Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services

Anthony McLaughlin is the Chief of Innovation and Effectiveness for the Division of Planning Innovation at the City of Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services. McLaughlin provides strategic leadership and guidance for innovative initiatives designed to enhance the lives of Philadelphians. The position is responsible for the development and integration of innovative approaches to address complex problems within, and in service of, the advancement of behavioral health wellness and treatment that is fully integrated into the community fabric of Philadelphia. He often describes his role as the person who provides the tools and resources needed for members on his team to successfully serve Philadelphians.

McLaughlin, a native Philadelphian, completed his undergraduate studies at The Pennsylvania State University earning a degree in biobehavioral health. Anthony later continued his academic pursuits to be conferred a master’s degree in public administration. In 2004, he joined the DBHIDS Division of Community Behavioral Health as the community relations specialist. In this capacity, he was responsible for coordinating systemwide outreach and engagement to communities throughout Philadelphia. Being elevated to manager of the Community-based Services Development unit and transitioning to a new division, Anthony was instrumental in the development and oversight of a portfolio of highly impactful and visible community initiatives such as the Engaging Males of Color Initiative, Mural Arts Porch Light Initiative and Faith and Spiritual Affairs. Anthony advanced to position of special adviser to the deputy commissioner, then administrator where he was responsible for providing oversight of the Division of Planning Innovation’s administrative and operational procedures, development of new initiatives and programs and implementation of strategies to measure effectiveness.

In addition to his work at DBHIDS, McLaughlin holds an adjunct faculty position at Drexel University in the College of Nursing and Health Professions teaching a variety of behavioral health-related courses to the next generation of service professionals. Anthony continues to stay committed and passionate to making meaningful connections and enhancing the lives of Philadelphians.