Discovery Behavioral Health Inc., a rapidly growing and diversified behavioral health provider, has announced the promotion of Jennifer Carvalho to behavioral health executive and president of its substance use division. Carvalho previously served as vice president of the substance use disorder division and as CEO of Casa Palmera, a leading residential treatment facility in Del Mar, California. In her new role, she will report directly to Chief Operating Officer James Bailey and oversee the company’s substance use programs across its expanding national footprint.
Carvalho Joins NAATP Board
In addition to her new leadership position, Carvalho has been elected to the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP) board, effective January 1, 2023. NAATP is a professional association and advocacy group representing addiction treatment providers, and Carvalho’s election reinforces her growing reputation as a trusted behavioral health executive in the industry. “Our ability to navigate the shifting landscape of behavioral health is key to addressing the expanding national mental health crisis,” Carvalho said. “Ease of connectivity creates access to care, and we do that through outreach efforts that allow for patient-centered paths to treatment, whether through a digital platform or inpatient services.”
Discovery Behavioral Health Overview
Founded in 1985, Discovery Behavioral Health has grown into a network of more than 145 treatment centers across the United States. The Irvine, California-based company offers comprehensive clinical services, including residential treatment, partial hospitalization programs, intensive outpatient programs, and outpatient care. It also maintains partnerships with around 100 payers and managed care organizations, ensuring broad access to care. Backed by Webster Equity Partners, which first invested in the company in 2011, Discovery has been able to expand its services and improve patient outcomes under strong leadership by accomplished behavioral health executives like Carvalho.
Expansion Through Addiction Treatment Acquisitions
Addiction treatment is a growing focus for Discovery Behavioral Health. In August, the company acquired Brookdale Premiere Addiction Recovery, a 110-bed residential addiction treatment facility in Scotrun, Pennsylvania, marking Discovery’s expansion into a 15th state market. A month earlier, the company acquired Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry, which operates 12 locations across Texas and California. These acquisitions highlight the role of strategic decision-making by behavioral health executives in driving growth and expanding access to care for patients across the nation.
Launch of DiscoveryMD
Carvalho’s appointment follows other major innovations within the company’s substance use division. In March, Discovery Behavioral Health launched DiscoveryMD, a comprehensive program combining in-person and telehealth services, including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), addiction medicine, and emerging psychedelic therapies. This initiative reflects the forward-thinking approach of the company’s leadership team, emphasizing the impact of strong behavioral health executives in adapting to a changing healthcare environment.
Industry Recognition
“Jen’s work in patient access to care, stigma reduction, and workforce development are known throughout the behavioral health industry, and her public speaking and the sharing of her own recovery experience have been an inspiration to scores of patients,” said Discovery Behavioral Health CEO John Peloquin. “We welcome Jen as the newest member of our executive team and a leading behavioral health executive in our industry.”
Commitment to Patient-Centered Care
Carvalho’s focus on accessibility, inclusivity, and patient-centered care illustrates how a skilled behavioral health executive can transform organizational culture and service delivery. By combining clinical expertise with personal advocacy, she is helping Discovery Behavioral Health expand its national footprint, improve patient outcomes, and shape the future of addiction treatment.
Looking Ahead
As a behavioral health executive, Carvalho’s appointment signals the company’s dedication to leadership excellence and strategic growth. With her guidance, Discovery Behavioral Health is poised to continue expanding its services, integrating innovative treatment solutions, and addressing the growing behavioral health challenges facing the United States today.
