In 1920, the Riggs Clinic, considered the forerunner to Berkshire mental health services, was established at the House of Mercy Hospital on North Street (now Berkshire Medical Center). Known then as the Mental Hygiene and Neurological Clinic, it was largely funded by the Riggs Foundation, with the hospital providing space.

By 1924, Dr. Riggs expanded services to include a child guidance clinic at the same location. That same year, a second mental hygiene clinic opened in Great Barrington at Russell House, marking one of the earliest expansions of community-based behavioral health services in the region. Together, these clinics logged over 1,000 visits in a single year—demonstrating both growing need and community trust.

Beginning in the 1950s, increased state, federal, and local funding fueled significant growth across Berkshire County. Over the decades, the organization evolved to meet the changing needs of the community:

• 1958: Became Berkshire Mental Health Association
• 1965: Became Berkshire Mental Health Center
• 1995: Merged with Northern Berkshire Counseling Center
• 1997: Merged with Berkshire Council on Alcoholism and Addictions
• 2003: Renamed The Brien Center for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services in honor of Ray Brien

Ray Brien, who served as Executive Director for more than 20 years, envisioned a comprehensive, community-based behavioral health system accessible to all. His leadership helped shape the organization into what it is today.

The early work of the Riggs Clinic laid the foundation for a county-wide commitment to accessible, community-based mental health and addiction services—principles that continue to guide the Brien Center.

Today & Tomorrow

Today, the Brien Center is actively working to create a more visible, centralized campus in Pittsfield—making it easier for individuals and families of all ages to access high-quality, affordable mental health and addiction services.

As the largest and most comprehensive community behavioral health provider in Berkshire County, we remain focused on:

• Expanding access to care
• Reducing stigma around mental health and substance use
• Supporting individuals and families across all stages of life
• Strengthening the overall health of our community

Building on more than a century of service, we are committed to a future where everyone has access to the care and support they need.