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NCG Leadership

Our NCG Leadership team has many years of expertise in the behavioral health field.
Their guidance, supervision, and insights have allowed NCG to be successful for 25 years.

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Frank Valentine, MS, CSAC

VP of Operations

I have been a part of our wonderful NCG family for the past 20 years. My background in cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational enhancement drives my work with clients in need. I have a strong passion for working with our counselors and community partners to make a difference in the lives of people we touch. I love rocking to Springsteen, working on cars, spending time with family, dogs AND cats, reading fiction, working out, and antiquing. I have long been dreaming about being on the reality show "Survivor!"

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David Gilbert, MPA, QMHP-A&C

Director of Business Operations

Since joining the NCG family in 2016 and beginning my mental health career in 2003 in Virginia and New York, I've engaged in a wide array of sectors, including inpatient and outpatient care, crisis services, homeless outreach, and comprehensive community services for individuals and families of all ages. My roles have included managing apartment programs and directing a co-ed 24/7 congregate care community. My academic journey began at a community college and has since included earning a BSW from Lehman College, an MPA from Virginia Tech, and currently pursuing a doctoral degree at the University of Southern California. As Director of Business Operations, I leverage my extensive experience to ensure there are no barriers to services for those we serve. Behind the scenes, I am an advocate for mental health at micro, mezzo, and macro levels, striving to improve the mental health system for everyone. Beyond my professional life, I cherish cats, enjoy sports and movies, and while I love all music, I am at the end of the day, a metalhead.

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Nakkia Brickhouse, LCSW, RPT-S

State Director of Manassas, Fredericksburg, Richmond, Petersburg, Norfolk, Suffolk, and Belle Haven Sites

I have been with NCG since June, 2008. I started out as a Community Based Counselor II, then became a clinical supervisor, and an Assistant Site Director at the Virginia Beach site. I obtained my B.S. from Old Dominion University and my MSW degree from Norfolk State University. I am in the process of becoming a registered play therapist, and have started the Crisis Stabilization Program for children and adults at the Virginia Beach site. I also enjoy reading and watching movies.

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Holly Smith, LPC

State Director of Martinsville, Danville, Roanoke, Lynchburg, Christiansburg, Harrisonburg, Winchester, and Charlottesville sites.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a diverse background treating mental health and substance abuse disorders in multiple settings. I received my Master's degree in Counselor Education with an emphasis in community and addiction from The College of William & Mary in 2007. I have worked in emergency services and crisis intervention for three different Virginia community services boards before coming to NCG. Since 2010, I have been supervising and managing community-based programs in Southwest Virginia and beyond. During my time with NCG, I have served as a Clinical Supervisor, Site Director, Area Clinical Director, and now State Director. My interests include clinical supervision, program management, and leadership, as well as recruiting and training future human services professionals. My true passion is training and guiding the next generation of counselors to help the growing mental health needs in the communities we serve.

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