GILLETTE, Wyo. — A Philadelphia native, Dr. Gilbert Smith, DO, joined Campbell County Health Behavioral Health Services this week.
With an extensive background in childhood psychiatry and substance use management, Smith will bring a unique perspective to CCH and fill a much-needed role in supporting the community’s mental health, the hospital said in a news release.
“I wanted to go back to rural healthcare because I saw there was such a need for mental health professionals in rural areas,” Smith said. “Especially in adolescence.”
Smith began his healthcare career at Drexel University and Southern Illinois University and continued to receive his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He later completed three years of residency at Larkin Community Hospital and fast-tracked into the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship Program at Larkins Community Hospital in Consortium with Nicklaus Children’s Hospital for two years.
While he has always had a passion for healthcare, Smith initially considered surgery and OB-GYN as specialties. His passion for psychiatry was sparked because of a research project he undertook on the topic of burnout of medical students. The need for mental health services and providers was evident to him; he knew he could make a profound difference on the lives of others through this specialty, the release states.
“The need for mental health providers in Northeast Wyoming is considerable,” Campbell County Health CEO Matt Shahan said. “Dr. Smith’s arrival is one step towards how CCH is meeting our community’s growing and evolving needs.”
Smith enjoys exercising, CrossFit, hanging out with friends, cooking and hiking in his spare time. He hopes to explore all of the natural beauty and wonders that Wyoming has to offer.
Smith will begin seeing patients on May 1. Prospective patients can schedule an appointment with Smith by calling Behavioral Health Services at 307-688-5000.
