In honor of Women’s History Month and celebrating inspirational leaders within CDCR/CCHCS, we spoke with Brittany Brizendine, Regional Health Care Executive for CCHCS in Region II, Fresno.
A conversation with Brittany Brizendine, PsyD, MBA, CCHP-MH
What brought you to CDCR/CCHCS?
My story begins in 2008 having completed my post-doctoral fellowship at Kaiser Permanente when I embarked upon my career as a licensed psychologist with CDCR at California State Prison, Sacramento. That period marked a pivotal decision point for me, embracing a new opportunity in corrections, a decision influenced by positive insights from a colleague from my graduate school days who is now the Chief of Mental Health at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center.
What inspired you to pursue a career in corrections and healthcare leadership, particularly in a field historically dominated by men?
Choosing corrections was a transformative step, teaching me the value of dedication and the impact one can make through their work with a historically underserved population, many of whom did not have health equity prior to incarceration.
I wanted to be a part of an organization which sets standards for the country for jails and prisons and to stay abreast of what other states are doing in terms of health care innovation within the correctional milieu.
I quickly learned that success and growth for me, within CDCR and CCHCS, were directly linked to one’s contributions and efforts. This understanding guided me as I sought ways to advance my career, leading to experiences across different roles within mental health services and healthcare operations, eventually propelling me toward further education.
How do you balance the demands of leadership with personal and family commitments?
Throughout my career in CDCR and CCHCS, I’ve been fortunate to work in environments that have been supportive, and merit based. The journey hasn’t been without its challenges, especially balancing high-demand roles with personal and family life. Yet, my passion for the work and the difference we make has always been a driving force. My commitment extends beyond work to include my love for the outdoors, traveling and spending time with family, reflecting the importance of self-care and supporting my team in achieving a healthy work-life balance.
Did you have any mentors along your personal and career journey who acted as an inspiration to you?
I am continually inspired and humbled by the talent and dedication within this organization. It’s been a privilege to contribute to such a dynamic and impactful environment, setting standards in correctional healthcare and administration. My current supervisor, Dr. Joseph Bick, Director of Health Care Services, openly acknowledges the difficulties faced for women in the workplace, whether unconscious or conscious and its detriment of all of us. This supportive culture extends to promoting women into leadership roles, which is evident in the composition of the Executive leadership team with many women at the top level of our organization. The level of care we provide at CCHCS stands in competitive comparison with the finest health care systems across the nation.
Within this last year, I have become an ambassador for the Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE). The members of GARE have been blazing the way for advancement of a diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce for more than 7 years within CDCR and CCHCS. Beyond what each of you are already doing to advance Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), I would encourage you to explore GARE and how you can contribute to positive change.
In reflection, my journey is not just about the positions I’ve held but about the collective efforts and achievements we’ve made in advancing our organization’s mission. It underscores the importance of mentorship, continuous learning, and the willingness to step out of one’s comfort zone for growth. I want to thank everyone for taking on the important work setting the bar and delivering exemplary healthcare in a corrections system.
By Amanda Spangler, Communications Specialist
California Correctional Health Care Services
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