Champions of Recovery Recognizing Leaders in the Rehabilitation Industry

1. Champions of Recovery: Recognizing Leaders in the Rehabilitation Industry

3. “ Small daily improvements over time lead to stunning results.

4. Note Et s ‘ Natalie May Natalie May

5. Recovering Hope However, there is hope in this difficult environment. That is why our feature called ‘Champions of Recovery: Recog- nizing Leaders in the Rehabilitation Industry’ focuses on the amazing people who refuse to accept these limitations. It is what their work is, the outstanding ability of the spirit – turning the treatment into the story of victory. They refresh our memory that medicine is not only about diseases, but also about giving people back their worth, chances to make something of themselves, and something to live for. When Care Transforms Lives I come across the story that goes beyond medical treatment and highlights the true essence of the miracle of healing and strength of a human spirit. n the world of healthcare, there is an area, which is not very popular but is actually very powerful – rehabilita- tion. When we turn the page of this month’s issue we The World Health Organization’s goal of increasing the availability of rehabilitation at every level of care is a promising start, and a very long time coming. Yet, the stark reality remains sobering: as many as 50% of those requiring it are still unable to access basic rehabilitative services especially in L&MICs. While flipping through these pages, you will discover success stories and initiatives that defy expectations, overcome prejudices and highlight the role of rigorous professional work of rehabilitation specialists. Welcome to a celebration of recovery, resilience and remarkable human potential! This is not just a matter of percentages; it is millions of people’s stories of possible disrupted, of lives in need of healing. Each unaddressed rehabilitation need is a missed opportunity to rebuild, to reconnect, to reclaim independ- ence.

6. CO NT S NTE Profile 08 JD Kalmenson Enriching Lives through Compassionate Leadership

7. CXO 16 Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy Articles 12 20 Critical Care Recovery Assessing Rehabilita?on Services for Survivors of Severe Illness Person-Centered Rehabilitation Tailoring Recovery Strategies to Individual Needs

8. April 2025 2025

9. CHAMPIONS OF RECOVERY: RECOGNIZING LEADERS IN THE REHABILITATION INDUSTRY Featuring Person Organiza?on Brief Brendan is a passionate leader dedicated to transforma?ve recovery, fostering hope and healing through innova?ve, compassionate care for individuals overcoming addic?on. Holdfast Recovery holdfastrecovery.com Brendan McDonough CEO JD Kalmenson’s passion for recovery drives innova?ve mental health solu?ons, blending holis?c care with cu?ng- edge therapies. His leadership fosters hope, transforming lives across diverse communi?es through dedicated, comprehensive wellness approaches. Montare Behavioral Health montarebehavioralhealth.com JD Kalmenson Founder & CEO Josh is a visionary leader dedicated to healing veterans and first responders through innova?ve addic?on and mental health programs, fostering resilience and recovery. Josh lannon Founder & CEO Warriors Heart warriorsheart.com Lora is a visionary leader commi?ed to empowering recovery, guiding individuals toward las?ng sobriety with comprehensive, personalized treatment and unwavering support. New Choices Treatment Centers newchoicestc.com Lora Tomlinson CEO Nancy is a dynamic execu?ve driving transforma?ve rehabilita?on care, advancing research, and empowering individuals with disabili?es to achieve their fullest poten?al. Shirley Ryan AbilityLab sralab.org Nancy Paridy President

