This Place is About
Changing Lives
- About Us
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide quality, comprehensive, compassionate and innovative care to adults struggling with alcohol and/or drug conditions and mental/behavioral health issues. Through research-based and empathetic care we instill hope that long-term recovery is possible. Our purpose and passion is to empower the individual, his/her family, and the community through the promotion of optimal wellness of the mind, body, and spirit.
American Addiction Centers’ Key Features
We Specialize in Dual Diagnosis
Dual diagnosis is the simultaneous treatment of drug and alcohol abuse and mental health issues. Up to 50 percent of those with mental health disorders also have a substance abuse problem. To combat an endless cycle of unhealthy living, dual diagnosis is built into the very core of our treatment programs. Additionally, if a client has a medical condition complicated by substance abuse, such as hypertension, we offer concurrent treatment for all three conditions.
We Are Research-Based
Our curriculum and treatment program are research-based, meaning we provide the best care possible by rooting our program in scientifically proven therapy modalities. Our licensed counselors utilize motivational interviewing techniques to meet the client where the client is, along with many other research-based treatment modalities. Another key component to our program is its integration of the 5 Essential Elements. These elements are based on Michael Cartwright’s 20 years of experience and 15 federally-funded studies on dual diagnosis and addiction. We also consult with a wide range of clinical experts in order to stay innovative and up-to-date with the latest advancements in addiction recovery.
12-Step Philosophy
Building out from our research-based program that incorporates the latest research and best treatment practices, our program is augmented by the 12-Step philosophy. Introduced in the 1930s by Alcoholics Anonymous, the 12 steps were designed to help individuals achieve physical, emotional, and spiritual recovery.
We Are CARF Accredited
All of our treatment centers as well as each of their programs earned Three-Year CARF Accreditation, the highest level of accreditation. Thus, according to CARF, we satisfy each of the CARF accreditation conditions and standards and there is substantial evidence that our programs and services are designed and operated to benefit the clients. Unlike centers that have earned One-Year CARF Accreditation and were unable to demonstrate conformance to several standards, we implemented processes to ensure our programs and services are client-centered, of highest quality and value and quality improvement focused.
Our Caring, Expert Staff
Our staff of compassionate, seasoned professionals is committed to the success and well-being of our clients. This includes everyone from medical doctors, resident nurses, Board-certified psychiatrists, registered dietitians, licensed counselors, therapists, and social workers, to licensed personal trainers and professional chefs.
“It’s not enough to say, ‘I want a better life.’ Merely dreaming about living in grandeur will never get you there. You have to see it specifically, visualizing yourself there now.”
Michael CartwrightChairman & Co-Founder, American Addiction Centers
@Believe2952
Known as an addiction industry author, national speaker and overall trailblazer, Michael Cartwright has been a behavioral healthcare entrepreneur for over 20 years. Having started four companies, Michael’s treatment services have spanned 12 states across the nation and served both the public and private sectors. From government grants, Medicaid and Medicare to commercial insurance and private pay, Michael has provided services to many population segments.
Committed to quality, effective care, Michael has directly supervised 15 federally funded research studies regarding best treatment practices. Identified as an expert on program development, integrated care and research-based approaches, Michael was appointed to the U.S. Senate Help Sub-committee on Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services, a bi-partisan Technical Advisory Workgroup and NASADAD / NASMHPD Joint Task Force. Michael was also a founding board member of Dual Recovery Anonymous and currently serves as a member of the National Steering Council on Co-occurring Disorders.
The culmination of his research and experience are the foundation of his book Believable Hope: 5 Essential Elements to Beat Any Addiction.
Committed to quality, effective care, Michael has directly supervised 15 federally funded research studies regarding best treatment practices. Identified as an expert on program development, integrated care and research-based approaches, Michael was appointed to the U.S. Senate Help Sub-committee on Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services, a bi-partisan Technical Advisory Workgroup and NASADAD / NASMHPD Joint Task Force. Michael was also a founding board member of Dual Recovery Anonymous and currently serves as a member of the National Steering Council on Co-occurring Disorders.
The culmination of his research and experience are the foundation of his book Believable Hope: 5 Essential Elements to Beat Any Addiction.
In Believable Hope, Michael shares his personal struggles, his recovery process, and the 5-pronged approach, the 5 Essential Elements, that have caused dramatic, healthy transformations for thousands of people.
Currently, the Chairman of the Board of American Addiction Centers, a national behavioral healthcare company with treatment centers located in Southern California, Nevada, Texas, Tennessee and Florida, Michael offers treatment and recovery options for drug, alcohol, mental health, and binge eating disorders. The 5 Essential Elements play a key role in American Addiction Centers’ clinical programs and are integral to the AAC culture.
In addition to co-founding American Addiction Centers, Michael launched the national Lifestyle Intervention Conference. This annual conference focuses on all lifestyle addictions, including food, obesity, sex, pornography, gambling, smoking and gaming. Currently in its fourth year, this is the only conference in the country where all specialties come together in one place.
