Dana Hackey, Clinical Supervisor

Q: You've had an amazing career path at Sheppard Pratt. Tell us about it.

I have worked at Sheppard Pratt since June of 1996 when I started as a full-time van driver in Frederick. While I was working on my associate's degree at Frederick Community College (FCC), I took a part-time job as a social recreation facilitator, which later became full-time. 

After graduating, I began at Hood College in the Social Work program if January of 2000; I worked at one of our crisis houses doing mobile and residential crisis. I started graduate school at the University of Maryland School of Social Work in 2006 and was an intern with Sheppard Pratt’s Mobile Treatment team in Frederick. After my internship, I transitioned full time to the Assertive Community Treatment team. 

After graduate school, I assumed the role of Director of Healthy Transitions Initiative (HTI) in Frederick and Washington Counties. In 2013, I became the Director of the Maryland PROMISE program. I recently transitioned to my current role as clinical supervisor. I supervise social work, counseling, and substance abuse staff working toward certification and/or licensure in Washington, Frederick, and Howard Counties. 

Q: Why do you choose to work for Sheppard Pratt? 

I have really grown up at Sheppard Pratt. I was taught how to listen to my gut and not be afraid to make mistakes. I learned t to appreciate the million little things versus the big events because change is a million steps, not a huge leap. 

Q: What motivated you to apply for your current position? 

Education was my priority. Moving throughout the organization provided me with growth and learning opportunities. I like to stay challenged.

Q: What inspires you to go to work every day? 

Human connection. Whether it’s a client or staff member, helping people grow and change inspires me greatly.

Q: What is the last gift you gave someone? 

Insight, self-awareness, independence.

Q: What has been your proudest moment at work?

It is really hard to narrow this down to one proud moment after 23 years. It is extremely rewarding when clients and/or staff I supervise gain insight and self-awareness. Those real “aha!” moments.

Q: What advice would you give for a person applying for a similar role? 

To shadow and orient themselves to other programs within the organization. The broader one's understanding of the whole, the more effective and collaboratively the moving parts can operate.