Good transitions start
with good people.

Dr. Patrick Houlihan founded The Houlihan Group in 2000 with a straightforward belief: a successful dental practice transition should work for both the seller and the buyer.

After undergraduate studies at the University of Michigan, he graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry in 1983. He opened a practice in Plymouth, Michigan, in 1987 and practiced full-time until transitioning it to his associate in 2019.

That personal experience informs his approach to consulting. He understands the years invested in building patient trust, supporting a team, and creating a dental home. His work focuses on transferring that goodwill to the right successor.

Alongside his consulting work, he has lectured at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, presented educational programs for the Michigan Dental Association and local dental societies, and published articles on practice transitions. His background also includes leadership in Michigan forensic dentistry and disaster response.

Angel brings a deep understanding of dentistry and a long history of building trusted relationships with dental professionals.

A northern Michigan native, she graduated from Northwood University in 1997 with majors in Business Management and Accounting. After beginning her career in sales and pharmaceuticals, she entered the dental industry in 2008.

Her experience spans endodontic supplies, dental technology, and practice acquisitions. Working with general dentists, specialists, and a dental support organization gave her a broad view of the opportunities and pressures facing practice owners.

Angel first met Dr. Houlihan while working on opposite sides of a practice transition. Recognizing their shared commitment to integrity and finding the right fit, she joined The Houlihan Group to help dentists navigate the beginning or next chapter of their ownership journey.

Shawn DeHart brings more than 25 years of experience in the dental industry to The Houlihan Group. A graduate of Ferris State University with a degree in Marketing/Professional Golf Management, Shawn began his career in the golf business before making the transition to dental in 1999.

Growing up in the rural community of Gladwin, Michigan, Shawn is the son of a local business owner. He learned early the importance of hard work, relationships, and serving your community. After moving to Metro Detroit in 1995, he built his career and family in the area, where he lives with his wife and two children. Despite living in Metro Detroit, Shawn maintains strong ties to Northern Michigan and continues to value the community, relationships, and small-town roots that shaped him.

Throughout his dental career, Shawn has held numerous leadership and sales roles, including leading sales teams, selling capital equipment, and helping bring innovative technologies to dental professionals. His extensive experience working with dentists and understanding the business of dentistry gives him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities involved in a dental practice transition.

At The Houlihan Group, Shawn is committed to using that experience to help dentists navigate important career decisions and find the right path for their future.