Meet the MHRS Team

Melissa Fields, Director of Quality and Clinical Operations.

Melissa is the newest member of the MHRS team. She began employment in June 2024 and stated that joining the MHRS Board felt like a very natural transition after working in community behavioral health for so long. She feels viewing the county as a whole, identifying overall trends and needs and then helping to develop services to meet those needs is really appealing and what inspired her to become part of the Mental Health and Recovery Services Board.

Melissa graduated from Miami University, receiving undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Social Work and earned a Master of Social Work from the University of Cincinnati. Besides her current role with the board, she is also an adjunct professor for the Bachelor of Social Work program at Kent State University’s Ashtabula Campus. Melissa has more than 25 years of experience in child protective services and community mental health, in both direct service and management.

Melissa stated what she is most excited about in her new role. “I’ve been surprised by how much I’ve already learned in this new position. I thought much of it would be similar to past experience, but I didn’t know what I didn’t know. It’s been eye-opening and refreshing to look at a familiar landscape from a different perspective.” She also states that she likes to problem-solve and be creative in figuring out solutions. Lastly, Melissa said, “I really appreciate being back in a small supportive office that maintains a consistent supply of chocolate.”

We’re thrilled to have Melissa as part of our team and look forward to the positive impact she’ll continue to make in our community.