WOMEN TO WATCH

Dr. Cresia Murphy, LPC-S, NCC

Clinical Supervisor
Acentra Health

During a career transition, I joined Acentra Health (formerly EQ Health) as a therapist providing oversight and developing procedures, which led to my promotion as clinical supervisor. I work alongside clinicians managing court-ordered juvenile treatment oversight and supervising placement assessors who determine residential treatment program eligibility. Acentra Health is modernizing the healthcare experience through innovative technology solutions and services.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

What I learned from my first job

People skills matter most. Whether it was de-escalating tense situations or going beyond expectations, it was all because I simply wanted to help.

A skill I never expected to need in this field

I never anticipated how stakeholder management would become a part of my work. Alongside legal understanding, these skills help me manage partnerships and ensure contractual obligations are fulfilled.

One practice I use to maintain my mental health

Laughter is one of my most used go-to strategies for maintaining my mental health. It helps me remain lighthearted and keeps me from overthinking.

Best advice I ever received

Talk less and listen more. I’ve learned some valuable lessons by simply listening. It also helps in my everyday interactions, both socially and professionally.

The first thing I do to course-correct when I hit a wall

I take a moment, remember the overall purpose and my role. My therapeutic motto is “progress, not perfection.” As long as progress is made, I can pivot accordingly.

How I knew this was my passion

I found enjoyment in working with children and adolescents, and seeing them overcome challenges is rewarding. My passion grew stronger when my team showed appreciation for my leadership and support.

Biggest challenges in my career

Burnout, difficult work environments and knowing that a youth has fallen short of succeeding are the first to come to mind.

Nonprofit I wish more people knew about

Pathfinder Inc. I worked there for several years and they have a lot of programs that support individuals with developmental disabilities.

What keeps me coming back to my job every day

The youth keep me motivated because every day is different, with both progress and setbacks. Seeing a young person successfully complete treatment makes the work more meaningful.

Best career moment so far

I have experienced a lot of great moments, but the most recent one was being selected to be a part of the Acentra’s Change Champions Committee.

The one thing I wish people knew about my field

Despite its challenges, counseling is really rewarding. While demanding, witnessing youth mature and succeed makes even the hardest moments worthwhile.

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Hometown

North Little Rock

I can’t start my day until

I eat breakfast

Hobbies

Crafting

Binge watch

“Yellowstone”

Last good read

“Permission to Feel” by Marc Brackett

Favorite meal in town

Wedge salad and steak

Best recent local discovery

Hodge Podge in North Little Rock

Latest splurge

HexClad cookware

Most-used app

Spotify

Dream vacation

Santorini, Greece

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