Rachael brings over 20 years of experience advancing behavioral health, healthcare, disability, and education policy, as well as systems transformation efforts. 

As an Associate Principal at BBS, Rachael supports government agencies in strengthening behavioral health systems of care through strategic planning, project management, and interagency initiatives. Prior to joining BBS, Rachael served as Director of Research and Policy Development at Public Policy Partners, where she led successful legislative and regulatory initiatives that expanded healthcare workforce capacity, secured enhanced reimbursement for healthcare providers, and secured substantial new investments in school health services. Rachael also served in leadership positions across Maryland state government, including Director of Government Affairs and Communications for the Behavioral Health Administration, helping lead the agency's creation and the integration of mental health and substance use disorder services, and Director of Interagency Affairs and Education Policy for the Maryland Department of Disabilities, advancing cross-agency initiatives and policies to improve outcomes for individuals with disabilities.

In 2020, the Maryland Daily Record named Rachael among their annual VIP List - Very Important Professionals Successful by 40 for her advocacy in promoting school health services as part of the state’s education reform efforts. 

Rachael holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, with a specialization in Social Action and Community Development.