Santa Barbara Mental Wellness Center Announces Two Senior Leadership Promotions
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — June 11, 2026 — Santa Barbara Mental Wellness Center is proud to announce the promotions of Gabriela Dodson, LCSW, MSW, to Chief Program Officer and Liat Wasserman, MA, MSW, to Chief Development Officer, reflecting the organization’s continued investment in experienced, mission-driven leadership.
Dodson, who previously served as Director of Wellness & Recovery, brings more than 30 years of experience in the mental health field, with a career distinguished by clinical excellence, compassionate leadership and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of the communities she serves. In her new role, she will oversee Mental Wellness Center’s programs and services, including the Fellowship Club, Family Services, School-Based and Community Education Programs, and Housing & Residential Services.
“We are excited to see Mental Wellness Center’s programs continue to evolve and flourish under Gabriela’s leadership,” said Annmarie Cameron, CEO of Mental Wellness Center. “Her expansive vision, deep expertise and steadfast commitment to our mission will help ensure that our services remain innovative, inclusive and responsive to the needs of our community.”
Wasserman, who has served for the past four years as Director of Development & Communications, has played an instrumental role in strengthening community engagement, expanding philanthropic support and elevating awareness of Mental Wellness Center’s mission and impact. As Chief Development Officer, she will lead a comprehensive advancement strategy to support the organization’s long-term sustainability and growth.
“It has been a true honor to work alongside Liat,” said Cameron. “She is a strategic and visionary leader with an exceptional ability to cultivate meaningful relationships, inspire others and turn ambitious ideas into reality. Her passion, creativity and determination have helped advance Mental Wellness Center in significant ways, and I look forward to seeing her continued impact in this new role.”
Together, these promotions affirm Mental Wellness Center’s commitment to strong stewardship and thoughtful leadership continuity as the organization approaches its 80th anniversary and prepares for its next chapter of service, growth and community impact.
About Mental Wellness Center
Celebrating 79 years of service to Santa Barbara, Mental Wellness Center provides mental health education to local students; a residential services program, which offers a home to more than 100 community members across seven residential sites; and serves individuals and families impacted by mental illness through support groups and social connection programs like the Fellowship Club, an onsite Recovery Learning Center, offering community and a variety of resources for those working on their mental health and wellness. For more information, visit https://mentalwellnesscenter.org/.
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