At Citizen Advocates, we are committed to making lives better.
What began in 1975 as a small, community-driven effort rooted in the belief that care belongs close to home has grown into a leading provider of integrated, community-based care, reaching thousands of individuals and families each year across Upstate New York.
Based in Malone, we deliver mental health, addiction treatment, physical health and developmental disability services, along with housing and other essential supports that promote individual health through stable housing, job training, food security and transportation.
Today, more than 750 employees carry this work forward, serving over 9,300 individuals and families across seven counties annually. Our approach remains person-centered and grounded in respect for each individual’s goals, choices and right to define their own future.
As we look ahead, we are building on this legacy with intention. Our focus is on responsible growth, expanding access to high-quality, convenient care, and investing in the people, systems and infrastructure that drive better outcomes. Guided by our mission and powered by our workforce, we remain committed to advancing whole health and well-being for every community we serve.
Our Mission
Strengthening access to high-quality convenient behavioral health, physical health and developmental disability services, as well as housing, transportation, employment and food security programs.
Our Vision
To be known as a collective of innovative social care providers, focused on advancing the wellness of the communities served by delivering convenient, whole person care with a balanced and stable portfolio of services operating under sound fiscal stewardship.
Our Leadership
Executive Team
James Button serves as President & CEO of Citizen Advocates, St. Joseph’s Addiction Treatment & Recovery Centers, Harison Place and the Fieldstone Foundation. A mission-driven leader, James has guided Citizen Advocates through a period of strategic growth marked by thoughtful affiliations, service expansion, and innovation across behavioral health, addiction recovery and Intellectual/Developmental Disability services.
Appointed by Governor Kathy Hochul to the Behavioral Health Services Advisory Council and previously by Governor Andrew Cuomo to the New York State Rural Health Council, James has helped shape statewide policy to improve access and equity for New Yorkers in need of care.
Under his leadership, Citizen Advocates has advanced next-generation models of integrated care—such as behavioral health campuses that bring multiple disciplines together under one roof, and Harison Place, an innovative supportive housing community designed to promote stability, independence and recovery.
Recognized as a gifted public speaker and storyteller, James is known for communicating complex ideas in a way that inspires action and unity. He holds master’s degrees in Education and Clinical Social Work from the State University of New York and a Healthcare Administrator’s Certificate from the University of Vermont.
He lives in upstate New York with his wife Camelia, their sons Ben and Jake, and their German shepherd, Paris.
Kati Jock
Network Senior Vice President
As the Network Senior Vice President, Kati works closely with leadership across human resources, finance, communications, information technology and facilities to support cohesive and patient-centered operations for Citizen Advocates and its affiliates. Her focus is on providing accessible and convenient mental health, substance use, disability and housing services to the communities we serve. During her tenure at Citizen Advocates, Kati has led geographic expansion efforts and launched three Behavioral Health Campuses. Her greatest accomplishment is bringing the teams at Citizen Advocates and St. Joseph’s Addiction Treatment & Recovery Centers together to collaborate and learn from one another.
Kati brings nearly two decades of experience in strategic and business planning for health systems. Her career has included leading affiliations and mergers, designing business plans to support primary care expansion, and working closely with executive teams to shape organizational vision, drive profitability and sustain growth. Her previous roles include Director of Behavioral Health at Citizen Advocates.
With a passion for strategy and analysis, Kati is committed to using data-driven approaches to transform information into meaningful action that enhances health outcomes. She especially enjoys teaching teams how to interpret financial data and make strategic decisions through strong project management and planning.
Kati earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Biomedical Technology and a Master’s in Business Administration from Clarkson University. She is a NYS Certified Peer Specialist, a Certified Professional Coach and received her End-of-Life Doula Certificate from the University of Vermont.
Outside of work, she volunteers her time as a member of the Board of Directors for United Way of Northern New York. She enjoys walks along the shores of Lake Champlain and spending time with her family.
Jennifer Dishaw
Network Chief of Staff
Jennifer Dishaw serves as Network Chief of Staff at Citizen Advocates and its affiliates, where she helps lead and coordinate the day-to-day priorities of the Executive Leadership Team. In this role, she supports enterprise alignment and follow-through on the organization’s most important initiatives, translating strategy into clear execution across functions.
Jennifer provides management oversight of Government Affairs and the Fieldstone Foundation. She is known for steady judgment, deep institutional knowledge, and a disciplined approach to navigating complex organizational dynamics with discretion and clarity.
