Beach County Behavioral Health Coalition. She ensures the organization’s fiscal integrity and operational excellence through effective management of an annual budget exceeding $1.8 million. Lavidah’s leadership strengthens the coalition’s capacity to deliver impactful prevention programs by aligning financial systems with GAAP standards, ensuring grant compliance, and maintaining transparency with stakeholders.
Her strategic oversight supports the coalition’s long-term sustainability and enhances its ability to serve children, families, and communities across Palm Beach County. By integrating data-driven decision-making, efficient processes, and collaborative leadership, Lavidah helps PBCBHC maximize resources, expand partnerships, and improve behavioral health outcomes countywide.
Schneidrell Despeines
Project Manager
Schneidrell is a solutions-driven project manager with 8+ years of experience leading all stages of the project lifecycle to deliver results on time and on budget. A graduate of the University of Denver with a degree in Healthcare Administration, she has supported Fortune 100 clients and nonprofit organizations alike, consistently driving efficiencies and quality outcomes. At Palm Beach County Behavioral Health Coalition, Schneidrell brings her expertise in cross-functional collaboration, client communication, and strategic project management to advance community well-being.
Susan Foley
Project Manager
The Florida State University awarded Susan a Bachelor of Science in Therepuetic Recreation. She and her husband started a recreation firm in 1985 and got paid to play. She’s a dynamic and compassionate professional with over 40 years of experience in therapeutic recreation, special event planning, fun facilitation and behavioral health program management and prevention education. Skilled at inspiring individuals and teams through creative, evidence-based programs and prevention initiatives. Susan brings a unique blend of leadership, facilitation, and heart for service — empowering people of all ages and abilities to live healthier, more connected lives. Currently residing in Virginia with her husband Terry, she is GoGo to two grand daughters - her most cherished role. Susan and Terry have two adult children, a few cats and a mountain-minded life.
Johnkeria Kinglocke, PMP®, FCCM, FCCN
Project Manager
Johnkeria Kinglocke, PMP®, FCCM, FCCN, is a Project Manager with Palm Beach County Behavioral Health Coalition, bringing over eight years of combined experience in project management, regional coordination, and public health programming. She has led high-impact initiatives focused on behavioral health, prevention, and community capacity building across South Florida.
Johnkeria is recognized for her expertise in managing grant-funded programs, developing cross-sector partnerships, and streamlining operational systems to enhance efficiency and community impact. Before joining PBCBHC, she managed large-scale prevention projects at Hanley Foundation and oversaw systems and contract operations at the Florida Division of Emergency Management. Driven by a passion for improving mental health outcomes, she continues to champion data-informed strategies and collaborative leadership to support Palm Beach County’s behavioral health goals.
Ana Martinez
Project Manager
A proud alumna of Florida State University, Ana holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, as well as a Master’s Degree and an Education Specialist Degree in Counseling and Human Systems. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a nationally accredited board-certified Counselor, After working in community mental health for several years, Ana’s dedication led her to establish her own practice, where she helps individuals navigate anxiety, depression, and trauma. She specializes in working with teens, young adults, and Latinas. Ana extends her passion for mental health education by serving as a certified Mental Health First Aid instructor. She enjoys providing education to community members to dismantle mental health stigma and raise awareness of available resources within the community.
Addys Guerra
Project Manager
Skilled at bridging communication, anticipating needs, and guiding projects smoothly from planning to completion, Addys is dedicated to empowering young people through substance prevention education, leadership development, and community engagement. With over seven years of experience in communication strategy and digital outreach, she brings creativity, organization, and passion to every initiative that supports youth growth and wellbeing.
In her role, Addys helps lead programs that promote healthy decision-making, guide students in developing advocacy and leadership skills, and foster a safe and inclusive environment for open dialogue. Fluent in English and Spanish, Addys is deeply committed to helping young people find their voice, build resilience, and make positive choices that shape a stronger future for themselves and their communities.
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Together, We Can Build a Healthier Future
Your involvement helps protect families, empower youth, and create lasting change across Palm Beach County.