Sierra County Appoints New Behavioral Health Director
Tiffany Armstrong brings 28 years of experience from Lassen County.
2 min read
Sierra County Behavioral Health Director Tiffany Armstrong (right) addresses the Board with Personnel Director Judi Behlke.
DOWNIEVILLE – Sierra County supervisors officially appointed Tiffany Armstrong as behavioral health director November 3, choosing the longtime Lassen County official to lead the department after its former director resigned in June. Armstrong has been acting as director since October 26.
Armstrong spent 28 years working for Lassen County, including nine as behavioral health director. She will oversee Sierra County’s mental health and substance use services. She takes over from Robert Szopa, who served as acting director after Sheryll Prinz-McMillan resigned effective June 30.
Armstrong is a licensed clinical social worker, and has also served as Mental Health Services Act program manager, according to Lassen County. In its appointment letter to the state, Sierra County cited her experience overseeing behavioral health programs, regulatory compliance, quality management, and clinical services.
“I am privileged to take on this position,” Armstrong told the board.
Behlke introduced Armstrong at the November 3 meeting and explained that the appointment required a submission to the California Department of Health Care Services, as Szopa’s interim appointment had. Supervisors also approved a letter asking the state to review Armstrong’s qualifications and confirm her eligibility to serve.
Supervisor Sharon Dryden welcomed Armstrong to the county team.
“You’re a people person. You listen and you solve problems, and that’s what it takes,” Supervisor Terry LeBlanc told Armstrong.
Armstrong thanked Szopa for leading the department through the transition, saying he had done an “amazing job.” Supervisor Lee Adams also thanked her for recognizing Szopa’s work.
“He took on a task that no other director usually likes to get into, so I want to give him huge kudos,” Armstrong said.
Armstrong called the employees she had met during her first week “top-notch” and praised what they were accomplishing in a small community. That week included a mobile crisis response, giving her an early look at the team’s work.
“It was exciting to see them all in action and see what they can do,” Armstrong said.