Behavioral health leader Acadia Healthcare Co. Inc. (Nasdaq: ACHC) has announced a major leadership update, appointing Dr. Nasser Khan as operations group president for its Comprehensive Treatment Centers (CTCs) division, effective September 6. Dr. Khan reports directly to John Hollinsworth, executive vice president of operations.
Acadia’s Comprehensive Treatment Centers division is a central part of the company’s operations, representing roughly 60% of its national footprint. The division includes 145 centers across the U.S., serving thousands of patients daily with a broad spectrum of behavioral health services. Overall, Acadia Healthcare operates 239 behavioral health care facilities, with more than 10,600 beds in 39 states and Puerto Rico, making it the largest pure-play behavioral health company in the country.
Leadership With Experience and Vision
Dr. Khan brings extensive healthcare leadership experience to his new role. His appointment reflects Acadia’s ongoing commitment to operational excellence and clinical innovation. According to Hollinsworth:
“Nasser brings unrivaled qualifications to this position. He has successfully managed and grown multi-site, healthcare delivery networks. He understands that our people are our most important asset.”
Before joining Acadia Healthcare, Dr. Khan served as senior vice president of operations at Shields Health Solutions, a subsidiary of Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc. His previous roles include:
- Head of Program and Chief Medical Officer, Biograph Inc.
- Division Vice President of Hospital Services, DaVita Inc.
- Engagement Manager, McKinsey & Co.
Dr. Khan emphasized his focus on supporting caregivers and improving clinical outcomes:
“Throughout my career, I have been drawn to areas where I can use my experience and medical expertise for the greatest good. Working with our exceptional team, my focus will be on supporting our caregivers in delivering compassionate care and driving best-in-class clinical outcomes while expanding our network to help other communities in dire need.”
Comprehensive Treatment Centers: Services and Programs
Acadia’s Comprehensive Treatment Centers specialize in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and behavioral therapy for individuals struggling with substance-use disorders. These centers also provide care for co-occurring mental health conditions.
Programs offered at the Comprehensive Treatment Centers include:
- Individual and group therapy
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOP)
- Outpatient programs
- Partial hospitalization programs (PHP)
Support services extend to medical care, counseling, and educational programs, ensuring patients receive a full spectrum of care tailored to their needs. The division’s approach emphasizes holistic treatment and long-term recovery.
Growth and Expansion Plans
Acadia Healthcare has ambitious plans to expand its Comprehensive Treatment Centers network. In the first half of the year, the company opened two new centers and plans to open at least six more by year’s end.
Additional expansion initiatives include:
- Adding 300 new beds to existing facilities
- Opening one wholly-owned facility
- Establishing two joint-venture facilities
These initiatives demonstrate Acadia’s commitment to increasing access to behavioral health care across underserved communities, particularly through its network of Comprehensive Treatment Centers.
Workforce and Patient Reach
Acadia Healthcare employs around 22,500 staff members, supporting a daily patient census of 70,000 individuals. The workforce includes psychiatrists, nurses, therapists, and support personnel who deliver integrated behavioral health care.
Under Dr. Khan’s leadership, the focus will be on empowering caregivers to deliver high-quality care at all Comprehensive Treatment Centers, ensuring staff have the resources and support to meet patient needs effectively.
Strategic Vision
CEO Christopher Hunter emphasized Acadia’s role as a proactive acquirer in behavioral health. Hunter highlighted the company’s low debt burden as a key factor enabling strategic acquisitions and growth.
“We intend to be a proactive acquirer in behavioral health,” Hunter said, signaling a commitment to expanding the company’s footprint and addressing gaps in care nationwide.
Financially, Acadia Healthcare reported $1.3 billion in revenue in the first half of the year, demonstrating strong momentum as it expands its network of Comprehensive Treatment Centers.
Community Impact
The expansion of Acadia’s Comprehensive Treatment Centers is expected to make a tangible difference in communities facing high demand for behavioral health services. By offering a combination of MAT, therapy programs, and supportive services, these centers help individuals overcome substance-use disorders and mental health challenges while promoting long-term recovery.
With Dr. Khan leading the division, Acadia is well-positioned to strengthen clinical outcomes, improve patient experiences, and expand access to high-quality care in communities across the United States.
Looking Ahead
Under Dr. Khan’s leadership, Acadia Healthcare’s Comprehensive Treatment Centers division is set for continued growth, operational excellence, and high-quality patient care. By combining strategic expansion, clinical innovation, and a dedicated workforce, the company is meeting rising demand while maintaining its commitment to compassionate care.
As Acadia expands its network of Comprehensive Treatment Centers, the company will continue to innovate, improve patient outcomes, and ensure that more communities have access to the behavioral health services they need.
With its robust network, strong leadership, and financial stability, Acadia Healthcare remains a leader in the field of behavioral health, shaping the future of care for patients across the country.
