A Bit About Me
Barb has been a leader in Washington States System of Care since 1987, advancing programs and policies across child-serving systems. Initially, she worked in the Community Mental Health System, designing and implementing wraparound services with the King County Interagency Staffing Team. Later, she moved to a statewide role as the Children's Long-Term Inpatient Coordinator. Barb shifted positions to become a supervisor in the Department of Children, Youth and Families, collaborating with colleagues in health, development, assessment, and education to focus on the mental health needs of children. With a keen focus on foster children and youth, Barb partnered with systems to design, create and implement programs that increase accessibility and appropriateness of services across the State. Training parents and professionals has been embedded in her work at every juncture. Barb leads with heart and integrity. She is tireless in her commitment to youth; she champions families and builds lasting connections. Barb is an Associate and a certified trainer in the Coach Approach for Adaptive Leadership through the Kagen Leadership Group. She is actively training throughout the State with a dynamic team of certified trainers that draws from HCA, DDA, DCYF, Parent Organizations, MH Provider Agencies, and Education.