Prior to becoming Network Chief of Staff in 2019, Jennifer led a major initiative to modernize Citizen Advocates’ electronic medical record system, strengthening operational and clinical infrastructure across the network. Earlier in her career, she managed the Billing Department for 11 years, building strong expertise in healthcare reimbursement and the financial systems that sustain access to care.
Jennifer holds a Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration and brings a grounded, mission-centered perspective to leadership, with a focus on strengthening the systems and relationships that support people and programs across the organization.
Jennifer DiTullio
Network Chief Operations Officer
As the Network Chief Operations Officer, Jennifer leads strategic initiatives to enhance the delivery of comprehensive health and social support programs for the communities we serve. She started her career in foster care where she developed a deep understanding of and empathy for the variety of challenges faced by children and families. She has built upon this experience with over 10 years of leadership experience in the field of health and human services.
Jennifer’s journey led her to Citizen Advocates, where she has successfully supported cross-functional teams, managed large-scale projects and advocated for policy changes to advance the organization’s mission. In addition to her current role, she has previously held the positions of Director of Community Support, Director of Behavioral Health and Senior Director of Operations.
With a commitment to fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement, Jennifer is particularly focused on enhancing program accessibility, optimizing service delivery models and leveraging community partnerships to address systemic issues in health and human services.
Jennifer holds a Master’s in Business Administration from Clarkson University and a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from SUNY Potsdam. She is a dedicated mom, proud wife and enjoys doing DIY renovation projects.
Courtney Frank
Network Chief Financial Officer
As Network Chief Financial Officer, Courtney oversees Finance, Revenue Cycle, Population Health and Planning, and Electronic Health Records for Citizen Advocates and affiliates. Her strategic focus includes strengthening financial foundations, aligning resources with organizational priorities and driving innovation that supports accessible, high-quality care.
Courtney’s journey with Citizen Advocates reflects both dedication and growth. She began her career on the front lines as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and, over the past 15 years, has taken on leadership roles spanning operations, technology, revenue cycle and finance. Most recently, she has served as Network Associate Vice President of Finance.
Her leadership philosophy is rooted in connecting financial stewardship to improved access and convenience for individuals struggling with mental health and addiction. She believes that sound financial planning is essential to deliver compassionate, mission-driven care.
Courtney holds a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and an MBA with a concentration in Accounting. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, home renovation and decoration projects, and cheering on her four children in their sports and dance activities.
Heather Wenzel
Network Chief Human Resources and Compliance Officer
As the Network Chief Human Resources and Compliance Officer, Heather oversees Human Resources, Compliance and Communications for Citizen Advocates and affiliates. Her strategic focus includes building a supportive and engaged workforce, ensuring compliance practices that protect both employees and those served, and fostering clear communications that connect teams internally and with the broader community.
Heather began her career as a Direct Support Professional and brings over 25 years of experience in health and human services. She has held various operational leadership roles and is driven by the belief that when employees feel supported, valued and engaged, the care delivered to communities is at its strongest.
Her leadership philosophy centers on empowering others and cultivating collaboration and learning as the foundation for lasting impact. She has led cross-functional initiatives that strengthen organizational culture and compliance, and she continues to champion efforts that align employee experience with mission-driven outcomes.
Heather holds dual Bachelor’s degrees in Communications and English Writing, as well as a Master’s in Rhetoric from SUNY Potsdam. She is a credentialled leadership coach and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Leadership Studies from Louisiana State University–Shreveport. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and two rat terriers. She also serves as a Board Member for Youth Advocate Programs.
Kaitlyn Gervais
Network Associate Vice President of Behavioral Health
Kaitlyn serves as Network Associate Vice President of Behavioral Health for Citizen Advocates and its affiliates, overseeing behavioral health operations across Upstate New York. She is focused on ensuring services are accessible, high quality and responsive to community needs.
Kaitlyn’s leadership has supported key initiatives, including recertifications and the advancement of Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic standards. She also led the establishment of 24/7 Crisis Residence care and Citizen Advocates’ St. Lawrence County Mobile Crisis Team. Kaitlyn is driven by a commitment to improving access to care and delivering person-centered, outcome-focused services.
A Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Kaitlyn holds a Master’s degree from SUNY Albany and a Bachelor’s degree from SUNY Plattsburgh. She brings nearly 10 years of experience to her role and has progressed through positions including Clinician, Clinician Team Lead and Clinic Manager.
Outside of work, she enjoys exploring the Adirondacks with her husband and daughter.
