Leadership transitions can significantly shape the direction of behavioral health and addiction treatment organizations. Recent appointments highlight how hospitals and treatment centers are adapting to both internal challenges and the growing demand for quality care. In this update, we explore key leadership changes at North Tampa Behavioral Health Hospital in Florida, the Virginia Center for Addiction Medicine, and Healing Springs Ranch in Texas. These changes not only reflect organizational shifts but also shed light on how the industry continues to evolve in pursuit of higher standards and stronger patient outcomes.
Florida Behavioral Health Hospital Appoints New CEO and HR Director
North Tampa Behavioral Health Hospital, located in Florida, has undergone a significant leadership change following a period of controversy. Clint Hauger has been appointed as the hospital’s new CEO, while Lorenzo Rivera has stepped into the role of director of human resources.
Hauger replaces Byron Coleman Jr., the hospital’s former CEO who stepped down in December after facing scrutiny. Allegations suggested Coleman lacked the qualifications necessary for the role, and additional concerns were raised regarding violations of patient rights and safety protocols. The controversy ultimately led to Coleman’s resignation, leaving the hospital in need of new leadership that could restore credibility and trust.
Hauger brings with him experience as the former CEO of Palmetto Lowcountry Behavioral Health Hospital in Charleston, South Carolina. Both North Tampa Behavioral and Palmetto are operated by Universal Health Services (UHS), one of the largest hospital management companies in the country. Hauger’s previous experience within the UHS system positions him as a strong candidate to guide North Tampa Behavioral toward stability and growth.
In addition to Hauger’s appointment, North Tampa Behavioral has brought on Lorenzo Rivera as its new director of human resources. Rivera has an extensive background in behavioral health HR management, most recently serving as HR manager at Belmont Behavioral Hospital in Philadelphia. Belmont is operated by Acadia Healthcare, another major player in behavioral health care. Rivera’s expertise in HR practices for behavioral health environments will likely play a vital role in ensuring that staff development, compliance, and workplace culture are prioritized at North Tampa.
Together, Hauger and Rivera represent a fresh start for the hospital, which has faced reputational challenges. Their appointments reflect a broader industry effort to ensure hospitals are led by qualified professionals who can balance both operational excellence and patient-centered care.
Virginia Center for Addiction Medicine Names New Clinical Director
The Virginia Center for Addiction Medicine (VCAM), located in Glen Allen near Richmond, has also announced a key leadership appointment. Andreas Bienert has joined the organization as its new clinical program director.
Bienert’s hiring comes at an important time for VCAM, which is preparing to expand its programs. With expertise that bridges both academic and clinical perspectives, Bienert previously served as an assistant professor at Colorado Christian University in Lakewood, Colorado. His academic background, combined with hands-on experience in behavioral health, makes him well-positioned to oversee the expansion of clinical services at VCAM.
The addition of Bienert follows another major leadership change at the organization. In the previous month, Anna McKean was appointed CEO of VCAM. This combination of new leadership suggests that the organization is entering a period of growth, innovation, and strategic development.
VCAM has built a reputation for providing comprehensive addiction treatment, integrating medical, therapeutic, and behavioral approaches. With Bienert’s leadership on the clinical side, the center is expected to strengthen its ability to deliver high-quality, evidence-based care for patients facing substance use disorders.
Healing Springs Ranch Appoints New Clinical Program Director
In Texas, Healing Springs Ranch (HSR) has also announced a significant leadership change. The Tioga-based residential addiction treatment center has named Julie Willingham as its new clinical program director.
Willingham brings more than 30 years of experience in the substance use disorder treatment field, covering a wide range of roles across clinical services, operations, and marketing. Her leadership experience is especially extensive, with over a decade spent in director and managerial positions. This background positions her to bring both clinical expertise and organizational insight to her new role at HSR.
Healing Springs Ranch is located north of Dallas and offers a comprehensive approach to recovery. The facility provides treatment for substance use disorders, trauma, and co-occurring mental health conditions. Known for its holistic and individualized treatment model, HSR accepts both in-network and out-of-network insurance plans, making its services accessible to a broad range of patients.
With Willingham’s leadership, HSR is expected to continue expanding its ability to provide integrated, patient-centered care. Her experience across different aspects of the behavioral health field may also support the organization’s efforts to further solidify its reputation as a leading residential treatment center in Texas.
The Significance of Leadership Transitions in Behavioral Health
Leadership changes such as those at North Tampa Behavioral Health Hospital, VCAM, and Healing Springs Ranch are more than administrative shifts. They signal a commitment to strengthening organizational standards and aligning clinical leadership with patient needs. The behavioral health field has faced challenges including staffing shortages, increasing demand for services, and greater scrutiny regarding quality and compliance. New leaders bring fresh perspectives and renewed accountability, which are crucial to meeting these challenges effectively.
At North Tampa Behavioral Health Hospital, Hauger and Rivera’s appointments reflect a focus on rebuilding trust and ensuring both operational and HR practices meet the highest standards. At VCAM, Bienert’s hiring demonstrates a commitment to strengthening clinical oversight during a period of program expansion. Meanwhile, Healing Springs Ranch’s decision to bring in a seasoned professional like Willingham underscores the importance of leadership with deep, hands-on experience in guiding treatment programs.
Each of these changes illustrates a broader trend within the industry: the recognition that leadership directly impacts patient outcomes. Behavioral health and addiction treatment organizations operate at the intersection of healthcare, regulatory requirements, and community trust. Strong, qualified leaders are essential to navigate these complexities and ensure patients receive safe, effective, and compassionate care.
Looking Ahead
As behavioral health and addiction treatment continue to grow in prominence within the healthcare landscape, leadership appointments will play a critical role in shaping the future of care delivery. Organizations that prioritize experienced, capable, and compassionate leaders are better positioned to provide effective services, foster staff development, and maintain community trust.
The recent appointments at North Tampa Behavioral Health Hospital, the Virginia Center for Addiction Medicine, and Healing Springs Ranch reflect a shared understanding across the industry: leadership matters. Whether addressing past challenges, planning for expansion, or building on existing strengths, these organizations are demonstrating their commitment to continuous improvement and high-quality care.
For patients and families navigating behavioral health and addiction treatment, these leadership changes offer reassurance that providers are actively working to enhance their services. Ultimately, the goal is to create systems of care that not only address immediate treatment needs but also support long-term recovery, resilience, and well-being.
