60 seconds with Elizabeth Woike, MSW ’04

By Rebecca Rudell

When Elizabeth Woike, MSW ’04, began at Lake Shore Behavioral Health (now BestSelf Behavioral Health) as an intern in 2002, she had no idea she’d rise to the position of president and CEO of the largest community-based behavioral health organization serving people of all ages in Western New York.

After earning her undergraduate degree, Woike spent a year in Costa Rica on a Fulbright Scholarship; two years in Gabon, Africa, in the Peace Corps; and finally, returned home to earn her master’s degree from the UB School of Social Work and further her career. In 2023, she was presented with the school’s Distinguished Alumni Award. Devoted to and passionate about mental health, she remains deeply committed to the field, optimistic about its future and eager to witness its ongoing evolution.

How has the conversation around mental health changed over the years?

The conversation around mental health has evolved significantly, with stigma decreasing and people, especially younger generations, feeling more comfortable discussing it. Public figures and social media have helped normalize these discussions, while workplaces, schools, and communities now prioritize mental well-being. Access to resources like telehealth and apps has also expanded, making support more accessible.

Has treatment evolved?

Definitely. There are much more effective, evidence-based and holistic treatments available now. But one of the most significant things is that treatment is no longer siloed. Of the people we see, 70% have co-occurring disorders. Previously, individuals would have to go to multiple agencies, as cross training didn’t exist. It was very chaotic. With innovations in the system, like Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics and other integrated care models, patients can often get all the care they need under one roof–even some medical care until they can link to a primary care doctor–which really helps them get into and stay in recovery. Before, therapists couldn’t talk about physical health or homelessness. That’s really changed.

What do you think is the most important thing for people to know about mental health?

The most important thing to know about mental health is that recovery is absolutely possible, and effective treatment is available. We offer a wide range of programs designed to meet people where they are—whether it's therapy, crisis services, or support for specific needs like addiction or trauma. Our mission is to help individuals move toward living their best lives and truly being their best selves. No one has to face mental health challenges alone—there is help, and there is hope.

What’s the biggest misconception about mental health that you’d like to clear up?

That issues with mental health are a weakness or that you brought it on yourself. Or that it’s rare. One in four people will have a depressive episode in their lifetime. It’s very common. There could be a genetic component, an environmental component, a trauma history. So it should be treated like any other health condition, in a holistic manner that I believe deserves full reimbursement by health insurance.

How can people support loved ones who may be struggling with mental health issues?

Try to have an open conversation; don’t be judgmental when someone comes to you with their thoughts and feelings. Just listen, just be with them. Pay attention to signs and symptoms, such as severe sleep disturbances, ongoing depression or hopelessness, anxiety that interferes with functioning, or, of course, thoughts of harming themself or someone else. Those are times when it’s really important to encourage that person to seek help. There’s a lot of community awareness and training now, including Mental Health First Aid, where you can get trained in how to talk and listen to people, identify early signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use, and help them find the assistance they need. BestSelf offers free training like this, as do other agencies in the area.

What role does community support play in maintaining mental wellness?

Our society is very isolating these days, so setting up a community for yourself, whatever that looks like for you, whether it’s work, family, spiritual, etc., is incredibly important.

How can workplaces promote better mental health for their employees?

Many companies offer employee assistance programs and truly cultivates a sense of community and belonging. Health care first aid training I mentioned would also be beneficial. And making sure employees are aware of the signs of mental health conditions or substance use issues.

What is a simple practice anyone can use to support their own mental well-being?

There are so many! A great practice is taking a few minutes every day to cultivate gratitude. To take a look at what’s going well in your life and leverage the strengths you have to make changes in other parts of your life.

How do you personally manage stress or practice self-care in your daily life?

I take time for myself like spending time with friends and family, doing enjoyable activities, exercise, yoga and vacations. One thing that can be challenging in our society is that to give yourself a break. I try to have grace and compassion for myself, and not talk to myself in a berating way, and that can extend out to others through a love and kindness practice.

What gives you hope for the future of mental health awareness and treatment?

In addition to the stigma of mental health being reduced, there are so many things. There are really motivated people coming into the field who want to make a difference and move the conversation forward. At BestSelf, I see a lot of people from the community who didn’t have the opportunity to get a degree, so we work with them to get peer certification, then an associate’s degree, etc. as they move forward in their career pathway. Seeing people motivated to do that–especially people in recovery themselves–is very inspiring. So, I’m very hopeful. You gotta be!