10. Champions of Recovery: Recognizing Leaders in the Rehabilita?on Industry JD Kalmenson JD Kalmenson Enriching Lives through Compassionate Leadership T figure whose dedication to the well-being of others is nothing short of inspirational—JD Kalmenson, the visionary Founder and CEO of a group of behavioral health companies including Montare Behavioral Health, Renewal Health Group, Zenith Behavioral Health, and Conscious Health, institutions of hope and healing in Southern California and Arizona. Elevating Lives through Behavioral Health he rehabilitation industry demands leaders driven by a profound passion for helping others reclaim their lives. In this landscape of care there emerges a Kalmenson's early career took root in his rabbinical training, leading him to volunteer as a chaplain in US prisons. Encountering diverse challenges, he observed the capacity of some to transcend misdeeds while others were haunted by their past. Reflecting on those early days, he remembers realizing that "Every saint has a past, every sinner has a future." This insight motivated him to contribute to preventing and treating trauma. In the pursuit of preventative health, Kalmenson emphasizes the importance of feeling affirmed, seen, and loved, and finding one's role in society. He believes these experiences could deter feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, prime emotions leading to a life of crime. Under Kalmenson's guidance, these companies introduce fresh and innovative approaches to mental health treatment and holistic wellness. The facilities, strategically located across several states and cities, specialize in addressing a spectrum of disorders, including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, personality disorders, schizoaffective disorder, substance abuse disorder, and bipolar disorder. This inspiration sparked a journey with co-founder Elliott Liebhard into behavioral health. They established treatment centers addressing substance use disorders, primary mental health, eating disorders, adolescent acute care, and outpatient clinics with the central directive to help folks discover purpose and meaning in their lives. Quoting Mark Twain, he notes, "The two most important days in a person's life are the day they were born and the day they figure out why." What sets Kalmenson's companies apart is not only their commitment to cutting-edge therapeutic approaches but also the holistic philosophy that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. The journey from a modest six-bed treatment center to a comprehensive network with over seven hundred staff members reflects not just growth, but a commitment to maintaining a boutique attention to detail. Kalmenson's dedication extends beyond the confines of directing his various Behavioral Health companies. Hosting the bi-monthly podcast, "Discover U," for Montare Media, he engages with industry experts and authorities, shedding light on complex mental health and chemical dependency issues. Kalmenson emphasizes, "Bringing that "why" back into mental health is central to our philosophy, so that it's not merely viewed as a crisis intervention and symptom stabilization, but as an opportunity for folks to get in touch with a part of themselves that they may have never realized they had." The Power of Emotional Connection in Mental Health Care Our interaction with Kalmenson provides insights into his remarkable story, exploring the challenges, triumphs, and the driving force behind all of his behavioral health companies. Kalmenson's early experiences as a chaplain left a lasting impact, inspiring him to restore basic dignity and existential InsightsCare April 2025 8

11. value to those suffering from mental disorders. This inspiration led him and his partner Liebhard to the establishment of treatment centers grounded in authenticity, empathy, and purpose. One memorable encounter highlights the transformative potential of emotional connection. Kalmenson recounts sitting with a tall, intimidating inmate during spiritual meditations. Despite initial reservations about a hug, Kalmenson embraced the opportunity. Recounting the experience, he shares, "I was somewhat cautious about going in for a deep hug, just thinking about where those hands might've been, or what they might've done. As he invited me to the hug, I initially gave him a rather limp frozen hug, but as I felt myself being lifted off the ground slightly, I decided 'I'm going all in. 'I gave him a hug with all the authenticity I could muster. After what seemed like an eternity - I saw that he got very emotional after the hug, and he looked at me and he said, 'perhaps had I had more of those hugs, I wouldn't be here today.'" Kalmenson further expresses, "So more of those figurative emotional hugs and embraces, more making people feel valued and recognizing their intrinsic and non-negotiable dignity, is not only a part of our intervention, but an essential component in the prevention of the traumas and the relapses that so often occur." JD Kalmenson CEO & Founder Montare Behavioral Health In their exploration of treatment centres, Liebhard and Kalmenson noticed a gap between spoken values and actual implementation. Kalmenson stresses the importance of cultivating a culture where staff personifies empathy and authenticity, creating a safe space for clients. He states, "We believe that having a culture where the staff truly personifies empathy and authenticity and creates a space of safety and non-judgment for the clients to be able to discover their purpose, is equally important to the actual interventions themselves." I try to live my life according to a solu?on-oriented paradigm—seeing challenges as opportuni?es to contribute, and to give whatever talents God gave me towards making this world, our world, be?er than it was before I entered it. A Shared Philosophy for Empowerment and Compassion Liebhard and Kalmenson share a cohesive leadership philosophy, emphasizing alignment with individuals who resonate with their core values. Seeking those who embrace empowerment, competence, and compassion, they integrate these principles into their collaborative efforts. While adherence to established management systems is crucial, InsightsCare April 2025 9

