FLORENCE, SC, October 23, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- David Brooks has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Marked by nearly three decades of progressive leadership and program development, Mr. Brooks has become a prominent figure in the field of behavioral health. His expertise encompasses developing substance use disorder treatment programs from their inception, crafting policies and procedures, and fostering a collaborative and team-building culture with an emphasis on transformational leadership.

In 2025, Mr. Brooks assumed the role of executive director at Lotus Recovery SC, which connects proven care techniques with supportive communities to empower individuals and families to overcome their struggles with addiction. His responsibilities at the facility include conducting staff meetings, reviewing funding and clinical matters, updating policies and procedures, performing safety rounds and seeking ideas from his staff to drive program improvement. Furthermore, he manages licensing processes, facilitates therapy groups, develops program schedules and ensures the safety and financial sustainability of the environment. His commitment to excellence in every aspect of the company is reflected in his hands-on approach to both administrative oversight and direct client engagement.

Prior to joining Lotus Recovery, Mr. Brooks served as the executive director at The Owls Nest Recovery from 2023 to 2025. Focusing on enhancing clinical documentation practices and strengthening relationships with stakeholders, he successfully guided the organization through a period of growth and transition. His leadership contributed to improved program outcomes and increased visibility within the recovery community.

In 2022, Mr. Brooks held the position of chief executive officer at Ethan Crossing Recovery Center. During his tenure there, he spearheaded efforts to expand service offerings and implement evidence-based practices that addressed both substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. His strategic vision enabled the center to achieve significant milestones in client care and operational efficiency.

Mr. Brooks also served as the director of dual recovery and community integration at Erie County Department of Mental Health, where he developed integrated treatment models for individuals experiencing both substance use disorders and mental health challenges. His work emphasized community-based solutions and fostered partnerships with local agencies to improve access to comprehensive care.

As the chief executive officer of French Creek Recovery Center in 2020, Mr. Brooks directed organizational operations with a focus on quality improvement initiatives and regulatory compliance. He played a key role in securing accreditation for the center while mentoring emerging leaders within the organization.

For nearly two decades, Mr. Brooks served as a division director at Gaudenzia Inc., where he managed multiple residential and outpatient programs dedicated to substance use disorder treatment and mental health disorders. His leadership was pivotal in expanding services across several locations and implementing innovative approaches to various forms of client care.

Earlier in his career, Mr. Brooks worked at the Gertrude Barber Center in Erie with individuals who have intellectual disabilities. At that time, inpatient centers were utilized due to the absence of group homes or community options. His experience in a residential setting provided him with valuable insights into supporting those facing significant challenges — a foundation that informed his later work in co-occurring programs addressing both mental health and substance use disorders.

Throughout his professional journey, Mr. Brooks has been recognized for his compassionate response during times of crisis. Notably, as a therapist, he played a pivotal role following a tragic incident that involved the loss of an individual at a facility. In response, he coordinated the Employee Assistance Program and provided emotional support to both staff and clients during this difficult period — an effort that received special recognition from the chief executive officer. Additionally, his dedication was evident when he spent the night in a hospital supporting a client in crisis, underscoring his unwavering commitment to those he serves.

To expand his network and stay aware of best care practices, Mr. Brooks is an active member of industry-related organizations including the American College of Healthcare Executives, the American Society for Healthcare Risk Management, Addiction Professionals of South Carolina and the Pennsylvania Certification Board.

Academically, Mr. Brooks earned a master's degree in psychology from Capella University in 2009, which proved vital in developing his approach to clinical supervision, program development and organizational leadership within behavioral health settings. To augment his knowledge and qualifications, he is certified as a clinical supervisor specializing in addictions by both Addiction Professionals of South Carolina and the Pennsylvania Certification Board.

The foundation for Mr. Brooks' success is rooted in personal experience as well as family support. Having witnessed firsthand the impact of substance abuse on his family — including struggles faced by his biological father and several uncles — he was inspired to pursue a career dedicated to helping others overcome addiction. The encouragement from his mother throughout his life and career has been invaluable, while his wife has provided steadfast support during his educational pursuits and relocations for professional advancement.

Mentorship has played an equally vital role in Mr. Brooks' journey. He is especially grateful for the influence of Stacie Perez and Dave Stockton — his executive director and regional director at Gaudenzia, respectively — as well as Mark Sarneso and Dr. Mark Fuller, all of whom helped him shape his leadership approach while allowing him to ask questions and develop professionally.
Happily married and a proud father of four children, Mr. Brooks enjoys spending quality time with his family, sports, playing football, practicing martial arts and caring for goats as a balance to his professional commitments.

In the coming years, Mr. Brooks aspires to become recognized as a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and certified as a health care risk management professional (CPHRM). He remains dedicated to supporting colleagues and expanding the services offered by Lotus Recovery SC into additional locations across the United States. Defined by leadership excellence and a meaningful impact within behavioral health care, his legacy reflects not only professional achievement but also deep empathy for those facing adversity.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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