For over 25 years, Sherief Moustafa has been a leading voice for quality substance abuse and mental health care— both in the South Florida community and on the national stage.
Sherief’s passion for helping more Americans access effective treatment and achieve long-term recovery inspired him to found and lead the national behavioral health provider FHE Health in 2002.
Since then, thousands of men and women from around the country have found “hope for healing” at FHE’s substance addiction and mental health treatment facility. Meanwhile, Sherief’s long and continuing record of successes and contributions as founder of FHE Health continue to bring him acclaim in the community.
How did you get started in this business? What inspired you to start this business?
I have always felt the innate need to help others, but I suppose I really began this journey when I worked at Harvard Teaching Hospital as a Supervisor. The things I saw on a daily really stood with me and helped me to start my passion project, FHE in 2002.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
I mean, I think with every business there are doubtful moments. For FHE, I think it was when we thought we wouldn’t get the funding we needed to help make mental healthcare affordable for our clients.
What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?
Being present on Social Media because that’s where most people, including our patients and their families, spend some of their time. Additionally by adding useful content on our website, we are able to help patients and their families who are looking for information about mental health and addiction find programs that can help.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
People say that my philanthropic views and vision to better our society is also what makes me a successful entrepreneur. I also follow through with my visions and they become my missions and goals.Through my role as a leader and innovator, I strive to inspire others, but without God by my side, I do not believe any of this could have been possible.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
My most satisfying moment in business was realizing that FHE had gone from a regional level to a national level in regard to behavioral healthcare.
What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
I’m hoping that FHE will continue to grow and provide care to many more people who need it. I am excited about our new scholarship program at FHE Health. This program is aimed to help current professionals continue their education so that they can continue to help others. The purpose of the scholarship is to encourage more of America’s best and brightest to pursue a vocation in the field of addiction and mental health.
What business books have inspired you?
This book came out in 2015. FHE was already successful, but it’s definitely an inspirational read, “Doing Good Better: How Effective Altruism Can Help You Make a Difference” by Willliam MacAskill.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
The advice that I would give to my younger self would be to always see my dreams through. With determination and dedication all things are possible. Also when you do good, good comes back to you.
What are your thoughts on mentorships? Do you or FHE Health offer them?
Mentorships and apprenticeships are extremely important. FHE Health is known for leadership that inspires excellence in work. Our dedicated team is made up of mentors in a variety of careers, so we welcome new employees to join our team and make a real difference in patients’ lives.