Mission

Mental Health America Fredericksburg Region addresses the behavioral health and substance use needs of our diverse communities across the Fredericksburg region by identifying gaps in local services and creating unique programs and partnerships to address them.

Vision

MHAfred envisions a just, humane and healthy society in which all people are accorded respect, dignity and the opportunity to achieve their full potential free of stigma and prejudice.

Mental Health America Fredericksburg Region:

• Connects people with appropriate and available resources
• Educates to promote mental health awareness and understanding
• Advocates for policies and programs that impact the lives of people with mental health problems in our community
• Serves those with mental health needs by providing supportive services
• Identifies gaps unmet by public and private mental health providers and insurers
• Creates and incubates programs tailored to meet those needs through collaborative efforts

Staff

Barbara Barlow
Executive Director (She/Her)

Barbara graduated from the University of Richmond (UR) with a graduate degree in Nonprofit Management (MNS) and an undergraduate degree in interdisciplinary studies focusing on leadership studies, business, and liberal arts. Before working at MHAfred, she was the principal of a consulting firm helping nonprofits improve governance and sustainability. Throughout her decades of experience, she has assisted boards with strategic planning, policies, and financial oversight.

At the same time, by mentoring executive directors, the capacity of organizational deliverables such as program outcomes, evaluation, and regulatory compliance was increased. These experiences also qualified her to conduct the Leadership Lab at UR’s Institute of Philanthropy. Additionally, she has worked as an executive director for both nonprofits and small business, which informs her work in creating partnerships and collaborations that increases desired impacts across communities.

Gabrielle Henry 

Operations Manager (She/Her)

Gabrielle is a multifaceted professional who holds an Associate’s degree in Business Administration and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. With a career that encompasses logistics, operations, sales, entrepreneurship, event planning, management, and strategic planning, she exemplifies adaptability and excellence in diverse settings.

In her personal life, Gabrielle treasures her beautiful family and is committed to an active lifestyle. An outdoor enthusiast at heart, Gabrielle finds profound peace and joy in camping, swimming, and boating, where she can fully immerse herself in the tranquility of nature. With a deep sense of self-awareness, she prioritizes peace, joy, love, and laughter as the cornerstones of her life. Gabrielle skillfully blends logical thinking with emotional intelligence and ambition, enabling her to tackle challenges with clarity and purpose. Her inspiring journey and outlook make her a remarkable individual who leaves a lasting impact on those around her.

Regina Price
Signs of Suicide Presenter (She/Her)

Regina is a caregiver, inspirational speaker, best-selling author, certified marriage and couples coach, licensed marriage commissioner, notary public, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), Trauma Informed Care Presenter, and Signs of Suicide Presenter with Mental Health America of Fredericksburg and Suicide Education Program. She completed a master’s in Adult Education from Strayer University in 2015. Regina is the founder and CEO of A Life 4 Life LLC, a certified Small Women and Minority (SwaM) business.

She also has over 9 years of tenure involving casework with Big Brothers Big Sisters Greater Fredericksburg. Additionally, she is a member of the Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce, was featured in the Author Push Magazine, iShine Magazine, local Free Lance-Star Author Spotlight, Fredericksburg Diverse City Series blog, and received a valued contribution to the community certificate signed by Mayor Katherine Greenlaw.

Noel Sutton 

Signs of Suicide Presenter (She/Her)

Noel is a dedicated crisis specialist with a strong focus on suicide prevention and trauma management. With extensive certifications in crisis intervention, including Adverse Childhood Experiences Trainer (ACEs) and REVIVE! Lay Rescuer Trainer, she is committed to equipping individuals and communities with the tools needed to address mental health challenges and build resiliency. Her background encompasses experience in law enforcement, corrections, and working with at-risk youth. She possesses an understanding of the complexities surrounding the mental health crisis.

Additionally, as a certified CPR First Aid/AED instructor, Noel empowers people with essential life-saving skills, enhancing community preparedness. She actively engages in initiatives that support all individuals and their families, emphasizing the importance of mental health resources within their community and focusing on creating strategies that promote mental wellness and emotional strength for all. As a mother, Noel understands the unique challenges families face and is passionate about building resilience for both children and adults.

Martita Soto

Signs of Suicide Presenter (She/Her)

Martita Soto is a woman driven by a deep passion for serving others, known for her compassion and dedication to humanitarian causes. As the founder of a nonprofit organization, she has spent the past 26 years meeting the needs of the most vulnerable in the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Puerto Rico, and, more recently, in the state of Virginia. Her primary focus is on providing assistance to those facing extreme hardships. She organizes the “Makeover for the Soul” event, a transformative experience designed specifically for women, free of charge.

Her passion for writing and her desire to share inspiring messages have driven her to reach a larger audience, especially those most in need of comfort and guidance. In her personal life, Martita enjoys a beautiful family. She has been married for 35 years, has one son, and is a proud grandmother of three adorable grandchildren. Martita firmly believes that through her work, she can continue being a tool for change and hope in the world.

Amber Howell

Office Support – MHAfred HELPLINE (She/Her)

Amber has twenty years of nonprofit volunteer experience with Military Family Readiness Groups as an Army spouse, and most recently as a PTA Vice President. As a PTA Vice President, she assisted the President in all aspects of running the PTA. This included event planning, fundraising, and community engagement. She is a dedicated and hard-working individual with a focus on getting involved to improve our community.

Hailey Jobin

Senior Visitors Coordinator (She/Her)

Hailey is a passionate individual who is dedicated to learning more about our community. Since 2022, she has volunteered with planning events for her local PTA. She has also volunteered as a soccer coach and enjoys working with people of all ages! Most recently, Hailey has completed an associate’s degree in business administration and a Graphic Design certification. As a lifelong learner, she is attending Old Dominion University to earn her bachelor’s degree in political science.

Hailey also has a heart for older adults, having served as an Activities Specialist in memory care. Her experience with older adults gives her a unique perspective as the Senior Visitors Program Coordinator. Hailey cares about people and she enjoys working with MHAfred to improve the lives of older adults in the community. Outside of her professional life, Hailey is a devoted mother, raising two children. She enjoys spending her time outside in her garden, raising chickens, and playing with her dogs!

Moon Greene

Contact a Staff Member

Board of Directors

Dave Guzman
Treasurer
Commercial Banker, Truist Bank

Tomeka Jack-Myree
Germanna Community College

Kevin Handley
Clinical Psychologist