Ricardo “Ricky” Santiago is a seasoned behavioral health executive with more than 20 years of experience leading addiction treatment programs across the full continuum of care. As Clinical Director at Recovery First, he provides strategic and clinical leadership across residential and outpatient services, with a focus on quality, innovation, and operational excellence.

Ricky is nationally recognized for integrating experiential and adventure-based approaches into substance use treatment and has presented his work at leading industry conferences throughout the United States. He has successfully launched and stabilized programs, guided organizations through periods of growth and transition, and led multidisciplinary teams in high-acuity treatment environments.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Palm Beach Atlantic University, as well as an MBA from Louisiana State University–Shreveport. Ricky serves as a Qualified Supervisor for registered MHC and MFT interns in the State of Florida and is an Adjunct Professor at Palm Beach Atlantic University. In 2025, he published his first book, How Long to Sing This Song? An Anthem of Hope for the Long Wait.