From Marketing to Mission: True Differentiation in Behavioral Health with Jen Carvalho

In this episode, host Clint sits down with Jen Carvalho, CEO of The Haven at College, to explore what truly sets behavioral health organizations apart. With over 20 years of executive experience and a personal journey in recovery, Jen shares her insights on authentic differentiation, leadership, and building a culture that delivers real impact for clients and staff alike. If you work in behavioral health, lead a team, or want to build a brand that stands out, this conversation is packed with actionable wisdom.

— Explore mental health and addiction treatment options: https://recovery.com/

— Learn more about The Haven At College: https://thehavenatcollege.com/

— Connect with Jen on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-carvalhobh/

Key Discussion Points
• Why most treatment centers sound the same—and how to break out of the sameness trap
• The difference between external marketing and internal culture
• How authentic clinical philosophy drives real differentiation
• The importance of showcasing your team, not just your facilities
• High turnover in behavioral health: causes and solutions
• Building a culture of appreciation, ownership, and engagement
• The power of niche: why The Haven focuses on college students
• Aligning marketing and clinical teams for brand integrity
• Leadership’s role in creating a healing, resilient organization
• Jen’s personal recovery journey and how it shapes her leadership

Timestamped Show Notes
0:00 – Introduction to the episode and guest, Jen Carvalho
0:35 – Jen’s background: CEO of The Haven at College, 20+ years in behavioral health, personal recovery story
1:18 – Why “differentiation” in treatment centers is often just surface-level marketing
2:37 – The real value: deep clinical philosophy and internal focus
4:39 – The challenge of turnover and why many centers don’t showcase their staff
7:48 – How to honor and elevate your team, and why it matters for clients
8:48 – Industry turnover rates: 35-40% and the emotional toll of the work
10:10 – Burnout, career advancement, and the need for self-care in behavioral health
11:57 – Jen’s approach to building culture and professional development
13:37 – The importance of supporting staff and recognizing their impact
16:22 – Authentic differentiation: supporting clinicians’ passions and specialties
18:10 – Telling stories of change: making clinicians and staff the heroes
20:22 – The role of every team member in creating a healing environment
22:06 – The power of niche: why The Haven focuses on college students and the benefits of specialization
25:36 – Marketing vs. clinical: bridging the gap for brand authenticity
28:36 – Leadership’s responsibility: vision, culture, and empowering teams
31:32 – Jen’s recovery journey and how it informs her leadership style
34:37 – Final thoughts: the value of focus, alignment, and human connection in behavioral health