Karen Sumpter’s Journey: A Legacy of Compassion and Dedication

In the world of social work, few names resonate with the depth and breadth of experience as Karen Sumpter. A licensed clinical social worker in Michigan, Karen’s career spans over four decades, marked by profound contributions to mental health and social services. Her journey is a testament to unwavering dedication, resilience, and an enduring commitment to improving lives.

Karen’s professional odyssey began at Wayne State University, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work. From the outset, her career was defined by a blend of direct service and leadership roles. Her early work in child welfare as a foster care worker laid a strong foundation for her subsequent transition into supervisory and directorial positions. Karen’s role as a foster care supervisor and later as the director of a family growth and development center showcased her dedication to family reunification and support for parents grappling with the challenges of child removal due to abuse or neglect.

As the mental health landscape in Michigan evolved, Karen’s career adapted seamlessly. The closure of psychiatric hospitals in the early 1980s brought a wave of individuals into community settings, and Karen stepped up to manage day programs for older adults who had been displaced. Her leadership extended to various programs, including outpatient services, guardianship programs, and initiatives addressing substance use among older adults and HIV/AIDS awareness. Her ability to respond to the shifting needs of her community reflected her innovative approach and deep understanding of mental health issues.

Karen’s expertise was not confined to direct practice; she expanded her horizons into managed care and quality assurance. