Diane Hall, EdD candidate, MCP, MCAP, IC&RC
Diane Hall, EdD candidate, MCP, MCAP, IC&RC is a Subject Matter Expert in Substance Use Disorders and currently serves as a Senior Training and Technical Consultant at Manhattan Strategy Group. In this role she provides training, technical assistance, and helps develop curricula for opioid treatment programs and state authorities, and helping government agencies implement evidence-based approaches to substance use disorders treatment. Her work at MSG bridges clinical expertise and programmatic strategy, supporting systemic improvements in social services and behavioral health initiatives.
With extensive experience in addiction treatment and non-profit program development, Diane has designed and implemented programs for child welfare agencies, counseling centers, schools, and juvenile justice systems, most notably the Department of Children and Families and Soulful Recovery. She brings a trauma-informed and evidence-based perspective to her work, emphasizing individualized care and meeting people where they are. Her background in group counseling, forensic psychology, mental health, and program leadership allows her to address complex challenges within government social service programs.
Diane holds a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Northwestern Oklahoma State University and is a candidate for a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Performance Leadership. She is a licensed addiction counselor, holds an international addiction certification, and has served as a Subject Matter Expert since 2016 in substance use disorders for the state of Florida. Her focus at MSG reflects her commitment to improving recovery outcomes, expanding access to services, and advancing the effectiveness of government-funded social service programs.
• ICADC
• MCAP
• Northwestern Oklahoma State University - MCP
• Western Carolina University - BS
• Phi Theta Kappa
• Psi Chi
What do you attribute your success to?
My success has been shaped by a journey of service and continuous growth. I spent many years in law enforcement, earning two life-saving awards, where I witnessed first hand the intersection of the criminal justice system and active addiction which led me to seek out a career as a therapist, focusing on addiction and recovery, particularly within opioid treatment programs. I was inducted into and remain a member of Phi Theta Kappa and Psi Chi during my undergraduate studies. I worked hard to over come generational addiction in my family, completing three college degrees, including a transformative master’s. After graduating, I pursued multiple credentials, becoming a licensed addiction counselor, and earning an international addiction certification. Since 2016, I have served as a Subject Matter Expert providing consulting and training for programs starting out. In my current role, I provide technical assistance, training and work with my team to develop training materials around federal regulations for opioid treatment programs and state authorities, dedicated to reducing deadly overdoses and supporting long-term recovery.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received was to “master one thing instead of trying to learn everything.” Early in my career, a mentor encouraged me not to chase every opportunity or try to be good at everything. Instead, she advised me to focus on one area where I could become truly exceptional. That focus allowed me to build momentum, establish credibility, and opened doors organically. I’ve found that excellence in a single area consistently creates more opportunities than spreading yourself too thin across many.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to meet people where they are, give of yourself but keep strong boundaries, and lead with passion. Don’t rush your journey—growth takes time, so trust the process even when it’s not glamorous, and focus on learning deeply rather than quickly. Lead with integrity, as your reputation is your most valuable currency. Stay teachable; no matter how far you go, always be a student, because ego is the enemy of evolution. Choose purpose over popularity—when your work aligns with your values, fulfillment follows even through challenges. And finally, build real relationships: who you know matters, but who respects you matters even more.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges facing substance use disorder treatment today are stigma and lack of access to care. Opioid overdoses have become the leading cause of death among teens and young adults, which is heartbreaking. My approach has always been to meet people where they are, recognizing that everyone begins their recovery journey from a different place. Addiction is a disease, often brought on by trauma and not a moral failing. Our medical systems and society must reflect that truth. At the same time, this presents an opportunity: by promoting understanding, expanding access to care, and shaping compassionate policies, we can make a meaningful impact on recovery outcomes and save lives.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are respect and compassion. I strive to treat everyone I encounter with kindness and understanding, whether in a professional setting or in daily life. Outside of work, I stay grounded through traveling, being near water, reading—particularly on topics related to psychology and personal growth—and spending quality time with my children and dog, which continually inspire and recharge me.