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From his earliest years in medicine, Dr. Adam Sagot has pursued a career defined by leadership, advocacy, and innovation. Today, as one of the youngest Chief Medical Officers in the nation and a widely recognized voice in psychiatry and mental health policy, he has established himself as a leading figure at the intersection of clinical care, executive management, and public advocacy. His journey reflects a deep commitment not only to patients and healthcare systems but also to shaping the broader policies and practices that define mental health care in America. Dr. Sagot’s foundation was laid in his medical training at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, followed by a rigorous residency there and fellowships in child and adolescent psychiatry, and forensic psychiatry with Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and The University of Pennsylvania. His academic path was further enhanced by certification in psychodynamic psychotherapy, demonstrating his dedication to understanding the full human experience of mental illness. This breadth of training set the stage for a career that would be as much about systems change as it is about individual patient care. Early in his career, Dr. Sagot distinguished himself through scholarly contributions and teaching appointments. His lectures and publications—ranging from advocacy in child psychiatry to forensic psychiatric practice—helped him build a national profile as both an educator and thought leader. Faculty roles at Rowan University, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, and Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School allowed him to mentor the next generation of psychiatrists, blending academic rigor with lessons learned in executive practice and advocacy. As his career developed, leadership became a natural trajectory. Rising quickly, he accepted executive responsibilities as Chief of the Division of Forensic Psychiatry at Hackensack Meridian Health, later serving as Chief Medical Officer at both Summit Oaks Hospital and Preferred Behavioral Health Group. In these roles, he has overseen the supervision of providers, the implementation of best practices, and the innovation of systems designed to improve care coordination, treatment outcomes, and organizational competitiveness. His impact has been measurable: strengthening institutional cultures, elevating standards of patient care, and ensuring mental health services remain aligned with the evolving needs of communities. In addition to his administrative leadership, Dr. Sagot has long been an influential advocate for policy reform. A frequent presence in both Trenton and Washington, D.C., he has fought for insurance parity, improved access to mental health care, and legislation that supports both patients and providers. His work on policy committees and advocacy councils has made him a trusted advisor to legislators, medical associations, and advocacy organizations. His ability to translate clinical expertise into policy action has distinguished him as a bridge between the medical profession and the political sphere. Beyond advocacy and leadership, Dr. Sagot has consistently contributed to clinical research and innovation. From his early work constructing investigational drug applications and collaborating with pharmaceutical companies to his more recent publications on esketamine, child advocacy, and psychiatric training, he has maintained an active voice in the scientific conversation. His publications in leading journals and textbook chapters highlight a professional life dedicated not just to practicing psychiatry, but to advancing the field itself. Nationally recognized through fellowships, awards, and committee appointments, Dr. Sagot has been honored by the American Psychiatric Association, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and numerous regional organizations. These recognitions reflect not only his academic and clinical contributions but also his dedication to advocacy and leadership within the profession. His role as President-Elect of the American Society of Adolescent Psychiatry further illustrates his ongoing influence on the direction of psychiatric practice and policy in the United States. A gifted public speaker, Dr. Sagot has presented extensively at conferences, grand rounds, and advocacy forums across the country. His ability to engage diverse audiences—from medical students and healthcare providers to policymakers and community leaders—has made him a powerful communicator for mental health causes. His teaching on advocacy for physicians has become a cornerstone of his professional identity, underscoring his belief that every clinician has a role to play in shaping the systems that affect patient care. Complementing his professional journey is his pursuit of an Executive MBA at the Quantic School of Business in Washington, D.C. This endeavor reflects his forward-looking vision: to combine clinical and policy expertise with advanced business leadership. By integrating executive-level management skills with his medical background, Dr. Sagot is positioning himself to continue shaping healthcare organizations and systems at the highest levels. At the core of Dr. Sagot’s career is a dedication to people—patients, families, students, colleagues, and communities. His commitment to advocacy stems from a deep belief in fairness and access to care. His leadership reflects not only operational excellence but also empathy, humanism, and an unwavering focus on outcomes that matter. With nine years of professional experience across clinical, academic, advocacy, and executive domains, he continues to build a legacy defined by impact, vision, and a mission to elevate the practice of psychiatry for generations to come. Character:Dr. Adam Sagot exemplifies integrity and dedication, consistently placing patient welfare and community needs at the forefront of his work. His leadership is guided by empathy, fairness, and an enduring commitment to equity in mental health care. Colleagues and peers alike recognize his character as a foundation for trust, collaboration, and long-term impact. Knowledge:With triple board certifications, a psychodynamic psychotherapy credential, and an active research portfolio, Dr. Sagot has established himself as a trusted authority in psychiatry. His contributions to academic literature, policy discussions, and clinical innovation highlight the breadth and depth of his expertise. His knowledge bridges clinical practice, healthcare management, and public policy, making him uniquely positioned to drive change. Strategic:Dr. Sagot’s executive leadership is marked by foresight and vision, whether guiding a hospital system, shaping a legislative initiative, or advising a pharmaceutical partner. His ability to align organizational goals with patient-centered outcomes demonstrates his strategic approach to healthcare leadership. By pursuing advanced business training alongside his medical practice, he continues to refine his capacity for innovation and systemic transformation. Communication:Known for his compelling speaking style

