David Mandani, MSW, LCSW-S and MATS (in progress) has over twenty years of direct practice and executive leadership in nonprofit settings, including board governance, program development and evaluation, and technical assistance/consulting (capacity building) for nonprofit start-ups and churches across the globe. He formerly served as Vice President of Programs at one of the largest privately funded rescue missions in the nation, where he developed a comprehensive mental health and case management model of care. He is presently part of the team at Journeys Counseling Ministry where, for clients who desire it, he seamlessly integrates Christian faith into the therapeutic process.
David's commitment to education and growth is evident in his professional and academic achievements. He is nearing completion of a second graduate degree in Theology (MATS) from Dallas Baptist University (DBU) and has served as Adjunct Faculty in Social Work, Biblical Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy programs. He has served in church ministry since 2003 and held the role of Pastor of Mental Health at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, CA prior to his seminary studies.
In addition to his clinical work, David serves as a nationwide speaker, consultant and trainer, and is board-certified to supervise Licensed Master Social Workers pursuing clinical licensure. He has frontline experience working as a clinician, including several mental and behavioral health care facilities, emergency department and in-patient psychiatric units.
David's leadership and speaking engagements have taken him across the United states and internationally, offering a unique blend of practical tools and faith-based support to individuals, families and organizations navigating mental health challenges within various cultural contexts. His audiences have included county mental health workers and various healthcare personnel; students, staff and faculty at schools and universities; first responders, law enforcement agencies, other nonprofit organizations; community members, cross-denominational clergy and church leaders/laypersons, missionaries and congregations at large. Training topics have included everything from crisis intervention and best practices/tools to help loved ones, to how to develop a mental health ministry or program, to sharing his own story.
What makes David's work uniquely impactful is his personal journey. Diagnosed with schizophrenia at the age of 18, David brings an authentic perspective to his practice and public speaking. His lived experience as a parent, a peer, a professional, a professor and pastor allows him to connect deeeply with audiences and clients - offering both understanding and hope. Through this lifelong work and calling, David seeks to share with others the comfort and hope that he has personally found in Jesus Christ.