12. granting autonomy in decision-making is equally prioritized. Kalmenson emphasizes, "Our belief hinges on discovering individuals whose values align with ours, valuing a work ethic steeped in thoroughness and empathy over a standardized résumé." Encouraging leaders to set an example, they champion the integration of unique styles into leadership, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in contributions. This investment transcends a job, becoming an intrinsic part of professional identity. In creating such an environment, the focus is on reducing burnout by ensuring fulfillment and recognition. This approach aims to instill a profound sense of purpose, making work more than just a job, and contributing to the overall well-being of individuals within the healthcare setting. Pioneering Personalized Care Kalmenson emphasizes the uniqueness of their philosophy, focusing on the revival of truly customized treatment. Drawing a comparison to a tailor crafting a personalized suit, who has only one fabric and style to work with, he comments that in most behavioral health centers, the common approach is to size up a set of modalities based solely on symptoms. "We believe that no two identical symptoms necessarily have the same causation or the same underlying issue," Kalmenson asserts. Understanding the root cause is fundamental to designing effective treatment and aftercare. To achieve this, they employ the proprietary "Discovery Model," crafted by Kalmenson and Chief Clinical Director, Dr. Tiffany Nauman. and to utilize his talents for the betterment of the world. Reflecting on his approach, he shares, "We are all faced with times when things don't go as we've planned, and instead of getting frustrated, I make a conscious effort to see challenges as opportunities to grow and contribute, and to give whatever talents God gave me towards making this world, our world, better than it was before I entered it." The hallmark of the Discovery Model lies in its truly individualized battery of assessments. This approach goes beyond merely analyzing symptoms to explore the pathways and causations that have led to the symptoms. By exploring the unique circumstances of each individual, they aim to provide treatment that is tailored to the specific needs and underlying issues of the person, a departure from the one-size-fits-all approach often found in behavioral health programs. For Kalmenson, the essence lies in living the best version of oneself, and giving one's all, with outcomes taking a back seat to the effort invested. He expresses, "It's not necessarily about the outcomes as much as it is about giving it my all." Maintaining optimism, Kalmenson acknowledges that making a difference isn't solely dependent on him. He emphasizes the importance of doing one's part and remaining patient amid delays and temporary failures. "Very seldom do we get the type of ambitious, satisfactory results that we want from the first round. It takes practice. And having that patience is vital, and that patience is predicated on humility." Kalmenson's Approach to Challenges and Contribution Kalmenson is committed to a solution-oriented paradigm, where challenges are viewed as opportunities to contribute, InsightsCare April 2025 10

14. Critical Care Recovery Assessing REHABILITATION SERVICES for Survivors of Severe Illness InsightsCare April 2025 12

15. atients who have experienced severe illnesses, such P rehabilitation services. This is meant to help them regain their physiological, cognitive, and psychologic health status such as in order to optimize their quality of life. as stroke and other severe illness patients, and are in need of intensive care, can benefit from This article discusses the current rehabilitation service landscape and their utilization and barriers to access, concluding a general appraisal about overall effects on recovery among survivors. Understanding Rehabilitation Services Rehabilitation Services are therapeutic services provided with an objective of aspiring for good function in the patient’s life span. Some of the frequent ones contain Physical Therapy- a treatment that concerns improving physical fitness, Occupational Therapy- a treatment that aims to help one regain skills he requires to carry out basic tasks, Speech Therapy-a therapy that involves organizing correct speech and swallowing disorders. Finally, the Psychological Support is present to deal with the psychological problems which are caused by the illness. All these services are very useful for patients with severe illnesses, because after the treatment they have significant physical and cognitive disabilities and are unable to care for themselves. InsightsCare April 2025 13

