PsyCare Spotlight: Kristen Kotheimer, MSSA, LISW-S

PsyCare Spotlight: Kristen Kotheimer, MSSA, LISW-S

Licensed Independent Social Worker – Supervisor

School and Family Solutions Coordinator and Supervisor

Struthers PsyCare

Are you accepting new clients?

I am currently not accepting new clients at this time due to the different roles I have within the agency, so my client caseload is limited. With that being said, I often take new clients based on referrals from within the agency or outside agencies upon request. I enjoy working with military families, predominantly spouses and dependents.  I am a military wife, so I understand the unique needs that military life can bring.

 

Tell us about your PsyCare journey and any programs you oversee.

I was hired at PsyCare in September of 2012 as a child and adolescent case manager. After receiving my LSW, I began to supervise case management staff a few years later. I received my Master’s Degree in Social Work in 2018, and have been providing therapy to children, adolescents, and adults since that time. I currently coordinate and supervise PsyCare’s School and Family Solutions Program.  SFS provides mental health services to children within 7 school districts that we currently service.

 

Do you have any special career achievements?

In 2020, I was awarded the Social Worker of the Year Award by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) for Region IV in Ohio.

 

What is your favorite part about being a social worker?

I honestly love connecting with other people! I wake up everyday hoping to be a small part within the bigger solution. I have learned that sometimes all it takes is one person to change someone’s outlook for an entire day. One smile, one kind word, one tiny action can make the world of a difference. We always tend to look at the bigger picture, and then feel let down if it doesn’t look like change was made. I choose to be a small piece that helps to make up the whole puzzle.

 

Do you have a message for those who may be hesitant to seek counseling or other mental health treatments?

Please do not let one person, or one past experience define your journey! Many people often struggle to engage or re-engage with services due to past experiences that they have had when seeking mental health treatment. Your ability to connect and feel comfortable with your therapist can often affect your own belief about treatment. Advocate for yourself and your own needs. You are the catalyst to your own happiness!

Click here to learn more about Kristen, and here for more information on how to contact the Struthers PsyCare clinic for mental health services.

Thank you Kristen for your hard work and dedication to your clients, supervisees and PsyCare. We appreciate you!