Patchogue resident and professional social worker Kourtney Bevis has taken on the role of executive director of Patchogue-Medford Youth Community Services, the group announced last week.
In addition to her new position, Bevis serves as a licensed master social worker at South Shore Psychological Care. There, she provides counseling to individuals, couples and families for a wide range of issues, including anger management, anxiety, depression, substance abuse and personality disorders.
“We are delighted to have someone of Kourtney’s caliber and expertise,” said Joseph Dean, the board president at Patchogue-Medford Youth Community Services, which is a nonprofit organization that provides in-school counseling programs, holiday assistance and recreational programs for families and children in Patchogue and Medford.
Bevis had also previously worked at Patchogue-Medford Youth Community Services as a licensed master social worker.
“Having worked at the agency … her familiarity and understanding of our program guidelines and nuances will ensure a smooth and effective transition,” Dean added.
Bevis will oversee all programs and services, as well as assist in fundraising and grant writing, and serve as the primary contact with the educational, business, legislative and non-profit communities within Patchogue-Medford, according to the announcement.
She takes over for the outgoing Shawn Hirst, who served as executive director for six years.
“As a Patchogue resident and former employee, I’ve witnessed first-hand the positive impact the agency has had on the community, and its success in early intervention with at-risk children,” said Bevis.
In her previous position with the youth services group, Bevis facilitated after-school psycho-educational programs to at-risk high school, middle school and elementary aged youth; provided individual and family counseling, and organized community service learning opportunities for youth.
She also has extensive field experience with Lindenhurst school district, and the Emergency Psych ER and Substance Abuse Unit: FOCUS at Brookhaven Memorial Hospital.
She has a master’s degree in social work from Adelphi University and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Hofstra University. She lives in Patchogue with her husband and two children.
courtesy photo
Related: On Super Bowl Sunday, the Village Idiot Pub in Patchogue will be selling raffle tickets to benefit Patchogue-Medford Youth Community Services. Click for details.
