Empowering Future Leaders in Social Work: Haley Matthews’ Inspiring Journey

Do you ever find yourself yearning to mentor someone, but feeling unsure of where to start? Are you curious about the behind-the-scenes of running a business and the value of hands-on internships? Wondering how to build a successful career while keeping faith at the center?

Today, we dive into these questions with Haley Matthews, a social work graduate student and our current intern. As a first-generation college student, Haley’s decision to pursue a career in mental health was a brave one. She brings a fresh perspective and a deep desire to learn the ropes, both clinically and from a business standpoint.

Haley’s Journey to Social Work

Haley always had a knack for psychology and social sciences, but her path wasn’t always clear. She shares: “In high school, I was probably not the best student. But the only subjects that I actually did not have to study for and that I enjoyed learning was psychology and the social sciences... I was like, ‘I love that,’ I really think that’s the job I was looking for. But I didn’t know much about it.”

While she excels at the people-focused aspects of the work, the path to becoming a fully-licensed social worker also involves licensing processes and business considerations. Haley is navigating all this with impressive grace.

Faith, Motivation, and the Decision-Making Process

Faith played a key role in Haley’s journey: “There were a lot of times when I wanted to give up, and… I would just cry and pray about it… I’m glad I kept going because I love where I’m at now. And I’m excited for everything that’s to come.”

Her words show us the power of faith as a source of strength when the path feels uncertain. For many, the pursuit of higher education and specialized careers can be fraught with self-doubt and difficult choices. Haley’s willingness to lean on her faith during these moments serves as a reminder of its importance, not just in her personal journey, but as a potential inspiration for anyone who faces challenges while striving towards a goal. Her story also highlights how perseverance in the face of those challenges unlocks new opportunities and can lead to a deep sense of fulfillment.

The Benefits of Being an Intern in Private Practice

One of the unique things about Haley’s journey is how she’s experiencing both the clinical and business sides of mental health.

“I remember my first day here, we were talking about the licensure and how to become licensed. And I was like, ‘Wait, oh, wait, there’s more I have to do more after my master’s…’ But I realized that if you do it in a place where you’re working, then it doesn’t feel like you’d be like logging your hours. It just feels like you’re doing what you want to do.”

This highlights the importance of internships – especially those that expose students to the whole picture of what their chosen profession entails.

Faith-Based Practice: What Makes it Different?

We also discussed how working in a faith-based practice compares to her previous non-faith-based work environment.

Haley shares: “I feel like everyone is just more welcoming… there’s just a greater… you can feel the Holy Spirit in the atmosphere here. And they’re… I don’t know, it’s just a different presence, I think… and sense of comfort and clients leaving happy and feeling fulfilled.”

This speaks to the unique role a faith-based practice can play in people’s healing process.

Why CEOs Should Embrace Mentoring

As a CEO, I’m a huge advocate for pouring into the next generation. It’s about paying it forward, but there’s also a tremendous benefit for business owners. I encourage all business owners to take on interns or apprentices.

As Haley reminds us, your interns will play a vital role in the future: “We did the math, we’re fitting years apart. Right? Your generation will be taking care of me when I’m in my 60s 70s. So why not pour into it?”

Haley’s Leadership Wisdom

Speaking of the future, I asked Haley to share insights from her leadership research on John Maxwell, a renowned expert on the topic. She resonated with this powerful quote:

“A great leader’s courage to fulfill his vision comes from passion, not position.”

This reminds us that passion is a crucial driving force for success, and it’s never too early to start building a career on what you love.

Abiding in Christ as a CEO

I closed out our conversation by asking Haley the same question that I ask all my guests: What advice do you have for business owners who want to abide in Christ?

Her answer was simple and profound: “Just to keep going… I feel like it can feel like you’re getting pushed sometimes, but we have a greater knowledge of who to work with and working through Christ, I think gives us a really good foundation forever.”

Pay it Forward: Shape the Future Through Mentorship

Haley’s story reminds us of the transformative power of mentorship. Will you answer the call?

Taking on an intern or apprentice isn’t just about offering a helping hand – it’s a profound investment in the future. Your guidance can ignite someone’s passion, give them invaluable experience, and help shape the professionals they become.

Let’s all commit to cultivating a culture of mentorship. Reach out to local schools and universities to explore their internship programs or seek out opportunities to share your industry knowledge with students. Haley’s journey reminds us that sometimes, all we need is someone who believes in our potential. Let’s be that someone for the next generation.

About Haley Matthews

I am a passionate graduate-level social work intern with a commitment to serving others in all seasons of their life. With a love for Jesus, I strive to incorporate His teachings of compassion and empathy in my daily life.

I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in human services from the University of North Georgia and am currently in graduate school for social work.

Guided by my faith and my passion for helping others, I am committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those I work with.

2 Corinthians 5:7 “For we walk by faith, not by sight”.