Ileana Acosta is the Program Director of the Hotspotting the Overdose Epidemic Program (The Hotspotting Program), which integrates technology and data to identify individuals at high risk of overdose. Through a person-centered, peer-led care management model, the program proactively engages individuals before a crisis occurs.
With over 12 years of experience in behavioral health, Ileana specializes in mental health and substance use disorder treatment. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a Master’s degree in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness from NYU’s Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development.
In 2016, she was recognized as a 20 Under 40 award recipient by the Staten Island Economic Development Corporation for her leadership in expanding Richmond University Medical Center’s (RUMC) Silberstein Center, the hospital’s largest outpatient substance use program. Most recently, she served as program manager at RUMC, overseeing multiple programs funded by the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) and the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH). In this role, she led clinical operations, incident response, performance improvement initiatives, and audit compliance to maintain certification and secure funding.
In 2024, Ileana was featured on RUMC’s Vital Signs television series, where she provided expert insights on drug trends and the opioid epidemic on Staten Island.
With a deep commitment to behavioral health and program innovation, Ileana continues to drive the growth and impact of the Hotspotting Program.