OAKTON, VA (November 1, 2022) —Mental health professional Laura Fonner was promoted to chief clinical officer at PRS, a leading behavioral health nonprofit serving Virginia and beyond. Fonner is taking over for Mary Brown, who retired after 35 years of exemplary service with PRS.

“Laura has been a major contributor in helping serve our clients and growing services. This well-deserved promotion will ensure that Mary Brown, who is retiring after several decades of outstanding leadership, and her contributions will be continued and expanded upon,” explained Joseph Getch, CEO, PRS. “We thank Mary for her commitment and welcome Laura to this new role.”

As chief clinical officer, Fonner will provide leadership, direction, and oversight for PRS’ clinical and rehabilitation programs that serve people in Northern Virginia living with serious mental illnesses, mild intellectual disabilities, substance use disorders,  and anyone who faces life crises.  Her work will help ensure the thousands of people served by PRS can increase their independence and self-sufficiency and lead fulfilling lives.

Prior to her promotion, Fonner served as PRS’ regional director of Community Support Services. She is a licensed professional counselor and Virginia Board approved clinical supervisor with over 25 years of experience working in the behavioral health industry.  Fonner joined PRS as a clinical supervisor in 2018 and was promoted regional director in 2019.  Under her leadership, PRS’ Community Support Services Program has expanded significantly and is recognized by key stakeholders as having the highest level of quality and reliability.

“I am excited to be moving into this new role and to work with our talented staff offering an array of quality services that change and save lives every day.  My vision for PRS’ programs is to continue to build on our collaborative, caring nature and to remain the ‘go to’ organization for so many in our expanding service area,” said Laura Fonner, chief clinical officer, PRS.

Prior to joining PRS, Fonner was executive director of Homeward Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs, Colorado which operates outpatient substance abuse treatment, residential transitional living, and permanent supportive housing programming.  She also served as a therapist in several different clinical programs with the Prince William County Community Services Board before moving to Colorado.

About PRS, Inc.

PRS is a leading nonprofit helping those living with serious mental health issues and anyone who faces life crises achieve independence and self-sufficiency. PRS provides people they serve with skill training and support to help them recover and rebuild their lives through programs such as: Recovery Academy Day Programs and Community Readiness Support Program, Community Support Services, Employment Services, Peer Support Services, Community Housing, Coordinated Specialty Care and CrisisLink—a 24/7 phone, text and chat hotline. www.prsinc.org. For 24/7 support from CrisisLink, call 988 or visit https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/.