Wendi Vierra, Ph.D.
About Wendi Vierra, Ph.D.
Wendi Vierra, Ph.D., serves as the Director of Operations for Behavioral Health at Neighborhood Healthcare, where she has worked since 2016. With extensive experience in behavioral health management, she has held various leadership roles and is skilled in data-driven program development and quality improvement initiatives.
Work at Neighborhood Healthcare
Wendi Vierra, Ph.D., has served as the Director of Operations for Behavioral Health at Neighborhood Healthcare since 2016. In this role, she oversees the management of high-quality and cost-effective utilization management programs. Her focus includes the development of data-driven tools to enhance operational efficiency. Vierra has been instrumental in ensuring that the organization meets its performance guarantees and maintains compliance with regulatory audits.
Previous Experience in Behavioral Health Management
Before joining Neighborhood Healthcare, Vierra held several significant positions in the behavioral health sector. She was the West Region Behavioral Health Manager II at Anthem Blue Cross from 2007 to 2011. Prior to that, she worked as the Chief Clinical Officer and Vice President of Clinical Care Services at Magellan Health from 2011 to 2016. Her experience also includes roles at Harmonium, Inc. as Substance Abuse Program Manager and Y-2-Y Program Director, and as a Psychiatric Liaison at Scripps Mercy Hospital.
Education and Expertise
Wendi Vierra earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from San Diego State University, where she studied from 1986 to 1995. She further advanced her education by obtaining a Ph.D. in Health Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology, completing her studies from 1995 to 2001. Her educational background supports her expertise in behavioral health management and clinical care.
Achievements in Behavioral Health Operations
Vierra has demonstrated a proven ability to provide leadership within the behavioral health field. She is accountable for managing over $285 million in annual revenue and has successfully implemented quality improvement initiatives. Her skills include designing and analyzing complex research data, preparing professional documentation, and adapting to fluctuating business demands. Vierra has also stabilized departments and reduced staff turnover rates in her previous roles.
Longstanding Commitment to Community Health
In addition to her role at Neighborhood Healthcare, Wendi Vierra has worked as a Behavioral Health Consultant at Community Health Group since 2002. This position highlights her longstanding commitment to improving community health outcomes and her extensive experience in behavioral health services. Her work emphasizes the importance of effective management in achieving positive health results for the communities she serves.