We recently connected with Shameca K Brown and have shared our conversation below.

Shameca K, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

The journey began after my third child’s birth, driven by a desire to offer them opportunities I hadn’t known. Discovering entrepreneurship as my true calling, I enrolled in college at 24, unaware of the profound impact it would have on my perspective. Graduating, I found a purpose in aiding resilient individuals lacking resources. Two degrees later, entrepreneurship became my undeniable calling, despite lacking familial or peer influence. With a vague yet determined vision, I took the leap and started a company, realizing the magnitude of the risk only a couple of years later. Four years in, through highs and lows, I persist, having also founded a nonprofit with a focus on mental health.

Shameca K, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am Shameca K. Brown, a dynamic and faith-driven public administrator and mental health activist based in Oklahoma. My commitment lies in innovating systems of hope and change to pave the way for community mental health. In my role as a care coordinator, I utilize both personal resilience and professional dedication to advocate for mental health, with a particular focus on empowering underserved communities, especially in Black and Brown spaces.

The inception of Integrated Mental Health stems from my passionate desire to establish a space where providers can access tailored resources to support healing within their communities while amplifying voices of personal and professional identity. Subsequently, I founded Harrison Hope, a nonprofit with the mission of dismantling the stigma surrounding mental health care. Through this organization, I develop programs that infuse hope into mental health care practices.

My leadership style is transformative, firmly rooted in the principles of empowerment and advocacy, which has positioned me as a visionary leader in the behavioral health space. My dedication revolves around fostering intentional change and creating inclusive spaces for mental health support. This commitment sets me apart as a driving force in the relentless pursuit of mental health and well-being for all.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

In growing my clientele, the most effective approach has been maintaining authenticity and openness. Sharing experiences, both mine and theirs, has played a significant role. When I open up a bit and show vulnerability, it establishes a connection, making clients more comfortable in sharing their struggles.

Genuineness is a core principle for me. Authenticity builds trust. When clients perceive my sincere interest in their well-being, it breaks down barriers. They recognize that I’m genuinely invested in their journey, fostering a stronger connection.

Transparency is another crucial element. I believe in providing clear, honest communication about the therapeutic process. Being upfront about what to expect empowers clients, creating a more positive and comfortable therapeutic relationship.

So, my strategy revolves around being authentic, genuine, and transparent. It creates a supportive environment where clients feel at ease as they navigate their mental health journey.

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

In addition to training and knowledge, maintaining authenticity has proven to be a significant factor in my success in this field. It’s essential to stay true to myself, irrespective of external expectations. Whether advocating for mental health or working with clients, being genuine establishes a strong foundation.

Having faith and a sense of purpose serves as a guiding principle. During challenging moments, my faith acts as a constant, providing the resilience needed to navigate uncertainties.

Life is filled with both positive and challenging experiences. Embracing these fluctuations is essential. It is through facing difficulties that genuine reliance is developed – on oneself, faith, and purpose. Success in this field, for me, goes beyond expertise; it involves maintaining authenticity, having faith, believing in purpose, and being willing to navigate the complexities of professional and personal life.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.heal-withskb.com or www.harrisonhope.org
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shameca-karmel-brown-mpa-6aa30b127