In 1999, he co-founded the Institute for Research, Education, and Training in the Addictions (IRETA) and became the Principal Investigator for the SAMHSA/CSAT-funded Northeast ATTC. Today he seeks to assist communities seeking to develop and implement Recovery Oriented Systems of Care. Since 2015 he has served as a clinical advisor to U.S. Attorney’s Plan to address the overdose epidemic in western Pennsylvania and nationally. Dr. Flaherty dedicates his work to policy, clinical practice, consultation, research, and the sustainment of a recovery focus in all. In January he received the Pittsburgh Psychological Association 2016 Legacy Award for lifetime contributions to the W. Pa. community.