LLU Behavioral Medicine Center Therapist is Named a Health Advocate of Year

A Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center employee was rfecently honored by the San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health as Behavioral Health Community Advocate of the Year, a university spokeswoman announced Friday.

Daniel Tapanes was among 125 individuals from San Bernardino County who were nominated, Briana Pastorino of Loma Linda University said.

Tapanes is a lead clinical therapist at LLUBMC for youth outpatient programs, Pastorino said. He accepted the award on May 24 at an event put on by the county Department of Behavioral Health.

Tapanes is also a licensed marriage and family therapist, Pastorino said. He developed a specialized behavioral health treatment track for medically complex children, the Mastering Each New Direction program.

Tapanes also works with Loma Linda University Children's Hospital specialty teams to identify children in need, and to collaborate with and support the medical team, Pastorino said.

"Daniel has focused on a population that is so vulnerable and in need," said Lauren Ball, administrative director of Social Services and Outpatient Youth Services at LLUBMC, who nominated Daniel.

"I see his heart go out to his young patients, and I see him rejoice in their successes," Ball said. "To have the Department of Behavioral Health recognize how special his gift is and how huge his heart is shines a light, not only on Daniel, but also on the children, the entire team, and also the BMC’s mission to touch the lives and families of those we treat."

In addition to his work with Loma Linda University, Tapanes is clinical director/administrator at Clear View Treatment Center and an adjunct faculty at University of Redlands School of Education and Counseling. He has been dedicated to children's behavioral health for 24 years, Pastorino said.

Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center is located in Redlands.