The Team

Scott Burgess joined David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health as the Chief Executive Officer in January 2014. As CEO, he works closely with the DLC Board of Directors and is responsible for the overall management of DLC’s operations and development. He provides administrative, clinical, and strategic direction to the Executive Management Team and provides leadership and support for DLC’s 375+ professional staff.

Burgess comes to DLC after an illustrious 21-year career with Alexian Brothers Center for Mental Health – an arm of Alexian Brothers Health System a large multi-hospital healthcare network – in Arlington Heights, Illinois. He began working for the mental health center as an entry level Vocational Counselor and progressed across time to Executive Director. During his tenure there, he also served as the Director of Program Services and Director of Research.  He is a proven clinician with experience assisting children, adolescents, and adults.  Additionally, he is a highly recognized supervisor, manager, and leader with deep knowledge of community behavioral health and integrated healthcare systems and solutions.

Burgess earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Illinois State University; his Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology from Concordia University; a Certification in Clinical Research Trials from the University of Chicago. In 2016 Burgess attended Harvard Business School’s Executive Education program and in 2020 he received the University of Notre Dame’s Executive Certificate in Leadership.  He is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC).

Passionate about effective policy for those struggling with mental illness, Burgess co-authored legislation that became law in Illinois to develop its first ever five year statewide mental health strategic plan. He was appointed as a member of the Governor’s Task Force to develop the state road map for improved care which was completed, ratified, and mobilized. Most recently, Gulfshore Life magazine has recognized Burgess’s tireless efforts by selecting him as a “Man of the Year 2018” and he was recognized by Naples Illustrated in 2020 – 2023 as one of Collier County’s “Top 100 Most Influential Business Leaders.”

Burgess is currently a member of the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors for the Florida Behavioral Health Association, serves on the Circuit 20 Regional Council for the Central Florida Behavioral Health Network, is on the Leadership Advisory Committee for the Blue Zones Project, and is a Board Member for the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, Burgess is a statutory member of the Collier County Public Safety Coordination Council and served as the Chair of Collier County’s Mental Health Strategic Planning Commission.

In addition to his professional interests, Burgess enjoys spending time with his wife and three children. He spent over 15 years volunteering as a youth coach and has been, and is, active in volunteering in various ministry efforts.