Play’s the Thing

You can call it trauma therapy. Child mental health. Or even the more straightforward family or child therapy. Kimberly Bartlett prefers a more lighthearted term to tackle a serious subject: integrative play therapy. Bartlett launched Evergreen Play Therapy in Seattle two years ago to help children and families heal through play. She combines various therapeutic models and research to tailor treatment plans that address emotional, behavioral, and social hurdles. Bartlett has been providing direct treatment services for more than 20 years, including roles as a clinical program manager in community mental health settings, and as an educator at the University of California San Diego and the University of Phoenix. “I’m endlessly moved by the healing families achieve,” she says, “and for allowing me to be a guide to their success.”

Leadership

From a mental health perspective, some of the most important characteristics of a good leader include empathy, self-awareness, and the ability to manage stress effectively. Leaders who demonstrate empathy are able to understand and connect with the emotions of those around them, creating a supportive and inclusive work environment. Self-awareness is also crucial, as it allows leaders to recognize their own emotions and how they may impact their team. Additionally, being able to manage stress effectively is important for maintaining mental well-being. By modeling healthy coping mechanisms and promoting a positive work-life balance, a good leader can help create a mentally healthy workplace for everyone.

Overrated Traits

Leadership traits to scrutinize are confidence and engagement. Confidence in leadership is praised for inspiring trust and bold decisions, but growth involves stepping out of comfort zones where confidence may waver, leading to innovation. Embracing uncertainty and vulnerability can lead to valuable learning and growth despite moments of doubt. Leaders forge new paths, and not knowing causes uncertainty and self-doubt, which I think can be valuable.

Prominence

From a mental health perspective, women can focus on cultivating resilience and self-care practices that bolster mental stamina and emotional intelligence, key components for leadership. By prioritizing mental health, they can enhance their decision-making abilities, creativity, and empathy, traits highly valued in leadership positions. Additionally, advocating for workplace policies that support mental health can not only benefit individual career progression but also foster a more inclusive and supportive organizational culture, paving the way for women to step into prominent roles.

Lessons Learned

One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned from a woman who has greatly inspired and mentored me is the importance of finding and using my voice. She taught me that each of us has a distinct set of experiences and viewpoints that can enrich discussions and decision-making processes. Her mentorship encouraged me to be confident in expressing my ideas, even when they diverge from the mainstream or popular opinions. My mentor’s example showed me that being genuine in your style can lead to deeper relationships and more meaningful achievements.

Advice

Take risks, care for oneself, and always be true to oneself. Taking risks is crucial for leadership, requiring stepping out of comfort zones, challenging norms, and dreaming big. Embracing risk leads to innovative solutions, inspires change, and creates new paths for others. Self-care is crucial for leaders to maintain resilience, handle challenges, and inspire others. Prioritizing physical, mental, and emotional well-being is essential for sustainable leadership.

Networking

Networking has surged in importance as a strategic tool for growth and collaboration among businesses in mental health and wellness. By forging connections with both local and distant enterprises, companies can create a supportive ecosystem that enhances their reach and impact. Personally, I’ve been expanding my contacts with a focus on children’s issues and family wellness through seeking out and participating in fundraisers and events that resonate with my company’s core mission and values.

Do Differently

Reflecting on my career, one aspect I would emphasize more is networking. There is an immense wealth of knowledge to be gleaned from others, something I’ve increasingly recognized over time.

Unwind

On a Saturday afternoon, you’ll likely find me in one of two places, each offering its own distinct slice of weekend joy. The first stop might be a cozy café nestled in the heart of the city, seated across from a friend, where I’m immersed in deep, meaningful conversations. Alternatively, I’m enjoying outdoor hikes with family, strengthening bonds, and connecting to nature.

Autobiography Title

Slow, Fast, and Everything in Between: A Journey of Self-Discovery.