Since its founding in 1974, Southampton-based Growth Opportunity Center has been a cornerstone of mental health support for many individuals and families in southeastern Pennsylvania. What began as a grassroots initiative in Huntingdon Valley has evolved into one of Bucks County’s largest and most respected mental health centers.
Today, GOC continues to grow — both in size and in the scope of services it offers — while staying true to its mission: transforming life’s challenges into opportunities for growth.
A Legacy of Service and Vision for the Future
GOC was established with a simple but powerful belief: that every individual has the potential for growth, even in the face of adversity. This philosophy, championed by founder Dr. Kenneth Barber, remains at the heart of the organization’s work. Throughout the years, GOC has expanded its reach across Bucks, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties and beyond, serving children, adolescents, adults, and families with compassion and professionalism.
Recently, GOC underwent a period of significant transformation with an eye on the future. Most notably, the organization embarked on the process of hiring a new Executive Director, Judy Morrissey, LCSW, who brings a fresh vision and dynamic energy. Morrissey is committed to building partnerships, ensuring programming reflects community needs, and generating meaningful impact.
“I’m honored to carry forward the legacy of those who shaped GOC with vision and heart,” said Morrissey. “Plus, I’m grateful to work alongside such talented and dedicated leaders and clinicians every single day.”
GOC has also introduced a refreshed logo and website as part of its evolution.
“As we embrace change, our logo and website have been reimagined to better represent who we are today,” said Morrissey.
Even the offices have a fresh new look to match the energy of GOC’s new chapter. The space is now designed to create a more inspiring and welcoming environment.
The Core of What Sets GOC Apart
With nearly three decades of dedicated service to GOC, Dr. Diane Sizer, a seasoned psychologist and Clinical Director, recently reflected on what makes GOC so special. It may seem ironic to look outward when so much of what makes GOC special is embodied by Dr. Sizer herself. At the heart of GOC is a team of staff and providers whose dedication goes far beyond clinical expertise — they lead with compassion, empathy, and a deep investment in the well-being of those they care for.
“Our providers truly embody the values that make GOC a place of trust, healing, and hope,” said Dr. Sizer. “Many other mental health practices do what we do, but at the heart of GOC, our care is grounded, thoughtful, and always centered on the people we serve.”
One of the most notable areas of growth has been in the range of services offered. GOC provides a comprehensive continuum of care, including therapy (for individuals across the lifespan, couples/relationships, and families); psychological testing and assessment (for conditions such as ADHD, Autism, and learning differences); group therapy (on topics like anxiety, recovery, social skills, and grief); trauma-focused therapy; and psychiatric services (including evaluation and medication management).
What distinguishes GOC is its integrated approach — it offers both therapy and psychiatric services under one roof. When therapy and psychiatry work together, people get coordinated care that leads to positive outcomes.
“This kind of care is not always easy to find in your own community,” said Michael Mulvihill, LPC, GOC’s Director of Business Operations.
Embracing Technology and Telehealth
In response to the pandemic and the ongoing demand for flexible care, GOC has made significant investments in telehealth infrastructure. Virtual therapy sessions have become a permanent and popular option, allowing clients to access care from the comfort and privacy of their homes. This shift has not only improved accessibility but also reduced barriers.
GOC’s commitment to leveraging technology extends beyond teletherapy. The center has upgraded its electronic health records system, streamlined its online intake process, and along with its enhanced website, has made it easier for new clients to find information and connect with the right provider.
Building What Comes Next
GOC boasts a robust staff of licensed therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, and support personnel. They all strive to ensure that clients receive timely, personalized care from professionals who are not only highly qualified but also deeply committed to GOC’s values of compassion, respect, and empowerment.
As GOC continues to grow, its focus remains on providing accessible, high-quality mental health care to all who need it. With plans to build capacity, invest in staff development, and deepen its community partnerships, Growth Opportunity Center is poised to make an even greater impact on Bucks County and the surrounding communities.
In a world where mental health needs are more visible and urgent than ever, GOC stands as a place of hope, healing, and — true to its name — growth.
