Riverbend is pleased to announce the appointments of Rachel LaBarge, MSW, LADC I, as Clinical Director, and Efrin Cotto as Program Director of our Tower Hill residential treatment program in Lawrence, further strengthening the organization’s leadership across its residential addiction treatment programs.
Rachel LaBarge joins Riverbend with extensive experience in substance use disorder treatment across the full continuum of care, including detoxification, clinical stabilization, and residential services. Most recently serving as Program Director at Volunteers of America Massachusetts, she has led multidisciplinary teams, overseen clinical operations, and implemented evidence-based approaches including Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), trauma-informed care, and harm reduction strategies. Her background also includes clinical leadership roles at Beth Israel Lahey Health Behavioral Services, where she supervised staff and supported individuals in early recovery.
Efrin Cotto brings more than two decades of experience in residential programming, education, and youth development. Most recently serving as Assistant Residential Director at Pelham Academy, he has extensive experience supporting residential staff, ensuring program safety, and fostering structured environments that promote growth and stability. His background includes leadership roles in residential treatment programs and over 15 years as an educator and athletic director within Lowell public charter schools, where he focused on student engagement, behavior management, and program development. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Cotto is deeply committed to building relationships and supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds.
“Rachel and Efrin both bring strong leadership, deep compassion, and a commitment to supporting individuals in meaningful ways,” said Michel Reinke, CEO of Riverbend. “Their diverse backgrounds and shared dedication to creating safe, structured, and supportive environments will enhance the quality of care we provide across our residential programs.”