Listen, Mental Health Matters: Gene Cavallo, Valleywise Health

In the 12th episode of “Listen, Mental Health Matters” podcast series, Brian Giebink, HDR’s behavioral and mental health practice lead, travels to Phoenix, with guest host Tara Brown, HDR health principal, to explore Valleywise Health’s pivotal role as Maricopa County’s safety net for behavioral healthcare. Valleywise Senior Vice President of Behavioral Health Services Gene Cavallo shares his personal journey from direct care to leadership and how Valleywise has grown from a single facility to more than 400 beds while championing integrated care. Discover the hospital’s rich legacy — from its roots in the early 1900s to leading initiatives like first-episode psychosis programs and one of the nation’s largest psychiatry residency programs. Learn how Valleywise is addressing stigma, expanding access and shaping the future of behavioral health across Arizona.

Subscribe

Featured on this Episode

Brian Giebink is the behavioral and mental health practice lead. He has served as the mental health expert on numerous projects around the world and is passionate about creating transformational mental health facilities that foster recovery, independence and a sense of community. He believes that listening is the first step toward shaping a better future for mental health care.

Gene Cavallo is the senior vice president of behavioral health services for Valleywise Health in Phoenix. He has spent his entire career spanning more than 30 years working in the behavioral health field in Arizona. A licensed professional counselor, Gene holds degrees from the University of Notre Dame and Arizona State University.

Credits: Produced by Danny Sullivan and Bridget Roe. Special thanks to Ashley Tucker and Troy Parks.