Success Stories in Addiction Treatment Network

by Greg LaRose, Editor. Published: September 12th, 2012

There are so many levels to the success story for Townsend, a network of addiction treatment centers in south Louisiana, it’s hard to know where to begin.

There’s the pure business story of Townsend, where revenues raced from $218,000 in 2008 to $4.4 million last year. So far this year, the company has added 30 employees to reach 70.

From left: Townsend partners Dr. Howard Wetsman, chief medical officer; Dr. Kevin Jordan, president and chief operating officer; and Michael Handley, CEO. (photo by Frank Aymami)

Then there’s the science behind Townsend’s medical approach to addiction treatment. As I understand it, physicians tackle the chemical causes of addiction and evaluate a patient’s genetics to create pinpoint solutions. New Orleans psychiatrist Dr. Howard Wetsman, the company’s chief medical officer, acquired Townsend in 2009. Dr. Kevin Jordan, former chief medical officer at Touro Infirmary, became a partner in 2010.

And then there’s the personal side of the business.

CEO Michael Handley, a New Orleans native, has an extensive track record as an entrepreneur. He built a software technology firm from the ground up and led it through a lucrative initial public offering before selling it in 2000.

Two years later, Handley says he “went off the deep end.” Alcoholism reduced him to mowing lawns to make ends meet. But in 2003, he sought help and has been sober since January 2004.

“I got a second chance at life,” he said.

Recovery meant a new career opportunity for Handley, who started off as an addiction treatment technician collecting urine samples and eventually became a licensed counselor. His business acumen would help shape the Townsend method.

After being medically stabilized, clients are treated on an ongoing basis through regular appointments that are less intrusive than classic 90-day inpatient treatment programs. Treatment takes place without the person having to risk losing their job or leaving their family.

This aspect appeals to employers, said Handley, who sees opportunity in the maritime industry, construction and other areas where injuries heighten the risk of addiction. The cost of a year of treatment through Townsend comes to one-half the cost of a month of inpatient care, Handley said, which appeals to insurers.

With those factors working in their favor, Townsend’s leadership expects additional regional growth.

From personal experience, Handley sees the potential beyond the bottom line.

“We’re providing a continuum of care,” he said.

Contact

Dan Forman
1-800-392-9186
info@addictiondoctor.org