Christopher Menschner, MSW, MA, is the director of complex care programs at the Center for Health Care Strategies (CHCS). In this role, he oversees CHCS’ projects focused on the design and implementation of integrated, person-centered care for adults with a mix of significant physical, behavioral health, and social challenges. His work largely focuses on improving care for people struggling with substance use issues by supporting the implementation of innovative care models, harm reduction strategies, and cross-sector collaboration.

Most recently, Christopher served as the assistant commissioner for the Division of HIV, STD, and TB Services at the New Jersey Department of Health. In this role, he oversaw the division’s programming and budget and led the development and implementation of New Jersey’s strategic plan to end the HIV epidemic, as well as the state’s harm reduction expansion strategy.

Prior to the New Jersey Department of Health, Christopher was a senior program officer at CHCS, where he led a national initiative focused on identifying best practices for implementing trauma-informed approaches in the health care sector.  Christopher began his career as a counselor and case manager, working with adults with mental health and substance use issues at community mental health centers in Trenton, New Jersey, and draws on that early experience regularly in his policy and program development work.

Christopher holds master’s degrees in social work and public policy from Monmouth University where he has also served as an adjunct professor of social work. He earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Rutgers University.

Outside of work, Christopher enjoys time with his wife and four children. He enjoys hanging out with his kids above all else and attending their many youth activities. He also enjoys eating at great restaurants with his wife, attending live music events, playing and coaching basketball, and passionately rooting for the Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles.