Patti LaPlace

Patti LaPlace, MPA, RTC, currently holds the position of Lecturer at California State University Long Beach with the Recreation and Leisure Studies Department in the College of Health and Human Services.  Prior to this position, Patti was the Mental Health Coordinator with the City of Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services.  She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation and Leisure Studies from CSULB and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from California State University, Dominguez Hills.  Patti has worked in Mental Health for over 30 years and has been recognized for her work with the City of Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services, Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, California Park and Recreation Society, Recreation Therapy Section, Mental Health America, Long Beach Police Department and VA Long Beach Healthcare System.   In addition, she has done numerous presentations for CPRS, City or Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services, Long Beach Police Department, Long Beach City College, and other special interest groups in the greater Long Beach area. Patti LaPlace is participating in multidisciplinary research with American Goldstar Manor on a walking program with the residents; research which includes the programs of Kinesiology, Gerontology, Recreation Therapy, and Physical Therapy. She was appointed the Board Chair for the Mental Health America, Los Angeles Board of Directors in March 2019, serves as Quality of Life Chair for the City of Long Beach Age-Friendly Initiative project, and is on the Board of Directors for Alternative 4 Vets as well as a community volunteer for various non-profit and advocacy organizations. She will also be serving on the Mental Health Task Force for CHHS at the university as appointed by Dr. Terry Robertson.