Take A Big-Picture View Of Financial Resources A tight and uncertain economy is a good opportunity to take a look at all aspects of your financial resources. Is your bank giving you the best interest rates? Can you find a bank with less fees and better terms? Establishing a line of credit as a bridge for when cash flow is tight is also good to have in your back pocket. – Tara Chalakani, Preferred Behavioral Health Group In unpredictable financial times, stability is rooted in adaptability. At Preferred Behavioral Group, we’ve always believed in combining heart-centered care with strategic vision. Here’s what leaders in the nonprofit sector—including our own Dr. Tara Chalakani—recommend for building a diversified, resilient financial foundation. Dr. Tara Chalakani embodies this philosophy—combining “a for-profit brain with a nonprofit heart” to guide Preferred Behavioral Health Group through every financial challenge and opportunity. To read the original article and Dr. Tara’s feature, visit the Forbes website here.

In a recent segment on NJ Politics, Dr. Tara Chalakani, CEO of Preferred Behavioral Health Group, shed light on an issue that is quickly becoming a crisis for communities across New Jersey: the direct impact of federal and state budget cuts on vital social service programs. While discussions about the political climate can often feel distant or abstract, the reality is that legislative decisions are about to hit home for many of our neighbors. Dr. Tara explained that looming budget reductions will significantly affect school-based prevention and intervention services and therapeutic programs for individuals with state insurance benefits. These programs are more than line items in a budget — they are lifelines for children, families, and individuals who depend on consistent, quality support. The challenge ahead is clear: as government funding shrinks, community organizations like ours will face unprecedented pressure to maintain essential services. Without alternative sources of support, many of these programs risk being scaled back or disappearing entirely. Even in the face of these challenges, there is reason for optimism. Dr. Tara believes that the strength of our community lies in its people; neighbors who care for one another and step forward in times of need. By giving of our time, talent, and resources, we can work together to ensure these vital programs remain available for those who depend on them most. Every act of generosity, no matter the size, makes a difference. Whether it’s a donation, volunteering, sharing information, or advocating for support, your involvement helps keep our community strong and resilient. Now is the time to act. Because when the future of essential services is uncertain, our shared commitment can keep them strong.

Preferred Behavioral Health Group (PBHG), a Lakewood-based provider of mental health and wellness services in New Jersey, said on Friday that it appointed two experienced professionals to its board of trustees—Kristen De Martino and Kenneth Karamichael. De Martino and Karamichael were selected to advance PBHG’s mission of delivering compassionate, innovative, and accessible behavioral health care to individuals and families across the region. “We are thrilled to welcome our newest board members, Kristen De Martino and Ken Karamichael,” ]Dr. Tara Chalakani, CEO of Preferred Behavioral Health Group said. “Their professional expertise and deep passion for mental health will be invaluable as we continue to grow and respond to the needs of our communities.” The new trustees join PBHG at a time as the organization expands its services and partnerships throughout Monmouth and Ocean counties. With a focus on innovation, equity, and advocacy, the board plays a critical role in guiding the organization’s strategic vision and ensuring continued high-quality care for all those served. About the new board members De Martino is an associate vice president/senior internal auditor at OceanFirst Bank with 10 years of experience in banking, certified as both a Fraud Specialist and Quality Assessor, guided by a strong sense of ethics, attention to compliance, and a drive for operational excellence. DeMartino is also proud to be the co-founder and treasurer of the Adam J. Loeffler Scholarship, which helps students with special needs pursue higher education. Karamichael, a longtime leader in workforce development, higher education, community development, and nonprofit engagement, is the associate vice president for professional studies and business development at Georgian Court University – bridging university resources and innovation with industry, non-profit, and community organizations. Karamichael, a lifetime member of the National Eagle Scout Association, brings extensive experience in media relations, marketing, branding, philanthropic support, and the development of programs for veterans, women, BIPOC, LGBTQ, and other underserved populations – especially those seeking new careers, educational pathways, and better futures.