Founder & CEO, Empowerment Behavioral Therapeutic Services

David Shrank is a licensed therapist, social worker, serves on multiple boards and is recognized as an expert in trauma across all populations.

David has extensive experience in gang intervention and community engagement, having worked with youth and adults in Philadelphia, PA; Trenton, NJ; Baltimore, MD; and Washington, D.C. His passion lies in improving outcomes for at-risk populations through direct service, systemic reform, and community-based collaboration.

With a deep understanding of trauma-informed care, David has trained professionals in both the government and private sectors on crisis response, community safety, and strategies for strengthening at-risk communities. He is also an advocate for meaningful policy change, working alongside policymakers to develop and implement reforms that improve services and access at both the local and federal levels.

Areas of Specialization:

Trauma Counseling (Children & Adults)

Anxiety & Bullying

Jail/Prison Diversion

Gang Intervention

Substance Use & Addiction

Sexual Assault

Veteran Care

Martial Arts Instruction

Security & Crisis Response

Education & Experience:

David has trained professionals nationally in mental health, gang awareness, and violence prevention. A martial arts instructor since 2003, he founded Greater Trenton Behavioral Healthcare’s self-defense program, training all agency staff in safety and de-escalation techniques.

He has been a featured speaker and keynote presenter at numerous local, national and international conferences and has been published by Greg Wright (National Director of Social Relations, NASW) in SocialWorkersSpeak.org and other professional outlets. David has also appeared as an expert on multiple national and international radio programs discussing trauma, bullying, community health, and crisis response.