Dave and Susan Kenney's connection evolved from a personal relationship into a powerful partnership aimed at reforming mental health and recovery. Their combined skills—Dave's leadership in education and Susan's entrepreneurial acumen in wellness—fueled a mission to innovate traditional recovery processes.
This mission took root in their early interactions with students, who sought their advice on various personal and academic issues. These moments revealed a significant need for a new, compassionate approach to mental health care. Motivated by these formative experiences, the Kenneys envisioned a recovery model that considered the neurological basis of mental health challenges, moving away from the stigma of moral judgment.
This led to Emergo, a residential program that applied a Eurocentric approach to recovery. The program's success was immediate, offering new hope and practical solutions for those struggling with addiction and mental health disorders. The Kenneys' approach, Actualized Recovery®, emphasizes integrating physical health, mental stability, spiritual growth, social bonds, and lifestyle management. This comprehensive strategy has revolutionized recovery for many, enabling them to tackle issues such as addiction, anxiety, and depression more effectively.
Dave and Susan established Emergo Academy to scale their impact. They aim to train 1,000 Crisis and Recovery Coaches to help one million individuals globally. This educational initiative teaches coaches how to implement Kenney's holistic recovery methods, promoting the widespread application of their innovative techniques.
Dave leverages his extensive education, developmental psychology background, and neuroscience research to lead both Emergo Recovery and Emergo Academy. As the Director of Therapeutic Wellness at Emergo Wellbeing, Susan integrates her nutrition, functional medicine, and psychology knowledge to enhance their recovery programs further.
Their combined efforts also produced "Actualized Recovery - It's Not About 12-Steps. Recovery Is A Brain Thing," a book that has become an international bestseller and significantly shaped the conversation around modern recovery practices.
The Kenneys' story is more than a tale of mutual support; it is a narrative of innovation and dedication to a cause greater than themselves. Their work has transformed thousands of lives and continues to inspire a new generation of health professionals. One can visit Emergo Academy's website or connect with Dave and Susan Kenney on LinkedIn to engage with their ongoing initiatives or start a transformative journey in mental health.