Howard Center Appoints Bianca Blaikner as Chittenden Clinic Director

"A woman with long dark hair, wearing a gray blazer over a black and white polka dot top, stands smiling in front of a brick wall covered in green ivy

Burlington, VT— Howard Center is pleased to announce the appointment of Bianca Blaikner, MA, LCMHC, LADC, as the new Director of the Chittenden Clinic. Blaikner, a dually licensed Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder clinician, has served as the Clinical Director of the Chittenden Clinic since August 2022. She brings over six years of clinical supervisory and management experience, with a background spanning various settings including correctional facilities, supported living programs, and outpatient-based opioid treatment programs.

“We are thrilled to welcome Bianca Blaikner as the new Director of Chittenden Clinic. Her extensive experience and dedication to client-centered care make her an invaluable addition to our team,” said Howard Center’s Chief Client Services Officer Beth Holden.

“As we continue to respond to the growing needs of our community, Bianca’s leadership will be crucial in guiding the clinic,” Holden said.

Bianca is actively involved in state leadership roles, currently serving as the President of the Vermont Addiction Professionals’ Association and Vice President of the Vermont Substance Use Treatment Collaborative.

“I am excited to lead Chittenden Clinic into its next chapter. Our focus will remain on delivering high-quality, evidence-based treatment for opioid use disorder, while continually improving our services to meet the evolving needs of our clients and the broader community,” said Blaikner.

The Chittenden Clinic in South Burlington, Vermont, offers outpatient treatment and pharmacotherapy for individuals with opioid use disorder. The clinic provides a comprehensive range of medical, therapeutic, and care management services, including medically supervised withdrawal, on-site medical services, individual and group counseling, psychiatric services, and care coordination with other providers.

Bianca Blaikner officially began her role as the Director on July 22, 2024. She will continue to lead the clinic in delivering high-quality client care and advancing best practices in the treatment of opioid use disorder.

Howard Center helps people and communities thrive by providing supports and services to address mental health, substance use, and developmental needs.