On October 30, 2025, Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg announced the creation of the Office of Behavioral Health. This new office aims to improve the city’s response to mental health, substance use, and housing instability. The office, now part of the Mayor’s Office, will coordinate work across public health, housing, corrections, and public safety. The goal is to improve access to care and recovery support services for residents.
Mayor Greenberg said that moving behavioral health to the Mayor’s Office highlights the city’s focus on mental health. The office will prioritize permanent supportive housing, which combines affordable housing with support services. This model is part of the city’s plan to reduce chronic homelessness and help people with serious mental illness or substance use disorders.
Dr. Mariya Leyderman has been named Executive Director of Behavioral Health. She is a licensed clinical psychologist with experience in behavioral health and criminal justice. Dr. Leyderman previously led mental health programs at the Louisville Metro Department of Corrections. There, she started Kentucky’s first jail-based competency restoration program and developed wellness programs for inmates and staff…