Recognized Clinical Documentation Leaders 2025

My professional journey began over 27 years ago as a Mental Health Specialist at a psychiatric hospital, evolving into a successful hypnotherapy practice that has helped thousands of people overcome personal challenges. I hold a Diploma in Hypnotherapy from HMI College of Hypnotherapy, a Wellness Counseling Certificate from Cornell University, and a Specialization in Integrative Health and Medicine from the University of Minnesota. What sets my practice apart is the use of pioneering techniques that push the boundaries of traditional hypnosis. Through my award-winning book "The Magic in Metaphor," I've demonstrated how storytelling creates profound emotional shifts, using carefully crafted metaphors to help children reframe challenges and discover new perspectives. I've also produced a unique approach to suggestion delivery through "Close Your Eyes," a collection of sleep music that weaves hypnotic suggestions into lo-fi compositions. Most significantly, I've developed Placebo-Enhanced Hypnotic Intervention™, my signature method that harnesses the scientifically-proven power of the placebo effect to amplify hypnotic outcomes, essentially helping clients activate their own "internal pharmacy" for healing and change. These innovative approaches reflect my commitment to evolving hypnotherapy by combining evidence-based science with creative techniques. Through Zoom for Healthcare, I work with clients nationwide—without losing the human connection that makes hypnosis so effective. My extensive client feedback, documented case studies, and reputation among healthcare workers have established me as a trusted and sought-after professional.

I am a seasoned mental health and addiction specialist, dedicated to the field of treatment and recovery since 2015. I hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in clinical mental health counseling from South University in Royal Palm Beach, FL, and I am credentialed as both a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS). Over the years, I've gained hands-on experience in various areas, including psychiatric acute stabilization, psychiatric partial hospitalization, and both in-patient and out-patient substance use treatment. My journey has taken me through clinical counseling, program development, and organizational leadership. Before joining New Waters, I served as the Clinical Director at Gupta Psychiatry and Wellness in Raleigh, NC, where I helped shape a respected substance abuse partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient program. I am a firm believer in the transformative power of quality clinical programming and its impact on long-term sobriety. With a compassionate approach, I am committed to helping individuals and families overcome substance use disorders, guiding them toward a life free from addiction.

Juan Luis Garrido is a DEI Project Consultant at Center Desk Consulting whose work bridges strategy, facilitation, and communication to help organizations design more equitable, human-centered experiences. In his current role, he supports nonprofit and corporate clients in deepening their diversity, equity, and inclusion commiments through participatory methods, co-created initiatives, and systems-level thinking. With a background that spans nonprofit leadership and social impact consulting, he is known for his ability to build trust across sectors and center lived experience in meaningful, actionable ways. Juan Luis holds a Master of Design in Strategic Foresight and Innovation from OCAD University, where his graduate research explored the role of joy as a critical resource for practitioners in social change work. His work reflects a deep belief that joy, care, and imagination are not distractions from equity work, but vital components of its sustainability and impact.

As a Legal Storyteller, I bridge the gap between the legal and media worlds, using my background in investigative journalism and video production to deliver powerful narratives for attorneys and their clients. My work centers on crafting settlement documentaries, day-in-the-life videos, and demand videos—stories that go beyond mere facts to resonate with the human experience. I’ve seen firsthand the impact of strategic storytelling on legal outcomes, and I’m committed to helping attorneys communicate their cases in ways that drive results. A former professional screenwriter with nearly two decades of investigative reporting and producing experience, including three Emmy nominations, I bring a high standard of journalism and a creative, impactful approach to every project. My process is research-driven: I dig deep through public records, analyze court documents, and engage with the finer details to uncover elements that give each story its fullest context. Whether it’s uncovering OSHA reports, logging body-worn camera footage, or bringing the voices of families to life, I believe every narrative should be built on a foundation of truth and emotional clarity. I currently lead Clear Eyed Media, specializing in legal media services and leveraging my experience to transform complex legal stories into compelling, accessible content. From wrongful death cases to personal injury, I’m dedicated to creating narratives that support attorneys in securing fair settlements for their clients. I aim to support legal professionals with media that not only informs but also resonates with adjusters, defendants, and sometimes even juries. I also run Tribute Video Pro, producing personalized tribute videos celebrating lives and moments worth remembering. This work has allowed me to bring a similar storytelling approach to personal occasions, blending professional videography with an intimate look at individuals’ lives. Each project reminds me of storytelling's power to connect and convey meaning, whether in a legal context or a personal one. Driven by a belief in the power of story to influence and inspire, I’m here to help attorneys and clients present their cases authentically and precisely. I see storytelling as an essential tool for justice and creating lasting impact.

I entered the field of recovery as a drug and alcohol counselor, driven by a deep understanding of the importance of treatment and a newfound sense of purpose. This calling led me to make a career change that I approach with immense gratitude. Over time, I transitioned into the role of Director at Serenity Services, and I now serve as the CEO of Ascendant NY. My journey, shaped by both personal and professional experiences, fuels my commitment to providing treatment with humility, compassion, and dignity. As a leader, I work closely with my team to evolve the traditional culture of detox facilities, striving to fill the gaps where treatment often falls short. I’m dedicated to creating individualized, client-centered care, ensuring that every person who walks through our doors feels seen, valued, and supported.

I’m a lifesciences compliance strategist with a passion for building real-world, right-sized programs in fast-moving environments. With deep experience in pharma and medtech, I specialize in translating regulatory complexity into practical, actionable frameworks. I’ve spent 7+ years navigating the gray areas of compliance—from training physicians on industry expectations to building startup programs from the ground up. I believe compliance should be ethical, functional, and human-centered—and that culture is built through clarity, storytelling, and respect, not fear. Outside of policy and audits, I speak regularly on startup compliance and love turning “boring” topics into memorable moments. I'm here to connect, create, and contribute.

