Since 2002, David Pavia has dedicated his career to substance use and mental health treatment, guiding individuals toward healing, self-awareness, and lasting transformation. With a deep commitment to fostering meaningful change, he has worked across diverse clinical settings, shaping the landscape of behavioral health care.

After earning his Master’s degree from New York University, David began his career supporting adolescents affected by 9/11 at The World Trade Center Healing Services in Lower Manhattan. This formative experience solidified his passion for trauma-informed care and set the foundation for his work in guiding individuals through life’s most challenging transitions. He later became a key figure in some of Los Angeles’ most respected treatment centers, playing an instrumental role in developing clinical programming for young adults at Promises before bringing his expertise to START UP WELLNESS.

As Clinical Director, David oversees the Clinical Services Department with a steadfast commitment to innovation, individualized care, and evidence-based best practices. His leadership is both strategic and hands-on—ensuring that programming is not only clinically sophisticated but also deeply human-centered. By working directly with clients while mentoring and training staff, David fosters a culture of excellence, collaboration, and compassionate care, ensuring that every individual who walks through the doors of START UP WELLNESS receives the highest level of support and guidance.

David’s passion for creative therapies is seamlessly woven into the treatment experience. He believes that true healing extends beyond traditional talk therapy, integrating music, art, and experiential modalities to help clients process emotions, explore identity, and engage in self-expression. His approach encourages deep personal exploration, helping clients not only achieve sobriety but build meaningful, empowered lives beyond treatment.

Through mentorship, clinical expertise, and a relentless dedication to transformative care, David continues to shape holistic, immersive, and dynamic treatment experiences. His work ensures that START UP WELLNESS remains at the forefront of behavioral health innovation—offering clients not just sobriety, but the tools, insight, and resilience to thrive long after treatment.

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