Matthew Jones
Network Associate Vice President of Infrastructure & Technology
As Network Associate Vice President of Infrastructure & Technology for Citizen Advocates and its affiliates, Matt is responsible for facilities, maintenance, transportation, capital projects, safety, procurement, information technology, security and Harison Place Housing.
Prior to joining the Citizen Advocates team, Matt spent over 15 years in progressive leadership roles in hospital healthcare. He has a servant leadership style and is passionate about creating a team atmosphere where individuals feel supported and valued.
In his previous roles, Matt has led initiatives to enhance access to many services including imaging, infusion and physical rehabilitation services. He successfully managed a community hospital through the COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining safe operations and quality care. He has overseen the completion of major capital projects, including a Skilled Nursing Facility, Primary Care Offices and major renovation projects. He also has implemented practices that have improved purchasing processes and efficiencies, saving hundreds of thousands of dollars in supply costs.
Matt received a Bachelor’s Degree of Liberal Arts with a concentration in Economics from Hamilton College and went on to receive his Master’s in Healthcare Administration with a concentration in Operations from Capella University. He is a passionate about his family and an avid sports fanatic. He volunteers his time on the Board of Directors for Malone Minor Hockey and has coached many of the youth levels within the program.
As Associate Vice President of Community Operations, Tiffany leads Citizen Advocates’ Community Living and Community Supports departments with a focus on community integration, quality and staff support.
She began her career in healthcare management within primary and specialty care settings, building a strong operational foundation before transitioning into behavioral health leadership. She brings extensive experience in healthcare management and has held roles including Director of Behavioral Health, Director of Community Supports and Senior Director of Community Operations.
Tiffany’s leadership has included the creation of the Dual Diagnosis Workforce Taskforce, bringing together teams from across Community Operations, Behavioral Health, Nursing and Shared Services to ensure aligned care is provided to the individuals the agency serves. She is driven by a commitment to enhancing quality of life for program participants while fostering a supportive and accountable environment for staff.
Outside of work, Tiffany cherishes time spent with family, enjoys photography and can often be found cheering on her children from the stands of a local sporting event.
Ashley LaValley
Associate Vice President of Clinical Care
As Associate Vice President of Clinical Care, Ashley provides executive oversight of nursing services, the nurse practitioner team and the clinical education program at Citizen Advocates. She is focused on ensuring care is high quality, evidence based and person centered across the organization.
Ashley brings more than a decade of experience across outpatient, inpatient and community-based settings. Her clinical background has shaped her leadership approach and commitment to advancing best practices in care delivery.
She has previously served as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Senior Director of Nursing and Patient Care. Through this work, she has strengthened clinical teams and supported the development of consistent care models across services.
She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from Stony Brook University and is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, ANCC Board Certified.
Joseph Riccio
Network Associate Vice President of External Affairs
Joseph Riccio serves as Network Associate Vice President of External Affairs for Citizen Advocates and its Network of affiliates. In this role, he is responsible for strengthening relationships with key stakeholders, including the workforce, patients, executive leadership, boards of directors, community leaders, elected officials, governmental and regulatory partners, and current and potential affiliates.
His work ensures that Citizen Advocates and its affiliates are well-positioned to advance their mission while navigating an increasingly complex healthcare environment.
With two decades of experience in healthcare communications, marketing and government affairs, Joseph has worked across a broad spectrum of care settings—from acute and primary care at Adirondack Health in Saranac Lake to mental health, addiction and disability services at Citizen Advocates in Upstate New York. He also brings a decade of political experience, having served as both a village trustee and mayor, which deepened his understanding of how governmental partnerships and community engagement are vital to building healthier, stronger communities.
Joseph believes that effective external relations and governmental affairs are essential for ensuring access, sustaining growth and influencing policies that support high-quality, convenient care. When not working, he enjoys spending time with his wife Joanne, whether it’s outdoors, cooking a great meal or travelling to visit their daughter in California.
Senior Directors
Melanie Bigness
Network Senior Executive Assistant
As Network Senior Executive Assistant, Melanie provides high-level support to executive leadership across Citizen Advocates and its affiliates. She plays a key role in ensuring coordination, communication and operational alignment at the leadership level, supporting strategic initiatives and organizational priorities.
Melanie began her career with Citizen Advocates in 2019 as a Customer Support Representative, where she developed a strong understanding of organizational operations and the importance of responsive, service-driven support. She has since built seven years of experience, progressing through roles including Administrative Assistant, Integrated Services Project Lead and Executive Assistant.
