Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kimberly. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Kimberly, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?
I was recovering from Breast Cancer Treatment, and I heard Yahweh say that I need to open my own mental health agency. This was a shock because I went to school to help people maintain and regain their mental health, not to be a businessperson. Plus, in order to open up a state accredited establishment, there is a lot of behind-the-scenes paperwork and as most LPC’s knows, we hate paperwork. In order to do this, I had to quit all other work and focus on that, seeing client’s pro-bono, keeping charts and records, being admin and laying the foundations of GCC for over 6 months with no pay, while my husband worked to keep food on our table. While we were doing this, we were also recovering from cancer treatment (it takes a toll on loved ones of cancer survivors too), moving residence and trying to establish first time school for our 4-year-old. Even though it was hard and trying, we were able to accomplish it and grow into the focus that Yahweh wanted, which was mental health for all cultures and diversities. Little is much when Yahweh is in it.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I am just a counselor that saw that Tulsa area could do better in regard to mental health. Many agencies focus on the theories and treatments of mental health but do not acknowledge that people also have a culture and sometimes a language that is different. Differences should not be seen as wrong, but to be embraced and celebrated. At GCC, we focus on being Beautifully Diverse, where we take people for where they are at, and help them in a more in-depth way, focusing on culture and beliefs and even language. Culture is a huge part of who someone is, and you cannot “treat” mental illness without also appreciating the difference of culture. We offer family sessions, individual sessions, group sessions, school/office/home setting. We also speak about mental health and culture. We take all different kinds of insurance and even Medicaid. We help those with stress, mental illness, trauma, Autism spectrum, behavioral issues and much more.
Any advice for managing a team?
Always treat your team as you would want to be treated. Keep it honest, transparent, Humble and a willingness to Learn from others. A team should be just that, a team. Everyone working together, being heard, expressing concerns/ideas with all aiming for an ultimate goal of the company. The CEO has the final say, but not ALL the say.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
Word of mouth is the best. Treat every customer/client as though they are unique. Also go above and beyond your official role and show that you care. Be genuine and honest. And do not be afraid to say “I don’t know, but I will get back to you.” But make sure you get back to them with answers.
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Image Credits
Amanda Grace