2017 NAADAC Professional of the Year
Awarded to Leigh Kolodny-Kraft
Founder & Clinical Director, The Kraft Group Inc. – Florham Park, NJ
In 2017, Leigh Kolodny-Kraft was named the NAADAC National Professional of the Year by NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals—the leading organization representing over 100,000 licensed therapists, counselors, and addiction professionals nationwide. This distinguished award is presented annually to one individual who demonstrates outstanding achievement in addiction treatment, mental health care, and clinical leadership.
With more than 30 years of experience in the behavioral health field, Leigh was selected for her national impact in advancing trauma-informed addiction therapy, inclusive clinical practices, and adolescent substance use treatment. She is widely recognized as a leader in ethical, evidence-based care in New Jersey and across the United States.
Recognized for Clinical Excellence, Leadership & Trauma-Informed Addiction Counseling
Leigh Kolodny-Kraft was selected as the 2017 NAADAC Professional of the Year for her:
Expertise in addiction counseling, co-occurring disorder treatment, and recovery support
Deep commitment to trauma-informed care for adolescents, families, and LGBTQ+ communities
Leadership in ethical, inclusive, and culturally responsive therapy
Role as a mentor, educator, and advocate within the national counseling community
As a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC), Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), Leigh continues to set a national standard for integrity-driven, client-centered mental health care.
“Being honored by NAADAC is one of the most meaningful moments of my career. It represents a shared mission—empowering individuals and families to heal through dignity, science, and compassion.”
— Leigh Kolodny-Kraft
About the NAADAC Award
The NAADAC Professional of the Year Award is a national honor recognizing excellence in addiction treatment and behavioral health services. Past recipients are chosen based on their clinical contributions, professional ethics, and impact on the future of mental health and substance use treatment. This award represents the highest level of recognition from one of the most trusted organizations in the field.
What This Means for Clients
Leigh’s national recognition by NAADAC ensures that clients at The Kraft Group Inc. receive the highest caliber of clinical care available. Whether seeking addiction counseling, trauma-informed therapy, or adolescent mental health services in New Jersey, clients benefit from:
Award-winning, ethical clinical standards
Trauma-responsive treatment rooted in evidence-based practice
Inclusive, affirming care for individuals from all walks of life
Leadership-driven innovation in behavioral health
National Recognition for Therapy & Recovery Services in New Jersey
At The Kraft Group Inc., we are proud to offer award-winning therapy and coaching services grounded in the expertise and leadership of Leigh Kolodny-Kraft, one of the nation’s most respected voices in addiction recovery, adolescent mental health, and trauma therapy.