16. Utilization of Rehabilitation Services physical function, and cognitive abilities. Despite all this, many of these patients continue to face some chronic challenges, such as persistent pain and sensory impairments, even after intensive rehabilitation. A number of research studies show that knowledge and utilization of rehabilitation services differ across different populations. For example, among stroke survivors, a study reported that while 70.9% knew of the rehabilitation services, only 67% utilized the same. The urban population is more likely to seek rehabilitation services compared to their rural counterparts (81.2% vs. 45.5%). This is attributed to the better availability and accessibility of such services. The Role of Healthcare Providers Healthcare providers are a gateway of access to rehabilitation services. The role of the healthcare providers includes informing the patients on the available rehabilitation options and their benefits. Advocating for more resources in underserved areas to ensure that all patients have access to needed services. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to provide individualized rehabilitation plans suited to the needs of the individual patient. A large proportion of patients cited lack of awareness about available services as the main barrier to utilization. Financial constraints and lack of transportation also appeared as critical barriers for many individuals seeking rehabilitation. By doing this, health providers can enhance the bridge between the awareness and utilization of rehabilitation services. Barriers to Accessing Rehabilitation Services Despite the obvious benefits of rehabilitation, many survivors are denied access due to several barriers: Future Directions • Lack of Awareness: The majority of patients lack sufficient information about what services are offered at the rehabilitation center and how you can use them. Availability of Services: In rural regions there seems to be a scarcity of educated and skilled specialists and rehabilitation centers. Financial Constraints: Rehabilitation is costly and this cost plays a major role in discouraging qualified candidates to access the necessary care. Transportation Issues: One limitation is that it becomes awkward to get to the rehabilitation centers, especially by casual means or if one is immobile or lives far from an urban area. Numerous measures that could be undertaken in enhancing the efficiency of rehabilitation services to survivors of severe illness, which include, provision of more resources in terms of development of rehabilitation facilities in the rural areas, which enhances access, public education measures towards increasing the utilization rate of rehabilitation facilities, and constant research for effective rehabilitation methods towards improved results for survivors. • • • Conclusion Rehabilitation services play a very important role in recovery from severe illnesses. The level of awareness and utilization continues to improve, but huge barriers still exist, hindering access to such an important service for many individuals. Addressing these challenges by way of education, resource allocation, and coordinated care would allow us to enhance the outcome of recovery for all survivors and move them toward better quality of life and independence. The dismantling of these barriers will make a way for enhancing the availability of rehabilitation services and make sure all survivors required the facilities get them. Impact of Rehabilitation in Recovery Rehabilitation does profoundly affect recovery outcomes. Several studies have established that rehabilitation service users have improved health outcomes compared to nonusers. For instance, a stroke survivor who had engaged in physiotherapy and occupational therapy reported improved functional ability and quality of life. The commitment from healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities is an important factor in this work to ensure that each survivor receives comprehensive care so as to thrive after the illness. - Pearl Shaw Rehabilitation, in critically ill patients, reveals significant improvements in their overall health-related quality of life, InsightsCare April 2025 14

17. GLOBAL SUBSCRIPTION Subscribe to InsightsCare and get the magazine in print and digital format.

18. Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy About the Author: Tony Budden is passionate about changing the way we see and use natural medicines. As the CEO of PsyLabs, he works to ensure that psychedelic therapies are developed safely and responsibly, helping people nd healing when they need it most. With a background in wellness, plant medicine advocacy, and sustainable business, Tony believes in using science, compassion, and education to improve lives.

19. How Does It Work? A New Frontier in Palliative Care A most promising and profound of these is psychedelic- assisted psychotherapy (PAP) — a therapeutic model that combines the responsible, controlled use of psychedelic compounds with guided psychotherapy to help patients navigate deep psychological distress. Nowhere is the need for such relief more urgent than in the field of palliative care. s the global conversation around mental health evolves, new tools and treatments are emerging that challenge conventional approaches. One of the Psychedelics work by temporarily disrupting the brain’s default mode network — the part responsible for ego, self- narrative, and rumination. This allows patients to step outside of their habitual thought patterns, experience a greater sense of unity and connectedness, and often confront and release unresolved emotional trauma. When guided safely by trained professionals, this altered state can help patients reframe their relationship with death, leading to reduced suffering and a renewed ability to find meaning in the time they have left. What is Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy? Potential Benefits in Palliative Care PAP is a structured therapeutic process where patients are given a controlled dose of a psychedelic substance, such as psilocybin (the active compound in magic mushrooms), in a safe, supportive, and professionally guided setting. This is not recreational use. It is a clinical, intentional experience supported by trained therapists and rooted in research protocols. For those facing a terminal diagnosis, the psychological burden is often as heavy as the physical symptoms. PAP offers a unique tool to: • • • • Alleviate anxiety and depression Reduce existential distress and fear of death Improve quality of life in their final months Foster a sense of peace, forgiveness, and closure The psychedelic experience is combined with preparatory sessions and follow-up integration therapy, helping patients process the insights, emotions, and meaning that often emerge during their journey. It is not a magic pill, but for many, it can be a deeply healing experience that traditional medications and talk therapy have struggled to achieve. Research in Palliative Care The Path Ahead Over the last decade, several landmark studies have explored the impact of PAP on patients facing life- threatening illnesses, particularly cancer. Trials at institutions like NYU, Johns Hopkins, and UCLA have shown that a single dose of psilocybin, combined with psychotherapy, can lead to dramatic reductions in anxiety, depression, and existential distress in palliative care patients — with effects lasting six months or more after just one session. While regulatory hurdles still exist, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy is gaining traction worldwide. Health authorities in Canada, Australia, and parts of the U.S. have already granted compassionate access exemptions for terminally ill patients. In time, this model may become a standard option within the broader field of palliative care. As we continue to research, refine, and responsibly integrate these therapies, psychedelicassisted psychotherapy has the potential to revolutionize end-of-life care — not by prolonging life, but by improving how we live and die. Participants in these studies consistently report: • • • A profound sense of peace Reduced fear of death A deeper sense of connection to themselves, their loved ones, and the world around them An increase in acceptance and emotional well-being •

