Dr. Raymond Garcia, chief medical officer at Rosecrance Behavioral Health, has been named a recipient of the 2026 Exemplary Psychiatrist Award from the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
The award recognizes psychiatrists who excel in advocacy, education and commitment to treating the whole person, according to a community announcement. Recipients are known for improving access to care, supporting research and helping individuals and families navigate mental health conditions.
NAMI honors Dr. Raymond Garcia of Rosecrance with its 2026 Exemplary Psychiatrist Award for advancing access, education, and recovery.
Teaching and advocacy
Garcia’s work spans clinical care, education and community outreach. In addition to his role at Rosecrance, he is an educator at the University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford, where he helps train future physicians.
Clients say Garcia is collaborative and compassionate
Clients describe Garcia as collaborative and compassionate.
“He works with me to decide what’s best for my needs,” one of his clients said. “I cannot express how grateful I am to have someone like him. He is just the best psychiatrist.”
Despite his multiple leadership roles, Garcia remains closely connected to client care, delivering evidence-based treatment that also considers social and environmental factors. He is also an advocate for reducing stigma, regularly speaking in community and professional settings to promote understanding of mental health and substance use disorders, according to the announcement.
“Dr. Garcia is an exceptional physician and a true servant leader,” said Dr. Dave Gomel, CEO of Rosecrance Behavioral Health. “His kindness, integrity, and commitment to serving others are evident in everything he does, both professionally and personally. I’m incredibly proud to see him recognized for the impact he continues to make.”
This story was created by reporter Nida Tazeen, NTazeen@usatodayco.com , with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: National NAMI award honors Rosecrance leader Dr. Raymond Garcia