Gerald F. Skillings, Psy.D.
Senior Vice President, Behavioral Health and Homeless Services
Active in the Philadelphia behavioral health community since 1977, Jerry Skillings is a well-respected leader and dedicated service provider in his role as Senior Vice President of Behavioral Health Services and Homeless Services at Horizon House. From the beginning of his career, Jerry has recognized that people with serious behavioral health disorders or those who are homeless may not have many—or any—resources to help them when they are confronted with significant struggles. “I am proud to say that we at Horizon House provide this support, and I know how important it is to people.”
In the past, Jerry served in senior executive positions managing behavioral health services in the public sector. But he acknowledges that he has been inspired by the ability of the nonprofit behavioral health field to develop a large range of programs that continue to evolve into new and better services for a diverse disadvantaged community. Before joining Horizon House, Jerry directed and developed clinical programs in hospitals, community mental health centers, and managed care organizations. Although his background is primarily in clinical services and administration, he also is an expert in program development, performance management and improvement, and innovative practices.
At Horizon House, Jerry has broadened and enhanced programs for disabled and homeless people with his expertise in clinical services, recovery philosophy and practice, case management, program development, and homeless services. But when asked about the highlight of his career with the agency, he says it “was hiring a participant who worked his way from homelessness to school to a job with us. This is what it’s all about.”
In addition to his current work, Jerry holds a number of volunteer leadership positions. He is a member of the Board of Trustees for Norristown State Hospital, President of his local civic association, and honorary Board member of the Rehabilitation and Community Providers Association. He is also Past President of the Pennsylvania Community Providers Association and The Alliance of Community Service Providers.
Jerry earned his B.A. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Michigan and received his Psy.D. from Yeshiva University.