Brian Dempsey, MA, QMHP

Brian Dempsey is an experienced Incident Management Specialist with the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services. With over a decade of professional experience in mental health, social services, and public safety, he is dedicated to ensuring the well-being and safety of the communities he serves. His expertise spans incident management, case coordination, and program supervision, with a strong focus on supporting individuals with behavioral health needs.

Prior to his current role, Brian worked in various mental health and social services positions, including Mental Health Skill Builder at Dominion Youth Services and Case Manager at Horizon Behavioral Health. In these roles, he guided clients in building essential skills to maintain independence, remain in their communities, and avoid unnecessary hospitalizations. He also served as Support Services Manager at Patrick Henry Family Services, overseeing case management, admissions processes, and program operations.

Brian began his career in public safety as a State Police Trooper II with the Virginia State Police, where he enforced state laws across Appomattox and Amherst. This experience provided him with a strong foundation in crisis response, risk assessment, and community engagement, which continues to inform his work in behavioral health today.

He earned a Master of Arts in Human Services and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, both from Liberty University. Brian combines his academic knowledge with hands-on experience to provide thoughtful, client-centered support, helping individuals navigate challenges and achieve their goals in a safe, structured, and supportive environment.

Outside of his professional life, Brian enjoys activities that challenge him both physically and mentally. He is passionate about obstacle course racing, exercising, camping, and fishing, finding these activities rejuvenating and essential for maintaining balance. Brian’s dedication to personal growth and well-being mirrors his professional philosophy, allowing him to approach each day with energy, focus, and a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

• Master of Arts (MA), Human Services – Liberty University, 2008
• Bachelor of Arts (BA), Psychology – Liberty University, 2006

• QMHP (Qualified Mental Health Professional)