Her work is grounded in professionalism, discretion and accountability, with a focus on supporting leaders and teams to operate effectively. Melanie is committed to maintaining strong systems and processes that enable leadership to stay focused on advancing the Network’s mission.
Outside of work, Melanie enjoys spending time with her husband and three children and is an avid camper who values time outdoors.
Sara Cook
Network Senior Director of Compliance
Sara serves as the Network Senior Director of Compliance for Citizen Advocates and its affiliates, where she leads Compliance, Investigations and Risk Management initiatives. She works to ensure regulatory alignment, promote ethical practices and strengthen systems that support accountability and quality across the organization.
Sara began her career in the field as a Recreation Specialist, gaining early insight into the needs of individuals served and the importance of structured, supportive environments. She brings more than 12 years of experience in compliance, with a progression that includes roles such as Incident Management Specialist and Director of Incident Management.
Throughout her career, Sara has led key initiatives including accreditation efforts and the integration of compliance practices across affiliates. Her leadership is driven by a commitment to advocating for the individuals served through strong systems, clear processes and continuous improvement.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from The College of Saint Rose.
Briggette Shaheen
Network Senior Director of Revenue Cycle
Briggette serves as Network Senior Director of Revenue Cycle, leading revenue cycle operations across Citizen Advocates and its affiliates. She oversees revenue cycle management, billing and utilization review processes that support alignment between clinical services, payer requirements and organizational performance.
With more than 30 years of experience, Briggette began her career in an optometry practice, where she developed foundational expertise in billing, and has since advanced within the Network through roles including Billing Specialist, Billing Manager and Revenue Cycle Director.
She has led complex initiatives, including the electronic health record implementation at St. Joseph’s Addiction Treatment & Recovery Centers, and is recognized for driving process improvement, enhancing reporting and developing teams that deliver consistent results. Briggette prioritizes both the patient financial experience and overall revenue performance, ensuring billing processes are transparent, timely and responsive while strengthening outcomes and resolving issues quickly and effectively.
Outside of work, Briggette enjoys spending time with her family and serves on the board of directors of Tupper Lake Youth Hockey. Go Jacks!
Amanda Tagliarino
Senior Director of Fieldstone Foundation
As Senior Director of the Fieldstone Foundation, Amanda guides charitable strategy, fundraising, grant development, donor engagement, volunteer initiatives and community partnerships that support children, families and individuals across the communities served. She oversees philanthropic initiatives addressing food insecurity and social determinants of health through programs including the Backpack Program, Summer Feeding Program, Fieldstone Fund and seasonal giving efforts.
Amanda began her career in healthcare operations, where she developed expertise in supporting clinical teams and improving organizational systems. She brings more than 22 years of experience and has held roles including Regional Practice Operations Manager and Director of Professional Development and Training for Citizen Advocates.
Her leadership includes developing centralized training programs and leading a multi-year, organization-wide culture initiative to strengthen engagement, accountability and alignment across teams. She has also expanded fundraising initiatives that support long-term impact and a more connected workforce. Amanda values relationship-building and cross-functional collaboration, recognizing that lasting progress is built through trust, shared understanding and diverse perspectives.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Science in Human Relations and Organizational Development and is currently pursuing certification as a Project Management Professional. Outside of work, Amanda enjoys spending time with her family, hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the Adirondacks.
Stacie Warner
Network Senior Director of Finance
As Network Senior Director of Finance, Stacie oversees financial operations across Citizen Advocates and its affiliates. She is responsible for budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting, ensuring accuracy, compliance and timeliness. She manages cash flow and capital allocations, oversees the audit process and coordinates with external auditors, while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and internal controls.
Stacie began her career with Citizen Advocates directly after college and has built more than 31 years of experience through progressive roles in finance. Her career progression includes positions such as Payroll Specialist, Accounting Manager and Controller.
She has led cross-functional efforts to support budgeting and financial planning in partnership with operational teams. Stacie focuses on process improvement and collaboration, ensuring strong financial stewardship across the Network, and is driven by a deep belief in its mission.
Outside of work, Stacie enjoys camping, traveling and spending time with family and friends.
Boards of Directors
Citizen Advocates Board of Directors
Nick Eells, Chair
Felix Tam, Secretary
Dallas Sutton, Treasurer
Marc Gitlitz
Paul Goodrow
Rebecca Preve
Harison Place Board of Directors
Paul Goodrow, Chair
Greg Langdon, Secretary
Brian Stewart, Treasurer
Dallas Sutton
