We are proud to announce that D’Amore Healthcare President and Founder John Emma has been nominated for the prestigious LA Times Studios CEO Awards in the Founder category at the 2025 OC Executive Forum & Leadership Awards. This recognition celebrates some of Orange County’s most exceptional business leaders who demonstrate resilience, growth, and wisdom within their respective fields.
John Emma’s nomination reflects his extraordinary journey of transforming both his own life and the mental health landscape in Southern California. Since founding D’Amore Healthcare in 2016, John has leveraged his 20-year corporate finance background and personal recovery experience to build something unprecedented in mental health care.
Under his leadership, D’Amore has grown from a single residential facility into a comprehensive network of six treatment centers, fundamentally changing how mental health treatment is delivered in Orange County. His business acumen secured critical accreditations and established in-network partnerships with major insurers, including Kaiser Permanente, Aetna, and Anthem—removing financial barriers that often prevent individuals from accessing quality care.
John’s impact extends far beyond business metrics. Through D’Amore’s innovative programs, more than 1,800 patients have reclaimed their mental health under his guidance. He led the revival of the Pat Moore Foundation’s mission, ensuring that D’Amore’s work honors the legacy of compassionate mental health advocacy.
His commitment to professional development has created a workplace culture where team members can achieve remarkable career growth. John personally mentored a frontline staff member through promotions, advanced education, and leadership training, ultimately supporting their elevation to Chief Financial Officer—a testament to his belief in nurturing talent from within.
