We recently had the chance to connect with Amber Simpson MBA-HCAD, MSW, LCSW-S and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Amber, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
In August, I was named one of the Top 25 Women in Leadership in 2025 by Women We Admire. That was a proud moment. I don’t always stop to acknowledge milestones, and honestly, you don’t see a lot of social workers receiving recognition they deserve. This was a humbling experience. And both an honor and reminder that the years of showing up authentically and working hard in healthcare have mattered.
Read the feature here – https://thewomenweadmire.com/2025/08/the-top-women-leaders-of-2025-3/
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Amber Simpson, MBA-HCAD, MSW, LCSW-S. I’m the national Director of Community Engagement at Tissue Health Pus and I’m the owner of a part time boutique private practice called Eunoia Wellness Counseling. What makes my work unique is the way I bridge two worlds of clinical care and organizational leadership. Whether I’m supporting a patient through one-on-one therapy or building a national-level programs focused on social drivers of health, my goal is always the same: to create access, equity, meaningful change while elevating the role of social work in healthcare.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
In high school, I took a kickboxing and self-defense class that left a lasting impression on me. I remember thinking “Bring it” with whatever life threw at me. Sure, I was a kid who thought I was invincible. But that class taught me far more than how to throw a proper punch. It taught me confidence, mental toughness and the understanding that strength is just as much about mindset as it is about muscle. That feeling remains with me still to this day.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Ha! I almost gave up before I even started. I had my very first “real job” interview of my aspiring career in social work field when I completed my bachelor’s and, starting my masters, social work program. I was applying to be an “after hours crisis clinician” at a local community mental health agency in Southern Illinois. I knew I was out of my depth, but I also knew the value of that position and what it would give to enhance my knowledge and skills. I interviewed with Dr. Verletta Saxon. She was kind and knowledgeable; someone to look up to. I left that interview defeated. I knew I was over my head. To my surprise, a day later, she called me and offered me the position. I was honest and asked her if we were in the same interview. Ha! She laughed and said yes. She said she saw something in me, and I accepted the position. A few months later, I was training new colleagues and on my way. Verletta and the leadership team never let me give up. Their guidance shaped me into a stronger clinician and showed me the power of believing in people before they believe in themselves.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
Myself. I see myself as a lifelong project. I’m always growing, evolving and learning personally and professionally. I don’t believe in ever being “finished.” There is always more to explore, more ways to show up better for myself and for others. That commitment to continual growth is something I’ll carry with me no matter how long it takes.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope I’m remembered for being unapologetically authentic. For showing up fully as myself, both in my personal and professional life. If people say I was someone who worked hard, cared deeply, and didn’t’ shy away from the messy parts of life, then I’ll feel like I left the right kind of story behind.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.eunoiawellnesscounseling.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-simpson-mba-msw-lcsw/
