Listen, Mental Health Matters: Deanna Sperling, RWJBarnabas Health

In the 14th episode of the “Listen, Mental Health Matters” podcast series, Brian Giebink, behavioral and mental health practice director, talks with Deanna Sperling, president and CEO of RWJBarnabas Health Behavioral Health Center and senior vice president of the RWJBarnabas Health Behavioral Health Service Line, about building and leading one of the nation’s largest integrated behavioral health service lines. Drawing on nearly three decades of experience, Sperling shares how commitment to standardization and collaboration across specialties has helped expand access to behavioral healthcare throughout New Jersey. Together, they explore the opportunities and challenges shaping the field today, from telehealth and workforce shortages to persistent stigma and social determinants of health, while highlighting the partnerships and patient-centered strategies that help connect people with care when and where they need it most.