Michael currently lives in Franklin, TN, with his wife and two children.
Currently, the Chairman of the Board of American Addiction Centers, a national behavioral healthcare company with treatment centers located in Southern California, Nevada, Texas, Tennessee and Florida, Michael offers treatment and recovery options for drug, alcohol, mental health, and binge eating disorders. The 5 Essential Elements play a key role in American Addiction Centers’ clinical programs and are integral to the AAC culture.
In addition to co-founding American Addiction Centers, Michael launched the national Lifestyle Intervention Conference. This annual conference focuses on all lifestyle addictions, including food, obesity, sex, pornography, gambling, smoking and gaming. Currently in its fourth year, this is the only conference in the country where all specialties come together in one place.
Michael currently lives in Franklin, TN, with his wife and two children.
Management Team Bios:
Candance Candy Henderson-Grice, Chief Operating Officer
Candy joins AAC with over 24 years of healthcare experience. Prior to her position with us, she worked nine years for CRC Health Corporation, the largest behavioral healthcare provider in the country. She held various positions of increasing responsibility, rising from Executive Director, Director Operations, Vice President Operations to Division President. For eleven years she worked for Comprehensive Addiction Programs, a full-service addiction treatment provider of residential and opiate treatment. The company was acquired by CRC in 2003. Candy is an experienced leader in growth-oriented organizations, merger/acquisitions, startups, turnarounds, talent recruitment, program development, financial planning, market analysis, and community relations. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from University of Alabama and Masters in Psychology & Counseling from Troy State University.
Candy joins AAC with over 24 years of healthcare experience. Prior to her position with us, she worked nine years for CRC Health Corporation, the largest behavioral healthcare provider in the country. She held various positions of increasing responsibility, rising from Executive Director, Director Operations, Vice President Operations to Division President. For eleven years she worked for Comprehensive Addiction Programs, a full-service addiction treatment provider of residential and opiate treatment. The company was acquired by CRC in 2003. Candy is an experienced leader in growth-oriented organizations, merger/acquisitions, startups, turnarounds, talent recruitment, program development, financial planning, market analysis, and community relations. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from University of Alabama and Masters in Psychology & Counseling from Troy State University.
Kirk Manz, Chief Financial Officer
Kirk has 23 years of professional experience as founder and chief executive of five communications companies, managing partner of a boutique investment banking firm, institutional account manager in the securities industry, senior healthcare executive, and independent business consultant. He is the co-founder and former CEO of Igaea, an international voiceover IP Company, and founder of Private Capital Group, a boutique investment banking firm. Kirk is a graduate of Vanderbilt University.
Kirk has 23 years of professional experience as founder and chief executive of five communications companies, managing partner of a boutique investment banking firm, institutional account manager in the securities industry, senior healthcare executive, and independent business consultant. He is the co-founder and former CEO of Igaea, an international voiceover IP Company, and founder of Private Capital Group, a boutique investment banking firm. Kirk is a graduate of Vanderbilt University.
Andrew W. McWilliams, Chief Accounting Officer
Mr. McWilliams joined the company as Chief Accounting Officer in August 2014. From October 1998 through August 2014, Mr. McWilliams worked as an auditor with Ernst & Young LLP, a national public accounting firm. During his tenure with Ernst & Young, Mr. McWilliams served multiple healthcare clients and also gained experience across a variety of corporate transactions, including public offerings of securities and mergers and acquisitions.
Mr. McWilliams joined the company as Chief Accounting Officer in August 2014. From October 1998 through August 2014, Mr. McWilliams worked as an auditor with Ernst & Young LLP, a national public accounting firm. During his tenure with Ernst & Young, Mr. McWilliams served multiple healthcare clients and also gained experience across a variety of corporate transactions, including public offerings of securities and mergers and acquisitions.
Kathryn Phillips, General Counsel and Secretary
Ms. Phillips joined the Company in 2013 as General Counsel and Secretary. From 2009 to 2013, Ms. Phillips served as Managing Partner of Sevier Phillips & Associates, a legal, compliance and political consulting practice focused primarily on healthcare clients. From 2004 to 2008, Ms. Phillips was General Counsel and Secretary of National Renal Alliance, LLC, a national renal disease management and dialysis provider, where Ms. Phillips served as the chief legal and government affairs officer. From 1999 to 2004, Ms. Phillips practiced with the law firm of Stites & Harbison PLLC. In 1999, Ms. Phillips served as General Counsel for Alexander for President, the presidential campaign of Senator Lamar Alexander. From 1995 to 1998, Ms. Phillips practiced with the law firm of Bass, Berry & Sims PLC.
