Gariy Livshits

Gariy Livshits has a diverse background in social work, creative arts therapy, and music. With over two decades of experience, Gariy has honed his skills through various roles and with diverse populations. Originally from Belarus, Gariy started his career at FEGS Continuing Day Treatment Program as a social worker and music therapist. He then progressed to becoming an intensive case manager at the New York State Office of Mental Health Manhattan Psychiatric Center, where he provided rehabilitative and restorative services to individuals with severe mental illness, dual diagnoses, and forensic backgrounds. Later on, Gariy excelled as a treatment team leader, overseeing Intensive Psychiatric and Sex Offender Units. 

In addition to his extensive experience in the mental health field, Gariy also served as a senior housing associate at the New York State Office of Addictions Services and Supports. In this role, he managed a portfolio of voluntary housing agencies and implemented effective standards and methods. He later returned to the Manhattan Psychiatric Center, where he worked as a treatment team leader in the Quality/Risk Management department, as a Program Evaluation Specialist at the New York State Psychiatric Institute, and currently as a coordinator for Forensic Intensive Case Management Services at the NYS OMH, Central New York Psychiatric Center. In addition, Gariy also serves as an Adjunct Instructor at Syracuse University School of Social Work and the University of Kentucky COSW. Gary also provides field instruction to students from various parts of the country.

In addition to his professional work, Gariy is passionate about giving back to his community. In his spare time, he works at Ohel Children’s Home and Family Services, providing invaluable support to needy children and families. 

Gariy holds a Bachelor of Music degree in choral conducting and piano performance from Molodechno School of Music in Belarus, a BA in general music from the City College of New York, a master’s in music therapy from Illinois State University, and an MSW from CUNY Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College. He is pursuing his DSW at the University of Kentucky with a concentration in Higher Education and is expected to graduate in May 2025.