Bright Harbor Healthcare Names Molhem Children’s Services Director

Bright Harbor Healthcare has appointed Tonya Molhem, LCSW, as the new Director of Children and Family Services Division, marking a significant leadership change for the Ocean County behavioral health provider.

Molhem, who brings over a decade of experience in mental health services, has risen through the ranks at Bright Harbor Healthcare after initially joining the organization as a volunteer in 2012 when it operated under its former name, Ocean Mental Health Services.

Her appointment comes at a critical time when demand for children’s mental health services continues to grow throughout the region. Industry experts note that leadership stability in community mental health organizations is essential for program continuity and development, particularly in specialized services for vulnerable populations.

After identifying a gap in care for postpartum women and families, I had the support of the agency to create a program that could truly make a difference,” said Molhem, referencing one of her most recognized achievements at the organization.

That program, HOPES (Healing through Outpatient Perinatal Education and Support), has become a cornerstone service addressing perinatal mental health needs in Ocean County. The specialized program has helped fill a critical service gap for new mothers and families experiencing postpartum mental health challenges.

Photo Source: https://brightharbor.org/hopes/

Molhem’s career trajectory at Bright Harbor Healthcare reflects the organization’s commitment to internal talent development. After starting as a volunteer, she pursued her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from The College of New Jersey before joining the agency full-time. While working in Adult Residential Services, she simultaneously completed her Master’s Degree in Social Work at Fordham University.

Her previous roles include serving as a Clinical Therapist and Coordinator for the Keeping Families Together program, where she worked with families at risk of separation due to housing instability and child welfare concerns.

In her new leadership position, Molhem has outlined immediate priorities focused on organizational assessment and staff development. Her approach emphasizes listening and learning before implementing changes, a methodology that aligns with best practices in behavioral health leadership transitions.

Looking ahead, Molhem plans to expand the division’s services to better align with emerging community needs. She has identified strengthening partnerships with other state agencies and community organizations as a key strategic objective.

“One of Bright Harbor’s greatest strengths is its ability to recognize service gaps and develop meaningful solutions. That’s what excites me most about this work,” Molhem stated.

Photo Source: DepositPhotos

Bright Harbor Healthcare, which serves as a leading provider of comprehensive behavioral health services in Ocean County, has been expanding its children’s services in recent years. The organization delivers community-based, person-centered care through multiple programs targeting different age groups and mental health needs.

The appointment represents a continuation of Bright Harbor Healthcare’s mission to deliver comprehensive behavioral health services to Ocean County residents. As demand for mental health services continues to grow, particularly for children and families, leadership appointments like Molhem’s signal organizational commitment to program sustainability and development.

Mental health professionals across the region will be watching to see how the Children and Family Services Division evolves under Molhem’s leadership, particularly as the behavioral health landscape continues to face workforce challenges and increasing service demands.

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