Most organizations don’t fail because of bad strategy. They fail because they can’t follow through. That’s where I come in. I work with executive teams to close the gap between vision and execution, building the structure, accountability, and focus needed to deliver measurable results. My expertise spans SEO, direct primary care strategy, and business consulting, with a proven record of scaling healthcare membership by 170 percent and generating $82 million in federal economic impact. Whether leading complex initiatives or rebuilding underperforming systems, I drive clarity, align operations, and create momentum that lasts.

Jonathan JK Stoltman, PhD is Director of the Opioid Policy Institute, a research think tank that uses multipronged approaches to better understand gaps in treatment and recovery services. In 2019, he completed his PhD in Lifespan Developmental Psychology from West Virginia University and has worked as a researcher focusing on opioid addiction treatment and recovery for more than a decade. During this time, Jonathan’s academic work has appeared in leading journals, conferences, and media outlets.

I am the CEO of ANR Clinic®, where we focus on pioneering a transformative approach to opioid dependency treatment. Our method aims to restore the endorphin-receptor balance disrupted by opioid use, reversing dependency instead of merely managing symptoms. With a background in education from The Open University of Israel and a professional base in Tampa, I am committed to reshaping opioid recovery. Our innovative strategy has gained recognition, including media coverage in outlets like Newsmax, for its potential to improve patient outcomes and address the root causes of opioid addiction.

I'm an animator and creative director running my small studio. I'm also a content creator using design and animation for my studio and niche websites

Howard Friedman, MD Cleveland, OH 44124 Email: drfriedman@hhomllc.com | Phone: 332-268-1006 Professional Summary Board-certified Internal Medicine physician and U.S. Army veteran with over 30 years of clinical experience, now leading a national telehealth consulting practice. Formerly a senior VA physician and medical manager, I bring a deep understanding of disability medicine, chronic disease management, and veteran healthcare. As founder of HHOM LLC, I provide personalized medical opinions, Nexus Letters, and preventative health education to veterans, attorneys, and consulting agencies. Licensed in Ohio and Pennsylvania, I remain committed to evidence-based care, integrity in medical evaluation, and expanding access through virtual platforms. Work Experience • Founder & Medical Consultant, Howard’s House of Medicine (HHOM LLC) – Cleveland, OH (Jan 2024 – Present): Founded a national telehealth-based consulting practice focused on veteran advocacy, Nexus Letters, and preventative health education. Provides evidence-based opinions and teleconsultations to veterans and legal professionals. • Independent Physician Consultant – Cleveland, OH (Oct 2021 – Dec 2023): Transitioned from clinical practice to consultative telemedicine and legal medical review. • Medical Manager / Lead Physician, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Willoughby, OH (Jan 2002 – Oct 2021): Directed outpatient services, led telemedicine programs, supervised interdisciplinary care teams, and earned multiple performance awards. • Staff Physician, University Hospitals of Cleveland – Cleveland, OH (Jun 2000 – Sep 2002): Managed practice integration and clinical continuity. • Staff Physician, Mount Sinai Health Care System – Cleveland, OH (Aug 1995 – Jun 2000): Delivered outpatient care and participated in practice transitions. • Staff Physician, Center for Internal Medicine – Beachwood, OH (Aug 1993 – Jul 1995): Developed outpatient services, conducted inpatient rounds, and taught medical residents. Certifications and Licenses • Board Certified, Internal Medicine, National Board of Physicians and Surgeons (NBPAS), 2025–2027 • Medical License – Ohio, Active through Jan 2027 • Medical License – Pennsylvania, Active • DEA License, Schedule 2, 2N, 3 – Valid through 2027

I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist, Duke MBA graduate, and founder of shrinkMD, a national virtual mental health platform dedicated to providing accessible, high quality psychiatric care to adults. With over a decade of clinical experience, I’ve treated individuals from all walks of life ranging from high performing executives and elite athletes to students and underserved populations. My approach blends deep clinical insight with the strategic thinking of a healthcare entrepreneur, giving me a unique lens into the future of mental health care. My background in sports psychiatry includes consulting roles with professional organizations like the NFL and Jacksonville Jaguars, where I’ve supported athletes in navigating performance pressure, identity challenges, and psychological recovery from injury. These experiences have sharpened my focus on mental resilience, optimization, and the intricate connection between mind and body. I'm widely recognized for my work in urgent care psychiatry, helping patients find rapid, effective relief from acute mental health challenges without the long wait times that plague traditional systems. At shrinkMD, I lead a care model rooted in the biopsychosocial and spiritual framework, ensuring that every individual is treated as more than a diagnosis honoring their unique history, strengths, and personal bandwidth. Beyond clinical care, I’m deeply committed to addressing the systemic barriers that keep people from accessing mental health services whether that’s a lack of providers, financial constraints, stigma, or outdated delivery models. My work sits at the intersection of mental health innovation, digital health, and patient centered care, and I’m passionate about changing the narrative around what psychiatric support can look like in today’s world. I am a trusted voice on a range of topics, including telepsychiatry, burnout, workplace mental health, healthcare equity, emotional wellness, performance psychology, and the future of virtual care. I provide clear, concise, and thought provoking commentary that connects clinical science with real life relevance whether it's for national media, healthcare publications, or expert panels. If you're seeking an authoritative, articulate, and forward thinking mental health expert, I’m available to provide expert insight, commentary, and collaborative thought leadership.