DENVER (Dec. 3, 2021) — The Colorado Department of Human Services, Office of Behavioral Health (OBH) has announced that Dr. Victoria Trapp will become the new chief executive officer of the Colorado Mental Health Institute at Fort Logan (CMHIFL) effective Dec. 4. She has served as CMHIFL’s interim director since Aug. 2.
With 21 years of experience in behavioral health administration, Trapp recently served as the deputy director of programs at OBH and the chief operations officer at the Colorado Mental Health Institute at Pueblo (CMHIP). Over her career, she has developed evidence-based clinical programs for patients involved in the criminal justice system; launched equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives; and led efforts to recruit and retain qualified staff.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Trapp to her new role and know she will make an immediate impact at CMHIFL,” said Robert Werthwein, director of OBH. “Her experience in both clinical practices and organizational leadership will be key as CMHIFL expands its scope and mission for the state.”
A licensed clinical social worker, Trapp earned a doctorate in clinical psychology from University of the Rockies and a master’s degree in social work from Colorado State University. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Adams State University.
Trapp takes the helm as CMHIFL prepares to offer inpatient competency restoration services next year. In his Nov. 1 budget announcement, Gov. Jared Polis requested $10.4 million to hire 100 staff to open and operate 44 new forensic beds at CMHIFL in the fall of 2022. Today the hospital primarily serves patients who are ordered to inpatient care on a civil commitment.
With the 44 new beds, OBH aims to significantly reduce the backlog of pretrial detainees waiting in jail for competency services, which include forensic examinations and behavioral health treatment for those ordered to competency evaluations and restoration services, respectively. Currently inpatient restoration services can take place at CMHIP, one of three OBH-contracted, jail-based restoration programs or at a private hospital contracted by OBH.
Media contact:
Madlynn Ruble, Deputy Director of Communications
madlynn.ruble@state.co.us
303.866.3411