Favorite Parts of Working in the Business Industry as an Executive Director of Clinical Services
Angela, Executive Director of Clinical Services at Rethink First, finds the most rewarding aspect of her career is the increased attention on educational technology and behavioral health, particularly the equitable access provided through employer-sponsored benefits. The ability to offer services "for free, and you don't have a copay and you don't have a long wait list," while also educating HR and benefits leaders on neurodiversity, makes the work impactful and fulfilling.
Behavioral Health, Employer-Sponsored Benefits, Educational Technology, Neurodiversity, Equity and Access
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Angela Nelson
Executive Director of Clinical Services
Rethink First
UCLA
Master's in Counseling from Cal State Northridge and Doctorate in Education from USC
Psychology
Education, Technology
Operations and Project Management
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. Access to services is improved due to the employer-sponsored nature of the program, removing financial barriers and waitlists.
2. The field is gaining more attention and recognition, creating more opportunities and a rewarding experience in helping companies understand and invest in neurodiversity.
3. The work has an impact on equity by providing access to services for everyone, regardless of location or background.
Transcript
What do you enjoy most about being in your industry?
Depending on who you talk to, we operate in a couple of industries: educational technology and behavioral health. These spaces have received more attention since COVID, which is great as it brings them into the spotlight.
Technically, we're considered an employer-sponsored benefit, operating within the business world. Our clients are companies, both big and small. They purchase a subscription to our program and then offer it to all their employees for free.
I love this because it addresses issues of equity. Everyone in the US, and sometimes globally for international companies, has access to our program. It's a good example of the benefits of the employer-sponsored space.
For instance, if you were to seek autism services in the public marketplace, you might have to go through insurance or pay a copay. However, if you have a child with autism and use our program, you can access it for free, without a copay or a long waitlist.
I also appreciate being in the business industry, particularly working within the neurodiversity paradigm or space. This area is gaining more attention and is becoming more widespread. It's rewarding to help HR and benefits leaders understand the value of investing time and resources here.
So, we're in a couple of different industries, depending on how you look at it.