Cheryl Accardi, LCSW

Director of Clinical and Behavioral Services

Cheryl joined the Opengate leadership team early in 2023. Her experience encompasses direct work with people with developmental disabilities, program management, and quality improvement, all of which she applies in her role at Opengate. As Director of Clinical and Behavioral Services, she oversees the day habilitation and residential services admissions process, develops behavior plans, and handles staff training, as well as provides clinical services including assessments, crisis interventions, and more.

Cheryl has worked in many social service realms, spanning leadership roles at a homeless shelter, multi-service social service agency, and community mental health clinic. She’s supported people with developmental disabilities, veterans, and children and families. Her background also includes serving as director of quality improvement for an agency with over 20 programs, and she enjoys putting systems into place that make it easier for teams to do good work. Cheryl began her career working in the New York City child welfare system.

She loves her role in supporting the people at Opengate. Cheryl shares,

“My colleagues at Opengate are wonderful, dedicated people with a level of professionalism and compassion that make me truly appreciate being here.”


Credentials

LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker)

Master of Social Work (MSW), Yeshiva University, 1993 

Bachelor of Arts (BA), Psychology, Hamilton College, 1988

Developing Leaders Training Program, Columbia University

Non-Profit Management Certification, Fordham University/NY Medical College