Dave Johnson

Dave Johnson brings more than 25 years of leadership in behavioral health, having served as an owner, operator, and senior executive at several nationally recognized addiction treatment organizations. Widely regarded as an industry expert and sought-after national speaker, Dave has overseen multi-state, private equity–backed companies with teams exceeding 800 staff and operating budgets over $100 million, working across all payor types including cash, commercial, and public insurance.
As the founder of a top behavioral health consulting firm, Dave has partnered with private and institutional investors on mergers and acquisitions, due diligence, and growth strategies—focusing on enhancing both operational performance and financial sustainability for treatment providers. Prior to that, he owned and led San Cristobal Treatment Center in New Mexico, where he introduced a groundbreaking long-term recovery model that blended Twelve-Step principles with outdoor experiential therapy, culminating in a successful sale in 2011.
Dave’s earlier roles included senior leadership positions with respected organizations such as the Hazelden Foundation, Denver and Chicago Public Schools, and Pitney Bowes. He has also contributed to public service, including five years as Chair of the Budget Subcommittee on Jefferson County’s District Accountability Committee, and candidacy for the Jefferson County School Board in 2021.
In long-term recovery since 1996, Dave brings lived experience and authenticity to his work. He holds a BA from Elmhurst College and a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Administration from Northern Arizona University. He and his wife, married for over two decades, are proud parents to their daughter and reside in Colorado.