AWARE’s Commitment to Clinical Excellence

At AWARE, we place clinical outcomes at the heart of everything we do. Every team is equipped with a Clinical Lead—a licensed clinician who offers expert guidance and support while fostering a collaborative environment. These Clinical Leads are not only skilled professionals but also compassionate leaders who ensure that our interventions are trauma-informed, strength-based, and data-driven. Their unique approach encourages learning and collaboration across teams, helping each member contribute their diverse perspectives while maintaining a shared goal: improving the lives of those we serve. 

When critical incidents arise, our Clinical Leads are essential. They help guide our response, reduce team stress, and provide therapy for individuals, families, and groups. Their deep understanding of the needs of the persons served ensures consistent, compassionate care, and they stay current with the latest in ethics, best practices, and treatment models. Today, we’re shining a spotlight on two of AWARE’s outstanding Clinical Leads—Kristie Matule, LCSW, and Mindy Hayes, LCPC—who bring both expertise and heart to their roles. 

Kristie Matule, LCSW: Leading with Calm and Compassion 

Kristie Matule, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), is known throughout AWARE for her calming presence and steady leadership. She has a natural ability to make others feel supported, guiding her team with clarity and empathy even in the most challenging situations. As a Clinical Lead, Kristie ensures that every member of her team has the support they need to deliver high-quality, compassionate care. 

Her commitment to trauma-informed care is a cornerstone of her work. Whether she’s providing crisis intervention, therapy, or simply a reassuring word, Kristie’s strength lies in her ability to stay grounded and focused, no matter the situation. Her team members often speak of how she creates a safe, trusting environment where everyone feels valued. 

Kristie’s dedication to her team goes beyond clinical expertise. She understands the importance of mental well-being in the workplace and ensures that her colleagues have opportunities to debrief and consult with one another after tough cases. It’s this emphasis on emotional support that allows her team to thrive even in high-pressure moments. 

Away from the demands of her role, Kristie recharges by immersing herself in nature. She enjoys hiking and camping in Montana’s breathtaking landscapes with her family, using these outdoor adventures to find balance and renewal. This connection to nature is something Kristie brings back to her work, reminding her team and herself to stay grounded amid the challenges they face. 

Mindy Hayes, LCPC: Expertise and Empathy in Every Step 

Mindy Hayes, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), brings a unique blend of expertise and heartfelt compassion to her role as Clinical Lead. Mindy is admired not only for her deep knowledge of trauma-informed practices but also for her ability to connect with people on a personal level. She builds strong, meaningful relationships with the individuals and families she serves, which allows her to craft personalized interventions that address their unique needs. 

Mindy’s calm demeanor is a guiding force when her team faces critical incidents. She has a way of navigating these challenges with precision, always ensuring that every response is both effective and compassionate. Her holistic approach helps her see the bigger picture, enabling her to lead her team toward sustainable solutions that benefit both the persons served and the staff members involved. 

One of Mindy’s strengths is her passion for mentoring. She thrives on supporting her colleagues, providing clinical supervision, and encouraging professional development. Her leadership style is collaborative—she’s always open to feedback and values the contributions of each team member, which strengthens the overall effectiveness of the team. 

When she’s not at work, Mindy expresses her creativity through painting. Art is her way of unwinding, and it gives her a fresh perspective that she brings back to her clinical practice. Whether she’s experimenting with a new style or crafting something personal, Mindy’s creative outlets help her stay balanced and energized, which translates into the thoughtful care she provides at AWARE. 

Celebrating Our Clinicians 

While Kristie and Mindy’s leadership stands out, it’s important to remember that they are part of a larger team of dedicated clinicians at AWARE. Every clinician plays a crucial role in providing the high-quality care that defines our organization. It’s this collective effort—guided by the expertise and support of leaders like Kristie and Mindy—that ensures the success of our clinical services. 

AWARE is incredibly proud of the entire clinical team. They embody our mission every day, helping to drive positive change in the lives of the people we serve. We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our clinicians for their tireless work and unwavering dedication to creating stronger, more resilient communities.