Professional Expertise

Wayne is a leader in behavioral health and technology innovation, with a decade of experience in developing and implementing forward-thinking solutions for addiction recovery and behavioral health organizations. He currently serves as the Director of Operations at Cholla Behavioral Health, where he oversees systems analytics, practitioner compliance, and operational strategies for a value-based, integrated care facility. Wayne's career in behavioral health began as a business manager for a substance use treatment facility before transitioning into roles as a housing coordinator for sober living homes. His expertise spans licensing, compliance, credentialing, policy development, and reimbursement optimization, making him a key figure in shaping sustainable and effective behavioral health programs. As a consultant, Wayne has provided licensing, compliance, and policy development services to behavioral health organizations, ensuring facilities operate within best practice standards while remaining financially viable. His ability to merge technology with clinical best practices positions him as a thought leader in behavioral health innovation.

Certifications & Leadership

Wayne holds a Bachelor of Science in Substance Use Counseling and is currently pursuing a Master's in Clinical Social Work, further deepening his expertise in clinical and operational excellence. He began his career with a Peer Support Certification, reinforcing his personal commitment to lived experience and peer-driven recovery models. Wayne has spoken at major behavioral health conferences, including the Southwestern School for Behavioral Health Studies and Position of Neutrality, sharing his insights on AI adoption in behavioral health and 12-step recovery solutions. His ability to bridge the gap between technology and compassionate care makes him a key voice in the industry's future.

Advocacy & Education

Beyond his executive and consulting roles, Wayne is a dedicated advocate for 12-step recovery programs and serves as a sponsor in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), supporting individuals on their path to sobriety. His passion for education and innovation has led him to train teams, develop operational protocols, and advocate for AI solutions that improve engagement, access, and outcomes in behavioral health. A strong advocate for AI-driven engagement solutions, Wayne has been integral in the development of an innovative Recovery Engagement Platform designed to increase engagement in hard-to-reach populations. He has also authored a 12-step curriculum, successfully implementing it into a computer-based Learning Management System (LMS), helping recovery centers scale and standardize their programming. Wayne’s commitment to scaling behavioral health solutions through technology reflects his vision of a more accessible, data-driven, and client-centered recovery model, ensuring that individuals receive the support they need—when and where they need it most.