Trumpet Behavioral Health, a leading national provider of applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy services, has announced a significant ABA Therapy Leadership Transition with the appointment of Joshua Sleeper as its new Chief Executive Officer. The move marks a pivotal chapter in the organization’s journey, reinforcing its mission-driven approach and commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.
This transition is more than a change at the top—it’s a reaffirmation of Trumpet’s dedication to placing clinical excellence and compassionate service at the heart of everything it does. As the behavioral health industry evolves rapidly, having a leader with deep roots in both clinical practice and executive leadership is key to sustained impact and innovation.
From Therapist to CEO: A Career Built on Purpose
Joshua Sleeper’s promotion to CEO is the result of a nearly two-decade-long career within Trumpet Behavioral Health. Sleeper began his journey with the organization in 2006 as a therapist and board certified behavior analyst (BCBA), and has since held a range of clinical and leadership roles. Most recently, he served as President and Chief Operating Officer, overseeing operations across Trumpet’s growing national footprint.
“Over the course of my time here, it has been a privilege to work with Trumpet’s clients, families, and dedicated employees,” said Sleeper in the company’s press release. “I am thrilled to step into this role and continue to drive our mission of providing patient-centered ABA therapy to the families we serve.”
This ABA Therapy Leadership Transition stands out in the industry because it highlights a leader who has firsthand experience delivering care, developing clinical teams, and building systems that work. Sleeper’s background ensures that Trumpet’s growth will remain tightly aligned with its core values and clinical integrity.
Industry Leaders Applaud the Appointment
The appointment has been enthusiastically received by Trumpet’s executive team and board of directors. CJ Burnes, a board member at Trumpet Behavioral Health, expressed confidence in Sleeper’s ability to guide the organization forward.
“Josh has been an exceptional leader at Trumpet for more than a decade, and we are thrilled to welcome him as our CEO,” Burnes stated. “Given his background as an experienced BCBA, he is uniquely qualified to lead Trumpet in the next phase of its growth.”
As part of the broader ABA Therapy Leadership Transition, Sleeper succeeds Ned Carlson, who led the organization through important developmental milestones. The seamless handoff between two seasoned leaders underscores Trumpet’s stability and its forward-thinking approach to succession planning.
A National Provider With a Local Commitment
Trumpet Behavioral Health provides ABA services to children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings, including clinics, homes, and schools. Headquartered in Lakewood, Colorado, the organization currently operates 45 locations across seven states: Colorado, Arizona, California, Kansas, Michigan, Ohio, and Texas.
With more than 1,100 dedicated professionals—including therapists, BCBAs, and support staff—Trumpet is one of the most respected names in the ABA field. This ABA Therapy Leadership Transition comes at a moment when demand for autism services continues to grow, and the need for strong, values-based leadership is more critical than ever.
Sleeper’s promotion reflects a commitment to ensuring that operational expansion does not come at the expense of personalized, high-quality care. His clinical background equips him to make decisions that prioritize outcomes for clients and support for clinicians alike.
Preparing for the Future of ABA Therapy
As the field of applied behavior analysis grows more sophisticated, so too must the organizations that provide these services. The ABA Therapy Leadership Transition at Trumpet Behavioral Health is designed to support the company’s vision for the future—one where clinical outcomes, family engagement, and sustainable growth work hand in hand.
Sleeper’s experience as both a BCBA and a senior executive provides a rare blend of skills. He understands the realities of working directly with clients and families, and he brings that understanding into every strategic conversation. This alignment between mission and execution is exactly what’s needed in today’s behavioral health climate.
Trumpet’s leadership team anticipates that under Sleeper’s guidance, the company will continue expanding access to services in underserved communities, investing in clinician development, and leveraging data to drive clinical excellence.
A Model for Leadership in Behavioral Health
The ABA Therapy Leadership Transition at Trumpet Behavioral Health sets a powerful example for other organizations in the space. It demonstrates the value of promoting from within, especially when the candidate brings both operational expertise and clinical authenticity.
In many behavioral health organizations, a gap exists between leadership and clinical teams. By elevating someone like Sleeper—a leader who began his journey in direct care—Trumpet is closing that gap and sending a clear message: empathy, experience, and evidence-based practice are essential to effective leadership.
As demand for ABA therapy rises and the regulatory environment becomes more complex, organizations that maintain strong clinical leadership will be best positioned to thrive. This ABA Therapy Leadership Transition is a strategic move that reflects Trumpet’s readiness to lead the way in the next era of autism services.
Building on a Legacy of Trust and Innovation
Sleeper steps into the CEO role with a deep appreciation for Trumpet’s legacy and a clear vision for its future. His unique ability to navigate both the clinical and operational sides of the business makes him the ideal choice to guide Trumpet through its next phase of development.
This ABA Therapy Leadership Transition is not just a change in title—it’s a signal that Trumpet Behavioral Health is doubling down on what matters most: quality care, clinical excellence, and meaningful outcomes for the individuals and families it serves.
