The behavioral health industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with new leadership appointments shaping the future direction of some of the nation’s most recognized providers. Leadership transitions in this space often signal strategic shifts, growth opportunities, and a renewed focus on expanding access to mental health and addiction treatment. In this edition of Movers & Shakers, several organizations have announced significant changes at the top, including Summit BHC, Sierra by the Sea, Sunrise Recovery Ranch, NeuroFlow, and the Lindner Center of Hope.
Sierra by the Sea and Sunrise Recovery Ranch Welcome New CEO
Sierra by the Sea and Sunrise Recovery Ranch—two respected facilities within the Acadia Healthcare (Nasdaq: ACHC) Sierra Tucson Group—have announced the appointment of Michelle Beaudoin as their new CEO. Beaudoin stepped into the role in late August, bringing more than 20 years of experience in behavioral health.
Prior to joining Acadia’s treatment network, Beaudoin served as senior vice president at Mental Health Systems, a nonprofit behavioral health agency in Southern California. Her work there was focused on expanding treatment access for vulnerable populations, improving operational efficiency, and strengthening program outcomes. These skills will serve her well as she takes on leadership responsibilities at two major facilities that provide comprehensive treatment for individuals with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions.
Sierra by the Sea, located in Newport Beach, California, offers residential treatment, partial hospitalization, and detoxification services. Its reputation for combining clinical care with individualized treatment makes it a vital part of the Sierra Tucson Group. Meanwhile, Sunrise Recovery Ranch in Riverside, California, offers a ranch-style, 10-acre setting for residential treatment, detoxification, and outpatient services. Both facilities are known for blending evidence-based practices with holistic approaches, and Beaudoin’s leadership is expected to further strengthen their position in California’s highly competitive behavioral health market.
Her appointment underscores Acadia’s continued investment in executive leadership talent as the company works to enhance its network of behavioral health centers nationwide.
Summit BHC Names Brent Turner as CEO
Franklin, Tennessee-based Summit BHC has also announced a major leadership change with the appointment of Brent Turner as its new CEO. Turner brings more than 17 years of executive experience in the healthcare sector, with much of that time spent at Acadia Healthcare, where he served as president.
Founded in 2013, Summit BHC has quickly grown to become a national provider of addiction treatment and behavioral health services, operating 21 centers across 15 states. Backed by Lee Equity Partners and FFL Partners, the company has been steadily expanding its footprint and investing in service offerings. Turner’s appointment signals a new era of growth as Summit looks to solidify its place as a leading behavioral health operator.
Former CEO Jon O’Shaughnessy will transition into the role of president, continuing to play a key part in business strategy, operations, and growth development. This leadership structure positions Summit for both stability and innovation, ensuring that the company is well-prepared to meet the growing demand for behavioral health services.
In a press release, O’Shaughnessy emphasized Turner’s strong track record and leadership qualities, noting that his appointment comes at a critical time when demand for addiction and mental health treatment has skyrocketed due to the ongoing impacts of COVID-19. With patient needs at an all-time high, Turner’s expertise in scaling operations and driving growth will be crucial.
NeuroFlow Expands Leadership with New VP of Sales
In the digital behavioral health space, Philadelphia-based NeuroFlow has announced the hiring of Neal Smart as its new vice president of sales. Smart brings extensive experience from Zocdoc, where he held multiple management positions.
NeuroFlow is a technology company focused on integrating behavioral health into broader healthcare systems. Its platform allows providers to track patient progress, monitor engagement, and tailor treatment plans based on real-time data collected from consumer-facing apps. This unique approach helps close gaps in care while making mental health services more accessible and measurable.
Smart joins NeuroFlow during a period of significant expansion. The company recently reported a “7X” year-over-year growth multiple, fueled by new partnerships with health plans, federal organizations, independent medical groups, and major health system networks. One of its most high-profile deals includes a contract with the U.S. Air Force, further demonstrating its ability to scale behavioral health technology across diverse sectors.
As VP of sales, Smart will play a key role in helping the company capture new markets, strengthen provider relationships, and maintain its momentum as a leader in digital behavioral health solutions.
Lindner Center of Hope Names New President and COO
In Mason, Ohio, the Lindner Center of Hope has announced that Paul Crosby will serve as its new president and chief operating officer. Crosby has been with the organization since its founding, holding a variety of leadership roles over the years. His clinical background and administrative expertise make him a natural choice for the dual leadership role.
As president and COO, Crosby will oversee strategic initiatives, operational improvements, and continued expansion of clinical programs. He will also continue practicing psychiatry, reflecting Lindner Center’s commitment to maintaining strong clinical leadership at every level.
Founding president and CEO Paul Keck will continue serving as CEO, ensuring continuity of vision and strategy. This transition positions the Lindner Center to continue its mission of providing world-class mental health treatment while also adapting to the evolving behavioral healthcare landscape.
What These Leadership Changes Mean for the Industry
Taken together, these leadership transitions highlight several broader trends within the behavioral health industry:
- Focus on Growth and Expansion
Organizations like Summit BHC and NeuroFlow are clearly positioning themselves for significant growth, both through geographic expansion and innovative service models. Appointing leaders with proven track records in scaling healthcare companies shows a strong commitment to growth. - Emphasis on Integrated and Holistic Care
Facilities such as Sierra by the Sea and Sunrise Recovery Ranch are expanding their leadership to ensure patients receive comprehensive care that addresses both mental health and substance use. New CEOs like Michelle Beaudoin bring experience in building integrated systems that support recovery on multiple levels. - Digital Health on the Rise
The appointment of a sales leader at NeuroFlow reflects how digital behavioral health companies are rapidly growing in importance. Technology will play a central role in expanding access, improving outcomes, and helping providers scale care delivery. - Continuity and Stability in Established Organizations
The Lindner Center of Hope’s leadership change balances stability with renewal. By promoting an internal leader to president and COO, the organization reinforces continuity while preparing for future challenges in behavioral health.
Looking Ahead
The behavioral health industry is experiencing unprecedented demand, driven in part by the ongoing mental health crisis and the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As organizations adapt to this demand, leadership transitions will play a crucial role in shaping strategies, ensuring sustainability, and meeting patient needs.
The recent appointments at Summit BHC, Sierra by the Sea, Sunrise Recovery Ranch, NeuroFlow, and the Lindner Center of Hope signal optimism and resilience in the behavioral healthcare sector. With new leaders at the helm, these organizations are well-positioned to innovate, expand, and enhance the quality of care for individuals and families across the country.
