After an extensive nationwide search, Caron Treatment Centers has appointed John Driscoll as its new President and CEO. With decades of experience in addiction treatment, Driscoll steps into the role with a clear vision: to stabilize the workforce, align resources, and expand Caron’s mission of lifelong recovery.
The nonprofit organization, headquartered in Wernersville, Pennsylvania, operates facilities across Pennsylvania, Florida, Washington, D.C., Georgia, and New York. It provides comprehensive substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, behavioral health services, research, and education, employing approximately 755 staff members.
A Seasoned Leader with a Vision for Growth
Driscoll brings a wealth of expertise from his tenure at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, where he served in multiple leadership roles, most recently as Senior Vice President of Recovery Care Services. His experience spans clinical counseling, operational leadership, and program development, giving him a deep understanding of the complexities of addiction treatment.
“All of my roles at Hazelden Betty Ford – from counselor to senior vice president of all recovery care services – have given me insight into the importance of a full and robust continuum of care to help individuals struggling with this disease achieve the promise of recovery,” Driscoll stated.
His leadership approach prioritizes clinical excellence, financial sustainability, inclusivity, and national advocacy—all elements that align with Caron’s long-term strategy.
Expanding Services to Meet Patient Needs
Caron has made significant strides in expanding its treatment offerings, particularly with the recent opening of the Keele Medical Center in Delray Beach, Florida, earlier this year. This state-of-the-art facility includes:
- A medical detox unit
- 40 residential treatment beds
- A specialized senior treatment program
- Neurocognitive services
- Research and medical education initiatives
Driscoll views this expansion as a key step in broadening Caron’s impact while emphasizing the importance of stabilizing operations in the wake of rapid growth.
“My focus is to stabilize the workforce after this level of growth, align our resources to better meet our patients where they are, and focus on the future,” he said.
Beyond Florida, Caron’s flagship Pennsylvania campus has also expanded services, launching a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) this past summer. The program has already demonstrated strong patient engagement, prompting discussions about further expansion.
Workforce Challenges in Behavioral Health
Despite its growth, Caron faces an industry-wide challenge: workforce shortages.
“Our No. 1 issue as a field is our workforce,” Driscoll acknowledged.
He highlighted that addiction treatment often attracts professionals transitioning from other careers, meaning that many therapists, psychiatrists, and medical professionals in the field are nearing retirement. Meanwhile, the demand for SUD treatment remains higher than ever, with an estimated 44 million Americans needing support.
To address this crisis, Driscoll is focused on workforce retention, training, and recruitment efforts. Strengthening clinical and operational teams will be critical to ensuring consistent, high-quality care across Caron’s locations.
A Commitment to Lifelong Recovery
Caron’s mission is clear: “Recovery for Life.”
Beyond initial treatment, Driscoll aims to enhance long-term recovery support by strengthening alumni programs, community partnerships, and post-treatment care services. He believes that effective addiction treatment must go beyond acute care settings and meet people where they are throughout their recovery journey.
“In the long term, that means making sure we continue to engage individuals, families, and communities struggling with substance use disorder at all points along their recovery journey,” Driscoll emphasized.
As Caron continues to expand its footprint, its commitment to innovation, clinical excellence, and holistic recovery remains steadfast. Under Driscoll’s leadership, the organization is poised to navigate workforce challenges while continuing to provide high-quality, patient-centered addiction treatment nationwide.
