CLIENT DRIVEN.
FAMILY CENTERED.
COMMUNITY FOCUSED.
Our Mission
At Becket Maine, we believe every individual deserves the chance to live a better life. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to create opportunities for growth and healing through a team of inspired professionals—trusted, supported, and driven by compassion and creativity.
About Becket Maine
Becket Academy began in 1964 in East Haddam, Connecticut, founded by Marine Sergeant John J. Wolter, Ed.D. His vision was bold: to help adolescents struggling in traditional educational settings rediscover a “zest for life” and succeed in the “business of life.”
That vision sparked a movement. Today, under the leadership of his son, Jay T. Wolter, Becket has grown into a trusted name in residential treatment. In 2000, Jay opened The Becket House at Belgrade, our first Maine-based program—and we’ve been transforming lives ever since.
Why Choose Becket Maine?
We specialize in residential programs for children and young adults, providing safe, supportive environments for mental health treatment located in Belgrade, Litchfield, and Lewiston. Our leadership team brings decades of expertise and a passion for innovation in care.
When you choose Becket, you choose a partner committed to empowering youth and restoring hope. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Evidence-based, trauma-informed care that drives real results
- Options for specialized treatment for problem sexual behavior
- A proven track record of serving individuals with complex mental health and behavioral needs
- High staff-to-client ratios for personalized attention
- 24/7 clinical and nursing monitoring
- Comprehensive aftercare services for lasting success
- Leadership in innovative, person-centered approaches
Our Commitment
At Becket Maine, we don’t just provide treatment—we create a path forward. Every program is designed to help youth thrive, heal, and build the skills they need for a brighter future.
Becket continues to evolve, but our core values remain the same: compassion, creativity, and a relentless commitment to helping young people succeed.
Justin Gifford, Executive Director
Justin has been a dedicated member of the Becket team since 2000, bringing with him a solid foundation in community health and a passion for serving youth. Over more than two decades of leadership, he has built a strong professional network and developed deep insight into the unique challenges faced by the children and young adults served by Becket. In addition to his role at Becket, Justin leads the Child & Family Provider Network—a coalition of nonprofit organizations working collaboratively to enhance the well-being of children, youth, and families throughout Maine. Outside of work, Justin enjoys exploring Maine’s natural beauty with his family, whether hiking, skiing, or simply spending time outdoors.
Shaun Quimby, Clinical Director
Shaun Quimby, LCSW, has over 24 years of experience in intensive residential treatment and psychiatric settings. Starting as direct care staff in a small residential program, he later found his passion for residential and educational settings as a graduate student. Shaun holds a Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Maine at Farmington and a Master’s in Clinical Social Work from the University of New England.
His mission focuses on preventing harmful sexual and violent behaviors. Shaun has trained with leading experts in residential treatment, trauma, violence, problematic sexual behaviors, risk assessment, and evidence-based treatments. His expertise includes Aggression Replacement Training, Problem Sexual Behavior Treatment, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Feedback-Informed Treatment, Positive Psychology, and Risk/Threat Assessment.
Shaun presents at local and national conferences and provides consultation for agencies, schools, and stakeholders on complex cases. He is dedicated to collaborating with stakeholders to achieve positive outcomes for youth.
Lori Strout, Human Resources Coordinator
Lori joined Becket in November 2004, bringing over two decades of experience in customer service and operations from the banking industry. Her passion for working with people has been a driving force throughout her career. At Becket, Lori plays a vital role in supporting staff across Maine, assisting with payroll, benefits, and fostering a positive and supportive workplace culture. Her approachable nature and dedication to employee well-being make her a trusted resource for the team. Outside of work, Lori enjoys spending time with her family, exploring the outdoors, and discovering new places.
Kimberly Audet, Admissions & Quality Control
Kimberly Audet has been a vital part of the Becket Maine team since 2001, beginning her career as an assistant to the Clinical Director. Her exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail quickly distinguished her, leading to expanded responsibilities across multiple departments during a period of rapid company growth.
Over the years, Kim has taken the lead in admissions coordination and quality control, ensuring that Becket Maine maintains the highest standards of care and compliance. She also serves as the organization’s technology liaison, overseeing the implementation and management of the electronic health records system.
Kim’s versatility, reliability, and deep institutional knowledge make her a cornerstone of Becket Maine’s leadership team. Her commitment to excellence continues to shape the organization’s operational success.
Outside of work, Kim enjoys spending time with her family at the racetrack and embracing the outdoor lifestyle that Maine offers.
Jason Stevens, Program Director, Becket House at Belgrade
Jason Stevens is the Program Director of the Becket House at Belgrade. A graduate of Messalonskee High School in Oakland, Maine, and Johnson State College in Johnson, Vermont. Jason has dedicated 25 years to the mental health sector, with more than 17 of those years at Becket Maine. He is deeply connected to his community and is committed to fostering meaningful relationships that support youth and families.
Outside of work, Jason is family-focused and enjoys spending time with his wife, their two children, two Siberian huskies, and three cats. He also has a passion for traveling and staying active through exercise.
Fred French, Program Director Becket House at Litchfield
Fred began his Becket career in 2001 at the Belgrade House, playing a key role in launching the organization’s young adult program for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Over nearly 25 years, he has positively impacted countless youth and young adults through his mentorship and leadership. Fred is known for cultivating strong relationships with stakeholders across Maine and Connecticut, and for being a consistent role model to both clients and staff. His dedication and work ethic have helped shape the growth of Becket’s programs and culture.
Outside of work, Fred enjoys spending time with his family, watching his children play sports, and exploring Maine’s many outdoor activities.
Kerissa Hanson, Program Director, Becket House at Lewiston
Kerissa has pursued her passion of working with children at Becket since 2013. Over the last decade Kerissa supported in the opening and growth of the Lewiston program with the goal of assisting Maine’s youth. Kerissa has developed a compassionate team that strive to ensure the youth served feel safe and supported through their journey. Throughout her time with Becket, she has had the unique experience of becoming familiar with the needs of the Maine’s vulnerable teenage population and experienced with the education and mental health systems. Kerissa is also actively involved in her local community athletics both volunteering and coaching. She also enjoys traveling in her free time.


