FRONTLINE HEROES
Healthcare providers that have gone above and beyond to deliver digitally-enabled care
Christina Gerdes
Co-Founder + Chief Medical Officer
Willow Health
Dr. Gerdes is a double board-certified adult psychiatrist and addiction medicine specialist interested in systems of care, recovery-based practices, healthcare administration, and innovation. She completed her medical doctorate at George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Science with a focus in community health. She is a graduate of the Adult Psychiatry Residency and Public Psychiatry Fellowship at Columbia University. Dr. Gerdes is an innovative physician leader experienced in driving the development and implementation of modern behavioral health and substance use treatment programs including collaborative care, crisis care, and alternative payment arrangements.
Q: What motivates you to continue working towards change each day?
A: Mental health crises are some of the hardest times in our lives, and the current system of care can exacerbates those challenges. We work to build a world where anyone can access high quality, personalized care, empowering them through recovery.
Q: What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of from 2023?
A: In 2023 my company Willow Health, launched our virtual behavioral health crisis care program in New York. Since opening, we've completed over 2000 visits helping individuals experiencing behavioral health crisis build back their lives.
