David Covington – Behavioral Health Innovator, Entrepreneur and Storyteller

David Covington is the CEO and President of RI International, an owner of Behavioral Health Link, and leads international initiatives Crisis Now and Zero Suicide. He has twice won the Council of State Governments Innovation Award and was a national finalist in Harvard University’s Innovations in American Government competition.

Early Life and Education

David Covington was a highly accomplished student-athlete and leader on his campus. Additionally, he served in the US Army during the Vietnam War.

As a result, he received numerous awards and honors. Additionally, he is an accomplished writer and charismatic speaker.

David Covington’s career was marked by his work ethic and devotion to service. He volunteered with numerous organizations, such as the American Red Cross and Rutherfordton Golf Club.

He was a devoted family man, always there for his children and grandchildren. In addition, he enjoyed sports and spending time at the beach. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Those who would like to pay their respects are invited to attend funeral services at First United Methodist Church in Rutherfordton on October 4th 2018, which will be followed by visitation.

Professional Career

David Covington is an award-winning behavioral health innovator, entrepreneur and storyteller renowned for his efforts in improving mental health crisis systems through his roles as CEO/President of RI International, partner in Behavioral Health Link and founder of international initiatives #CrisisTalk and Hope Inc. Additionally, he was twice awarded the Council of State Governments Innovations Award and was a finalist in Harvard University’s Innovations in American Government contest.

He is a renowned global speaker with top-rated TEDTalks and conference keynotes. Additionally, he hosts the popular 988 “Crisis Jam” Learning Community in partnership with SAMHSA and NASMHPD.

David provides public company clients with advice on a wide range of securities law, corporate governance and transactional matters. He frequently drafts briefs in federal and appellate courts on behalf of his clients – including the U.S. Supreme Court – which are reviewed for legal clarity by an impartial panel.

Achievements and Honors

David Covington is an award-winning behavioral health innovator, entrepreneur and storyteller. He founded Five Lanes Crisis Partners, Behavioral Health Link and Crisis Now Academy – a consulting and training business.

He holds a degree in clinical psychology and has worked as both a psychotherapist and mental health crisis counselor for over 25 years. Additionally, he is a member of both the American Society of Clinical Psychologists and International Association for Suicide Prevention.

He served as a firefighter for 41 years, spending 31 of those with the San Antonio Fire Department. Additionally, he is Master Instructor for Federal Highway Administration’s SHRP 2 National Traffic Incident Management Responder Training and continues to teach classes on roadside safety. In addition, he is proud member of Covington, Georgia’s American Legion Post 165 where he has belonged since 1969.

Personal Life

David Covington and his wife Natalie made the decision to move from Washington state to Nashville, Tennessee in July 2016, not knowing what life would bring them. Nor did they anticipate how drastically changing their circumstances would have an effect on their health.

David Covington is a behavioral health innovator, entrepreneur and storyteller. He serves as CEO/president of RI International, is involved in Behavioral Health Link, and spearheads international initiatives like Crisis Now and Zero Suicide.

He is a two-time national winner of the Council of State Governments Innovations Award, for his work with Georgia Crisis & Access Line in 2008 and Magellan Health in 2012. Additionally, he is an acclaimed global speaker and founder of healthcare innovation blog “Crisis Now,” read by readers from 90 countries.

Net Worth

Colby Covington, one of the most recognizable fighters in UFC, has amassed a considerable amount of wealth over time. Estimates place his net worth at approximately $4 million dollars.

He’s amassed endorsement deals and notoriety in the sport, which has contributed to his rising net worth. If he were to become a title contender, this wealth could grow even more exponentially.

In addition to his fighting career, he has also been active in the music industry for years. A gifted musician, he’s performed at numerous honky tonks and nightclubs around his hometown of Midland, Texas.