Dr. Brandy Harrell is a nationally recognized expert in behavioral health, dedicated to transforming access to mental health and substance use treatment, particularly in rural communities. As the Founder and Executive Director of Journeys to Success, she leads innovative initiatives that dismantle stigma, expand care, and advocate for justice-involved individuals. As a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, Certified Clinical Supervisor, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Doctoral Addictions Counselor, and US DOT Qualified Substance Abuse Professional, she brings a wealth of expertise to her work.

Dr. Harrell is deeply committed to serving rural communities and has conducted published research on the underutilization of mental health services. She works tirelessly to decrease stigma surrounding mental health and substance use treatment, collaborating with government officials and the judiciary to expand access to care for justice-involved individuals. She served as the 8th District Opioid Response Project Team Lead for Lenoir County, sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC.

As a Behavioral Health Strategist, Dr. Harrell partners with Federally Qualified Health Centers to develop policies and procedures for Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), Substance Abuse Intensive Outpatient programs (SAIOP), and DWI interventions. She also served as a treatment provider and consultant for the Family Accountability and Recovery Court.

Dr. Harrell has successfully written grant proposals securing several million dollars in funding for opioid treatment, integrated behavioral health, opioid impact initiatives, whole-person care, and substance use treatment for Family Accountability and Recovery Courts in rural Eastern North Carolina. Additionally, she has led the design and implementation of jail-based behavioral health services, expanding access to treatment within correctional facilities and integrating comprehensive care models for incarcerated individuals.

Her expertise is recognized at the national level, as she serves as the Behavioral Health expert for the National Rural Justice Collaborative. Dr. Harrell also holds public office as a Councilwoman for the Town of Winterville, further amplifying her advocacy for systemic change in community health and justice reform.

Associations

• National Association of Forensic Counselors
• National Association of Social Workers
• National Association for Addiction Professionals
• National Association of Drug Court Professionals
• National Association of Health Care Centers