22. Person-Centered Rehabilitation InsightsCare April 2025 20

23. Tailoring Recovery S t r a t e g i e s to Individual Needs I n the area of health and rehabilitation, the acknowledgment of the uniqueness of everyone's recovery has led to customized recovery plans. Customized recovery plans address the particular needs, preferences, and circumstances of each individual to have a more efficient and interactive recovery process. This article covers the importance, development, advantages, and elements of tailored recovery strategies. Understanding Customized Recovery Plans A customized recovery plan is a comprehensive treatment that tailors healing strategies by addressing the needs of particular people. This means doing individualized rehabilitation programs taken into account not only aspects of physical health but also mentally, emotionally, and socially related ones. The aim is therefore to provide a holistic framework for support that empowers these individuals to take charge of themselves and their recovery journey. The Creation Process A customized recovery plan has very critical steps. There should be a comprehensive review of the client's medical history, current health status, and personal goals. This review enables pinpointing specific challenges and strengths that will inform the recovery strategy. The jointly defined clear, achievable goals are what enable people to know what they want to do during their recovery process. InsightsCare April 2025 21

24. With this evaluation and goals, healthcare providers can select appropriate therapies and interventions. Some may be in the form of physical therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, or holistic approaches such as yoga and nutrition counseling. Family, friends, and community resources are engaged to ensure a strong support network for all aspects of recovery. that the process is still beneficial and useful. Habits enable needed corrections to be made when the event is happening. Aftercare Planning: Continuing proper preparations when the formal treatment plan is at an end is a major key to overcoming obesity. Some form of follow up care may include, counseling, administrative and referral for aftercare services when the patient is ready to be discharged from the program but not fully recovered from the sickness. • Benefits of Tailored Customized Recovery Plans The benefits of implementing customized recovery plans are many when people feel that their treatment is tailored to their needs, they are more likely to be actively involved in the process. Such a feeling of ownership encourages commitment to the recovery plan. A defined plan offers a clear path to individuals, leading them through their recovery process with structured support designed according to their specific circumstances. Challenges in Implementing Customized Plans Although the benefits are many, challenges do exist about the wide-scale implementation of personalized recovery strategies. As care is tailored, it necessitates professional, well-trained practitioners and sufficient capital. In the light of these disadvantages, most health care facilities lack these necessities as they attempt to fulfill the current increased demands for individualized services. Customized plans can really address the underlying issues that bring one to their knees. Thus, targeting trauma or mental health conditions may make clinicians more successful in devising effective coping strategies. Recovery is rarely linear and often full of setbacks. Personalized plans are amenable to adjustments based on ongoing assessments and changing needs. Treatment is sure to remain relevant and effective. Balancing standardized protocols that ensure efficiency with personalized approaches that enhance individual care can be complex. Health leaders have to find ways to incorporate flexibility within established frameworks. Conclusion Components of Customized Recovery Plans The shift towards tailored recovery strategies reflects the most significant step made so far in terms of approach to health and recovery. It recognizes the specific journey of each individual as different, thus providing care that not only caters for the immediate needs but fosters long-term wellness also. A comprehensive customized recovery plan typically includes several key components: Personalized Treatment Modalities: Each plan encompasses several types of therapy depending on the case of the person in need of a plan. This may involve taking a patient through medication dependent treatment for any cases of substance use disorders or availing the rehab equipment in view of offering physical therapy treatment to any patient needing it due to an injury. Holistic Approaches: These healthcare practices like mindfulness or nutritionists’ classes include steps for an all-embracing approach to touch the patient’s physical and mental aspects during the time of recovery. Regular Monitoring and Evaluation: Monitoring the effectiveness of the treatment process guarantees us • As personalized approaches advance through various fields, starting from addiction recovery to postoperative care, the prospect for improved outcomes is clear in itself. Ultimately, tailored recovery plans empower people by providing them with tools for meeting their specific needs along the trajectory of rehabilitation and healing. • - Pearl Shaw • InsightsCare April 2025 22

26. a courageous step.“ Healing takes time, and asking for help is