Placek named Crook County Mental Health director

Lutheran Community Services Northwest announced Wednesday the selection of Laura Placek to fill the position of Crook County Mental Health director.

Placek brings over 20 years of experience in direct service delivery, investigation, assessment, and case management for offenders and consumers with severe and persistent mental health issues, alcohol and drug abuse addictions, and cognitive behavioral limitations.

She comes to Central Oregon from Wisconsin where she worked as a License Professional Counselor, a State Public Defender-Independent Expert in Forensic Presentence Investigations, a Mental and Behavioral Health Outpatient and Clinic Director, and a Probation and Parole Agent for the Wisconsin Department of Corrections.

Graduating with a Bachelor’s of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee and a Master’s of Science degree from the University of Southern New Hampshire, Placek’s clinical areas of expertise in which she is certified include: Dual State Licensed Professional Counselor , Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor, Certified Social Worker, Certified Provider for WI Batterers Treatment, Certified Collaborative Divorce Mediator, Department of Corrections Magistrate, Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider, and Certified Cognitive Intervention Group Facilitator.

“Lutheran Community Services is excited to have Laura join our team as Community Mental Health Program Director. Her experience and knowledge with mental illness, substance abuse disorders, and criminal justice systems will benefit Crook County and the Prineville community. Laura will bring great leadership, expertise, and community involvement to her new position!” – Bob Pickel, LCS Senior District Director

Placek was born and raised in rural Wisconsin where her parents taught her the important values of hard and ethical work, honesty and integrity. After meeting her husband at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, the two relocated to her home town, dedicating their lives to serving those in need. The pair have two daughters both of which live on the west coast which resulted in their move to Prineville. In their spare time, they enjoy hiking, music festivals, gardening, volunteering and walking their dog.

“I look forward to building your trust through transparency and accountability. I will continuously strive to build partnerships while bringing excellent community service to the people of Crook County.”- Laura Placek, Community Mental Health Director

Lutheran Community Services Northwest is a non-profit social services and social justice agency that partners with Crook County to provide behavioral health and Intellectual / Developmental Disabilities supports and services to the community. Our services go beyond traditional therapy, however, to include support for obtaining gainful employment, stable housing, managing medications, case management services and skills training. We also employ peers to be able to help where traditional therapy cannot. In 2017 we provided support to more than 1,600 Crook County community members.