Scott Dziengelski Takes the Helm of the National Association for Behavioral Healthcare

Scott Dziengelski: The New Leader of NABH

On April 13, 2026, Scott Dziengelski officially steps into the role of President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Association for Behavioral Healthcare (NABH), succeeding the previous leadership with a strong commitment and vision for enhancing behavioral healthcare policies. With nearly two decades of experience in healthcare policy and advocacy, Dziengelski is set to play a pivotal role in the advancement of behavioral health services across the nation.

Dziengelski comes from a solid background, having most recently contributed his expertise as a consultant for the FDA Life Sciences team at King & Spalding. In this position, he effectively advocated for legislative and regulatory changes before Congress and various federal agencies, including the U.S. Health and Human Services Department, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. His understanding of the complexities involved in healthcare systems and his ability to engage with diverse stakeholders will serve him well in his new role.

Throughout his multifaceted career, he has showcased a knack for developing and executing strategic policy initiatives. His deep knowledge of federal regulations will be crucial in helping NABH fulfill its mission of improving access to high-quality behavioral healthcare for all individuals.

Dziengelski has a storied history with NABH having previously held the position of Director of Policy and Regulatory Affairs from May 2017 until January 2020. His earlier contributions helped shape the organization’s policy agenda, and now as President and CEO, he’s expected to drive these initiatives forward. His previous roles also include serving as a legislative director in the U.S. House of Representatives and being part of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which is responsible for healthcare matters.

In welcoming Dziengelski, interim President and CEO Mark Covall remarked, "Scott's extensive policy expertise, leadership experience, and longstanding commitment to behavioral healthcare make him uniquely qualified to lead NABH at this critical time." Covall, who is also part of NABH's Board of Trustees, expressed excitement for Dziengelski's return and the impact his leadership will have on the association's goals.

Dziengelski holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy from American University and a Master’s degree in Psychology from Pepperdine University. His accolades in public service include being awarded a Medal of Merit by the United States Capitol Police and the Friend of Children's Mental Health Award from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. This academic and practical background strengthens his capability to tackle pressing issues surrounding mental health policies.

"I am honored to return to NABH and serve as its president and CEO," Dziengelski acknowledged. "NABH is vital in advocating for policies that expand access to high-quality behavioral healthcare. I am eager to collaborate with our team, members, policymakers, and allies to address the most urgent mental health and substance use challenges facing our nation today."

The National Association for Behavioral Healthcare has a rich history spanning almost a century. Since its inception in 1933, NABH has represented systems that provide vital care to individuals dealing with mental health issues and substance use disorders. The association encompasses a wide range of services including inpatient hospitals, residential treatment facilities, outpatient programs, and recovery support services across 49 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico.

Dziengelski's leadership comes at a critical time as the sector continues to address rising mental health issues exacerbated by societal challenges. With his extensive background and a clear vision for the future of behavioral healthcare, Scott Dziengelski is well-positioned to guide NABH through the complex landscape of healthcare policy and fulfill its mission of improving care access for all individuals in need.