The Guidance Center Executive and Leadership Team

Stevie Durkin, the Chief Executive Officer at The Guidance Center, directs the overarching strategic vision for this non-profit organization. Durkin manages the alignment of mental health service delivery with the evolving needs of the Southgate community and broader Michigan region. By coordinating with the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer ensures fiscal sustainability while expanding access to developmental disability resources. Stevie Durkin prioritizes the integration of evidence-based practices across all clinical programs to maximize patient outcomes. This leadership role involves cultivating partnerships with regional stakeholders to secure funding and support for critical community initiatives. Through rigorous oversight of organizational performance, the Chief Executive Officer maintains high standards of care. Durkin drives the long-term growth of the organization, ensuring that every resource directly benefits individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, thereby strengthening the impact of the entire service network.

Laura Huot, the President & Chief Executive Officer at The Guidance Center, governs the executive operations and mission execution for the organization. Huot architects the high-level policy framework that guides the delivery of mental health services throughout the Michigan service area. As the President & Chief Executive Officer, Huot collaborates with internal leadership to refine the operational model for supporting individuals with diverse disabilities. This role requires constant evaluation of market trends and community health requirements to ensure the organization remains a leader in the non-profit sector. Laura Huot champions the development of innovative care programs that address complex developmental needs. By fostering a culture of excellence and accountability, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that all departments remain focused on the core mission. Huot secures the future of the organization by driving sustainable growth and maintaining strong relationships with community partners and regional health authorities.

Gary Guetschow, the Chief Financial Officer at The Guidance Center, manages the fiscal health and budgetary integrity of the organization. Guetschow oversees all financial planning, reporting, and resource allocation to ensure the continued provision of mental health and disability services. The Chief Financial Officer directs the development of robust financial controls that protect the non-profit status while optimizing funding streams for community programs. Gary Guetschow analyzes economic data to forecast future needs, allowing the organization to scale operations effectively across the Michigan region. By coordinating with the executive team, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that every dollar supports the mission of helping individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Guetschow maintains transparency in all financial dealings, providing the necessary data for strategic decision-making. This leadership role involves rigorous management of assets and liabilities, ensuring the long-term stability required to serve the community effectively and reliably.

Jill Blackson, the Chief Operating Officer at The Guidance Center, executes the daily operational workflows that sustain the organization's clinical and support services. Blackson manages the internal infrastructure, ensuring that all departments function efficiently to meet the needs of individuals with mental health or developmental disabilities. The Chief Operating Officer drives process improvements that streamline service delivery across the Michigan service area. Jill Blackson coordinates with clinical leads to ensure that operational capacity matches the demand for specialized resources. This role involves overseeing the implementation of new technologies and administrative protocols that enhance organizational productivity. By monitoring key performance indicators, the Chief Operating Officer identifies opportunities for operational refinement and resource optimization. Blackson ensures that the organization maintains compliance with all regulatory standards while fostering a supportive environment for staff. Through this focus on operational excellence, the Chief Operating Officer directly supports the mission of providing high-quality care.

Washburn Child, the President at The Guidance Center, leads the external engagement and community outreach efforts for the organization. Child manages the relationships with key stakeholders, donors, and regional partners to advance the mission of supporting individuals with disabilities. The President drives the development of public awareness campaigns that highlight the importance of mental health resources in the Michigan community. Washburn Child collaborates with the executive team to ensure that the organization's public image aligns with its core values and operational goals. This role involves representing the organization at regional forums and advocating for policies that benefit the population served. By fostering strong community ties, the President ensures that the organization remains a trusted provider of essential services. Child focuses on expanding the reach of the organization, ensuring that resources are accessible to those in need. Through this leadership, the President strengthens the impact of the organization's programs.

William Warnes, the Chief Medical Officer at The Guidance Center, directs the clinical standards and medical protocols for all mental health and disability services. Warnes oversees the quality of care provided to patients, ensuring that all medical practices align with current industry standards and the specific needs of the population served. The Chief Medical Officer architects the clinical framework that supports individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities throughout the Michigan region. William Warnes collaborates with the executive team to integrate medical expertise into the broader organizational strategy. This role involves supervising clinical staff and ensuring that all treatment plans are evidence-based and effective. By maintaining rigorous oversight of medical outcomes, the Chief Medical Officer ensures that the organization delivers safe and compassionate care. Warnes drives the continuous improvement of clinical services, ensuring that the organization remains at the forefront of community-based mental health support and developmental resource provision.