Marcia R. Batiste

Leadership That Elevates People, Systems, and Performance

Driving innovation and operational excellence in behavioral health and human services through trauma-informed, people-first leadership that aligns teams and elevates outcomes.

Currently seeking opportunities in behavioral health, human services, or client-focused leadership where I can apply my experience in operations, trauma-informed care, and staff development to strengthen teams, culture, and outcomes.

About ME

I bring more than 25 years of leadership experience spanning behavioral health, nonprofit, and corporate sectors. My work integrates operational excellence, strategic development, and compassionate leadership to help organizations strengthen teams and deliver measurable results.

Over the past decade, I have focused on behavioral health operations, leading multidisciplinary teams and implementing trauma-informed systems that improve clinical quality and team engagement. My background includes both direct client care and administrative leadership, giving me a comprehensive view of how people, processes, and purpose connect to drive outcomes.

My leadership philosophy centers on people-first practices, accountability, and empathy. I believe that when leaders model authenticity and emotional intelligence, teams perform with greater trust and integrity.

In addition to my operational and behavioral health leadership work, I am an experienced public speaker and curriculum designer. I develop and facilitate training programs focused on trauma-informed leadership, communication, and organizational resilience. My sessions blend evidence-based practice with relatable insight to inspire leaders and teams to think, connect, and perform differently.

MY PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Director of Behavioral Health Operations & Staff Development

– Restore Inc.

I provided operational and clinical leadership for integrated residential treatment and crisis stabilization programs serving individuals and families affected by trauma, substance use, and co-occurring disorders. In addition to overseeing multidisciplinary teams and program performance, I provided direct client care in substance use counseling and crisis intervention. I developed and implemented staff development initiatives, evidence-based practices, and quality assurance systems that improved client stability, team engagement, and recovery outcomes.

Founder & Executive Director

– Nine Seconds Corporation

I established a prevention-first organization dedicated to creating safe, equitable communities and promoting violence-free homes. My work focuses on protecting vulnerable populations and youth through leadership development, emotional wellness, and identity-building programs that strengthen emotional intelligence, reduce risk behaviors, and build resilience. I also design and deliver trauma-informed leadership and resilience training for behavioral health professionals, educators, and community organizations to expand their capacity for prevention and impact.

Operations Manager & Project Consultant

– Moreland Training & Associates

I served as a direct advisor to the CEO, providing strategic consulting and operational leadership to improve organizational efficiency, client experience, and service delivery. I developed and implemented performance frameworks, streamlined onboarding, and designed scalable training systems that strengthened accountability and team performance across remote and in-person teams. I also supported key client relationships and business development initiatives to ensure service alignment, growth, and continuity.

Senior Leadership, Consumer Services Division

– Bankers Trust Company

I provided senior-level leadership for multiple branch locations, overseeing service delivery, customer satisfaction, and team performance. I led staff to exceed goals while maintaining compliance and operational efficiency. My focus on coaching, culture, and systems improvement strengthened employee retention, enhanced customer loyalty, and delivered consistent organizational results.

My Leadership Philosophy

I believe that leadership is most effective when it prioritizes people and purpose equally. A trauma-informed, people-first philosophy guides everything I do. It means creating systems where safety, trust, and accountability allow people to bring their best selves to the work.

I focus on helping organizations create environments where employees feel valued and empowered to perform at their highest level. When leaders invest in the well-being of their teams, they naturally strengthen performance, culture, and outcomes.

I also recognize that operational efficiency is not just an organizational advantage but a critical factor in employee satisfaction and mental well-being. Clear processes, balanced workloads, and effective communication reduce stress, build confidence, and help staff feel supported in their roles. When operations run smoothly, teams experience greater fulfillment and stability, leading to stronger retention, healthier workplace culture, and improved client and customer outcomes.

CORE EXPERTISE

Behavioral Health & Human Services

  • Trauma-Informed Care & Crisis Stabilization

  • Substance Use Counseling & Co-Occurring Disorders

  • Family Systems, Reunification & Prevention-First Programming

  • Staff Training, Clinical Development & Supervision

  • Client Engagement & Outcome Improvement

Leadership & Operations Management

  • Team Leadership, Coaching & Workforce Retention

  • Process Optimization & Program Efficiency

  • Organizational Systems & Quality Improvement

  • Compliance, Risk & Performance Metrics

  • Strategic Planning & Community Partnership Development

SPEAKING & TRAINING

I design and deliver dynamic presentations, workshops, and training experiences that inspire growth, empathy, and excellence in leadership. My programs are grounded in trauma-informed principles and focus on practical skills that enhance communication, accountability, and organizational culture.

  • "Trauma-Informed Leadership and Organizational Culture"

  • "Emotional Intelligence and Decision-Making Under Pressure"

  • "Team Communication and Conflict Resolution"

  • "Leadership Development for Behavioral Health Professionals"

  • "Prevention-First Strategies in Workforce and Program Management"

My presentations are engaging, story-driven, and tailored to meet the needs of diverse audiences, from corporate executives to behavioral health professionals, and individuals. Each session blends real-world experience with actionable strategies that participants can apply immediately.

Interested in booking a keynote or training?

Let’s discuss your goals and design a session that supports your team’s growth.

LET'S CONNECT

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