In a move that marks a significant chapter for Pinnacle Treatment Centers, the private equity-backed provider of substance use disorder (SUD) services has named Michael Lawler as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This appointment comes at a pivotal time for the company, which is expanding its services across the United States, and it signals a new phase in the organization’s commitment to enhancing addiction treatment and recovery services for those in need. With more than three decades of experience in healthcare and leadership roles, Lawler’s wealth of expertise is expected to guide Pinnacle as it navigates the complexities of the healthcare landscape while continuing its mission to provide life-saving care to individuals suffering from substance use disorders.
A Proven Leader in Healthcare
Michael Lawler’s appointment as CEO of Pinnacle Treatment Centers brings with it a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record in healthcare leadership. Lawler most recently served as the CEO of CHE Behavioral Health Services, a private equity-backed hybrid mental health care company. During his tenure at CHE, Lawler helped the company strengthen its position in the competitive healthcare market, particularly within the behavioral health sector. His leadership was instrumental in driving the company’s growth, improving patient care outcomes, and expanding its service offerings.
Before his role at CHE Behavioral Health Services, Lawler had an extensive career in the medical supply industry. He spent over a decade at TwinMed, a medical supply distributor, where he held key positions such as Senior Vice President of Operations and Chief Operating Officer. His time at TwinMed further honed his operational expertise and his ability to scale organizations effectively. Lawler’s deep understanding of healthcare operations, combined with his experience in behavioral health, makes him uniquely qualified to lead Pinnacle Treatment Centers through its next phase of growth and service expansion.
Pinnacle’s Vision and Lawler’s Role in the Future
Pinnacle Treatment Centers, headquartered in Mt. Laurel, New Jersey, has become a recognized leader in providing comprehensive services for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. The organization offers a wide range of treatment options, including detox, residential care, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient treatment, medication-assisted treatment, and peer recovery services. These programs cater to a diverse population, addressing alcohol use disorder, opioid use disorder, co-occurring conditions, and other substance use disorders.
Under Lawler’s leadership, Pinnacle will continue its expansion strategy to bring care to more individuals across the United States. Pinnacle currently operates 140 locations across nine states: California, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. With the company’s strong footprint, Lawler’s role will be critical in helping Pinnacle scale its operations, enhance the quality of care, and meet the growing demand for addiction treatment services.
In a statement following his appointment, Lawler expressed his enthusiasm about joining Pinnacle and continuing the legacy of former CEO Joe Pritchard, who led the organization for several years. Lawler acknowledged Pritchard’s contributions to Pinnacle’s growth and reaffirmed his commitment to expanding the company’s impact in the addiction treatment field.
“I’m very proud to join Pinnacle,” Lawler said. “I plan on continuing the great work and tradition that Joe has established, that Pinnacle has established. We have a voice, we have a presence, and I want to build on that as leaders and experts in the addiction treatment field. Our goal remains the same, to continue to bring more care to people and communities who need it.”
Continuity and Change: Pritchard’s Advisory Role
Although Lawler assumes the top leadership role, Pinnacle’s former CEO, Joe Pritchard, will remain involved with the company in an advisory capacity. Pritchard’s extensive experience and contributions to Pinnacle’s success over the years will be valuable as Lawler takes the reins.
Pritchard expressed his confidence in Lawler’s ability to drive the organization forward, noting that Lawler’s approach to complex care and his dedication to supporting professional staff in safe and professional environments were key to his success at CHE Behavioral Health Services. Pritchard’s words reflect the strong partnership and continuity that Lawler will inherit, which bodes well for the future of Pinnacle Treatment Centers.
“Michael’s ability to drive complex care in very creative ways while ensuring the professional staff are fully developed and supported within safe and professional environments is a cornerstone to his success,” Pritchard said. “We are thrilled to have him on board as our new CEO and look forward to the positive impact he will have on our organization and the patients we serve.”
Expansion Through Mergers and Acquisitions
One of the key strategies that Pinnacle has been actively pursuing in recent years is growth through mergers and acquisitions (M&A), as well as de novo (new location) expansion. These strategies have allowed Pinnacle to scale its services rapidly and expand its reach to more communities in need of addiction treatment services. In April of the previous year, Pinnacle further strengthened its presence in the addiction treatment space by acquiring four outpatient opioid addiction treatment centers from Recovery Centers of America, a provider based in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania.
This acquisition is part of Pinnacle’s broader strategy to enhance its portfolio of services, diversify its treatment offerings, and increase access to care. By continuing to expand its network of treatment centers, Pinnacle aims to provide comprehensive, accessible, and effective treatment options for individuals dealing with substance use disorders.
The Role of Private Equity in Pinnacle’s Growth
Pinnacle Treatment Centers has been backed by Linden Capital Partners, a private equity firm that acquired a controlling stake in the company in 2016. Since that time, Linden Capital has supported Pinnacle’s efforts to grow and expand its network of treatment facilities. The firm’s backing has been crucial in helping Pinnacle enhance its services and expand its reach, particularly as the need for addiction treatment services has grown in the wake of the opioid crisis and the broader substance use disorder epidemic.
Reports from 2022 indicated that Linden Capital Partners was considering a sale of Pinnacle, but as of now, no official announcement regarding the company’s sale has been made. Pinnacle’s continued expansion and success suggest that the company remains a key player in the addiction treatment space, with a solid foundation for future growth under Lawler’s leadership.
A Positive Outlook for Pinnacle’s Future
As Pinnacle Treatment Centers continues to build on its strong legacy, Michael Lawler’s leadership promises to bring a fresh perspective and renewed momentum to the organization. With a focus on expanding access to care, enhancing patient outcomes, and continuing the company’s growth through strategic acquisitions and partnerships, Lawler’s appointment represents an exciting new chapter for Pinnacle.
The growing prevalence of substance use disorders in the United States, coupled with the ongoing opioid crisis, highlights the critical need for effective treatment providers like Pinnacle. With its comprehensive services and strong network of facilities, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is well-positioned to make a lasting impact on individuals and communities struggling with addiction.
Lawler’s deep experience in healthcare, combined with Pinnacle’s strong foundation and commitment to high-quality care, suggests that the company will continue to lead the way in addiction treatment for years to come. As the healthcare landscape evolves, Pinnacle Treatment Centers is poised to remain at the forefront of providing innovative and compassionate care to those in need.
