Riverbend is pleased to announce the appointment of Audra Williams, MD, MPH, FASAM, as the organization’s new Medical Director, a key leadership role that will guide and strengthen medical care across Riverbend’s residential, outpatient, outreach, and recovery support programs.
Dr. Williams joins Riverbend with extensive experience in addiction medicine, primary care, and hospital-based treatment, bringing a deep commitment to compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals affected by substance use disorder. In her new role, she will oversee the agency’s medical services, support clinical quality and innovation, and work closely with staff and community partners to ensure individuals have access to safe, coordinated, and person-centered treatment.
“Riverbend’s mission has always been to meet people where they are and provide care that honors dignity and recovery,” said Michel Reinke, CEO at Riverbend. “Dr. Williams brings both clinical expertise and a strong belief in community-based care. Her leadership will help us continue to grow thoughtful, integrated medical services that support long-term recovery.”
Dr. Williams currently serves as Medical Director of Addiction Services at Lowell General Hospital, where she leads multidisciplinary teams providing inpatient and outpatient substance use disorder care. Throughout her career, she has helped build and expand bridge clinics, hospital consult services, and medication-assisted treatment programs that connect patients seamlessly from acute care to community recovery supports. She previously launched the first addiction consult service at Lawrence General Hospital and has led medical services in both hospital and outpatient settings.
Board-certified in both Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine, Dr. Williams holds a dual MD/MPH from Tufts University School of Medicine and is a Fellow of the American Society of Addiction Medicine. Her work has focused on improving access to care, reducing stigma, and strengthening systems that help people begin and sustain recovery.
“Through my work at the Bridge Clinic at Tufts Medicine Lowell General Hospital, I was able to work with Riverbend and directly see how they center compassion, relationships, and whole-person care,” said Dr. Williams. “Together, we will continue building pathways that make treatment accessible and recovery possible for everyone.”
As Riverbend continues to expand services across the Merrimack Valley, Dr. Williams’ leadership will support enhanced medical oversight, staff collaboration, and new opportunities to integrate health care and recovery supports, ensuring that clients receive comprehensive care at every stage of their journey.