Ms. Phillips joined the Company in 2013 as General Counsel and Secretary. From 2009 to 2013, Ms. Phillips served as Managing Partner of Sevier Phillips & Associates, a legal, compliance and political consulting practice focused primarily on healthcare clients. From 2004 to 2008, Ms. Phillips was General Counsel and Secretary of National Renal Alliance, LLC, a national renal disease management and dialysis provider, where Ms. Phillips served as the chief legal and government affairs officer. From 1999 to 2004, Ms. Phillips practiced with the law firm of Stites & Harbison PLLC. In 1999, Ms. Phillips served as General Counsel for Alexander for President, the presidential campaign of Senator Lamar Alexander. From 1995 to 1998, Ms. Phillips practiced with the law firm of Bass, Berry & Sims PLC.
Mike Stetar, Chief Technology Officer
Mike spent more than 27 years with UPS prior to joining American Addiction Centers. Mike worked in various technology roles during his many years at UPS. He brings with him vast knowledge and experience in multi-facility IT system architecture and design. He now resides in Nashville, TN with his wife and children.
Mike spent more than 27 years with UPS prior to joining American Addiction Centers. Mike worked in various technology roles during his many years at UPS. He brings with him vast knowledge and experience in multi-facility IT system architecture and design. He now resides in Nashville, TN with his wife and children.
Mike Blackburn, Sr. VP Business Development
Mike is a certified Employee Assistance Professional, Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Labor Assistance Professional, Substance Abuse Professional and is Certified in Acute Traumatic Stress Management. He retired from the Providence, RI, Fire Department with the rank of Battalion Chief and is a proud member of the Rhode Island Fire/Police Union.
Mike is a certified Employee Assistance Professional, Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Labor Assistance Professional, Substance Abuse Professional and is Certified in Acute Traumatic Stress Management. He retired from the Providence, RI, Fire Department with the rank of Battalion Chief and is a proud member of the Rhode Island Fire/Police Union.
Adam Mittelberg, Chief Marketing Officer
Prior to joining American Addiction Centers, Adam was the Director of Worldwide Sales at Griffin Technology. Adam brings over 15 years of executive sales and marketing experience to the organization, spending much of his career within highly successful interactive marketing and technology based companies. He holds a BA in Marketing and resides outside of Nashville, TN with his family.
Prior to joining American Addiction Centers, Adam was the Director of Worldwide Sales at Griffin Technology. Adam brings over 15 years of executive sales and marketing experience to the organization, spending much of his career within highly successful interactive marketing and technology based companies. He holds a BA in Marketing and resides outside of Nashville, TN with his family.
Paul Reed, VP of Operations
A South Florida native, Paul Reed, LCSW currently serves as the Vice President of Operations for American Addiction Centers. Mr. Reed earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Florida and has a Master’s degree in Social Work from Florida International University. Prior to joining American Addiction Centers, Mr. Reed was the Regional Director of Florida Programs at CRC Healthcare Inc. With over 20 years of experience in the behavioral health industry, Mr. Reed has managed programs with a 200+ bed capacity, attained and sustained both JCAHO and CARF accreditations and specialty licenses, and spearheaded several expansion projects driven by capacity limitations and consistent waiting lists.
A South Florida native, Paul Reed, LCSW currently serves as the Vice President of Operations for American Addiction Centers. Mr. Reed earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Florida and has a Master’s degree in Social Work from Florida International University. Prior to joining American Addiction Centers, Mr. Reed was the Regional Director of Florida Programs at CRC Healthcare Inc. With over 20 years of experience in the behavioral health industry, Mr. Reed has managed programs with a 200+ bed capacity, attained and sustained both JCAHO and CARF accreditations and specialty licenses, and spearheaded several expansion projects driven by capacity limitations and consistent waiting lists.
Cindy Dill, VP of Human Resources
Cindy Dill joined the company in 2014 as Vice President, Human, Resources. Cindy has been in human resources, specifically in healthcare for twenty years. Cindy worked 12 years for Psychiatric Solutions, Inc. (PSI) as Vice President, Human Resources. PSI owned 93 hospitals in 32 states, as the largest for-profit operator of owned or leased freestanding psychiatric inpatient facilities. Cindy is an experienced leader with mergers and acquisitions, startups, finance, operating in fast-paced organizations, human resources and management of large teams. Prior to PSI, Cindy worked for Response Oncology, Inc., a public corporation operating 44 cancer treatment centers and managing 10 physician practices in 24 states.
Cindy Dill joined the company in 2014 as Vice President, Human, Resources. Cindy has been in human resources, specifically in healthcare for twenty years. Cindy worked 12 years for Psychiatric Solutions, Inc. (PSI) as Vice President, Human Resources. PSI owned 93 hospitals in 32 states, as the largest for-profit operator of owned or leased freestanding psychiatric inpatient facilities. Cindy is an experienced leader with mergers and acquisitions, startups, finance, operating in fast-paced organizations, human resources and management of large teams. Prior to PSI, Cindy worked for Response Oncology, Inc., a public corporation operating 44 cancer treatment centers and managing 10 physician practices in 24 states.
Our Brand Promise
If you successfully complete our 90-day program, we guarantee you’ll stay clean and sober, or you can return for a complimentary 30 days of treatment.
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