Mental health treatment

Chief Executive Officer

Cory Cooper

With over 15 years of experience in behavioral health, Cory Cooper, CEO of STR, brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to supporting underserved communities. He holds a BA in Psychology from Temple University and an MBA from La Salle University.

Cory’s passion for helping others began at an adolescent treatment facility in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, where he first worked with diverse populations facing autism, mental health challenges, intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), and substance use disorders.

Since joining STR Behavioral Health in 2013 as Director of Operations, Cory has been pivotal in establishing one of the Northeast’s first extended care providers. His leadership focuses on building relationships and driving mission-driven action. Outside work, Cory enjoys quality time with his wife, three young children, and their dog, Dinky.

Senior Director of Clinical Services

Manny Rivera, MA, LPC, NCC

Manny is the Sr. Director of Clinical Services for STR Behavioral Health and has over ten years of experience in the treatment of substance abuse and co-occurring disorders. Manny graduated from Rutgers University in 2008 with an undergraduate degree in Psychology and in 2011 completed his Graduate degree from La Salle University with a Masters in Clinical/ Counseling Psychology. Throughout his educational experience, Manny had worked in various clinical settings providing treatment to adolescent populations struggling with various Social Skills Deficits ranging from Autistic Spectrum Disorder to Conduct Disorder. In addition to this, over the last 10+ years, Manny has been providing treatment to those struggling with SUD and other related disorders. In terms of approach, both as a director and clinician, Manny implements a strategy in understanding the capacity for human relationships as being both rewarding and challenging. Early on in his education, his Professor said, “You cannot hope to know yourself (or anyone else) without understanding how the love-loss dynamic plays out in your life.” This has been a template for his experience of the work in developing relationships with people in order to invoke growth through social situations; while incorporating an understanding of one’s own issues of transference and counter-transference that often gets lost in most relationships where growth can occur.

Executive Director

Maryanna Staerk, MPH, MBA, RDN, MCHES

Maryanna Staerk has dedicated ten years to the mental health field, ignited by her impactful experience at an inpatient psychiatric facility. Witnessing the rapid transformation in individuals’ mental health inspired her passion. As a registered dietitian, she integrates nutrition awareness into her practice, recognizing the vital link between food and overall wellness. Maryanna embodies inclusive leadership, championing diversity and celebrating individual strengths. She leads with unwavering passion, positivity, and a relentless curiosity for growth.

Fulfilling a lifelong aspiration, Maryanna spearheaded the opening of Pennsylvania’s inaugural mental health primary adult residential facility. Her visionary leadership and extensive clinical expertise enrich the STR Cedar Creek team. With over a decade of leadership experience, Maryanna is committed to advancing mental health care and fostering holistic well-being.

Executive Director

Matthew Bartos MSW, LCSW, CAADC

Matthew Bartos has been active in Substance Use Treatment for close to six years. He started his career at Little Creek Lodge, a 90-day inpatient program for adult males, in Hamlin, PA. During his time with Little Creek he worked many positions from Residential Care Worker and ending his time there as the Director of Operations. While working, Matt obtained his Masters of Social Work from Marywood University and is currently set to complete his Masters of Public Administration in December of 2019. He is the active President of Speak Up for Ben, a non-profit based in Bethlehem, PA which focuses on helping family members who are experiencing grief due to the stigmatized death of a loved one. Matt is also the acting Northeast Divisional Chair of the Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). As regional chair it is his responsibility to advocate for the Social Work profession as well as all the NASW members in the Northeastern Counties of Pennsylvania. Matt joined the team of Civiq Health as the Executive Director of Silver Pines because of his commitment to helping those with Substance Use Disorder and their families. Matt is deeply aligned with our client-centered approach and is excited to bring his expertise and team-centric nature to the management team. His background as a Social Worker adds a unique layer to our clients’ experience as well Matt’s management style. Working with marginalized and disenfranchised persons has become Matt’s passion and he looks forward to continuing his mission of creating systems whereby both clients and co-workers can experience support and lives of purpose.