Heidi Martinez, Executive Director
Heidi Martinez serves as the Executive Director of Outback Strong. She brings a diverse background in behavioral health, with experience spanning both urban and rural communities.
Heidi earned her master’s degree in psychology from Antioch University in Seattle, Washington, with a dual focus in community mental health and couples and family therapy. Throughout her career, she has worked in major metropolitan areas, including Seattle and Denver, as well as in smaller communities such as Klamath Falls and Lakeview. While each setting offers unique strengths, Heidi values the strong sense of connection and cohesion found in rural communities.
Heidi founded Outback Strong to ensure continued access to behavioral health services in Lake County following the organization’s transition from its affiliation with the local hospital. She remains committed to that vision and is dedicated to expanding services to better support individuals and families in the community.
Erika Mendez, Office Manager
Erika Mendez has worked in the behavioral health field as an Office Manager for the past four years. She held this role prior to Outback Strong’s transition and continues to support the organization in this capacity today, bringing consistency and experience to the team.
Erika relocated to Lakeview in 2018 to raise her children in a rural community and be closer to family. Since then, she has developed a deep appreciation for both her work and the team she collaborates with each day.
Taylor Johnston, Behavioral Health Clinical Supervisor
Taylor Johnston serves as the Behavioral Health Clinical Supervisor. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the Oregon Institute of Technology and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Nevada, Reno. Taylor is also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC II) and has experience working across a range of mental health and substance use services.
Taylor is passionate about the impact of therapy and the importance of community connection in supporting overall well-being. She believes that everyone benefits from support at different points in life and values a collaborative, compassionate approach to care.
Taylor moved to Lakeview in 2018 and chose to remain in the community because of its strong sense of connection and the supportive environment it provides for families. She is committed to continuing to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals and families in the community.
Jackie Shuler, SUD Supervisor
Jackie Shuler serves as the Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Supervisor and is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC II). Originally from Florida, she grew up just minutes from the beach before relocating to Lakeview in 2016.
In 2017, Jackie returned to school to study psychology, which marked the beginning of her career in the behavioral health field. She began as a CADC intern in early 2019, later earning her CADC I and working as a facility patient navigator at the local hospital. Through dedication and continued professional growth, she advanced into her current supervisory role.
Jackie brings both professional expertise and personal understanding to her work, recognizing how deeply rooted substance use challenges can be. She is passionate about helping individuals feel seen, understood, and supported, and is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves.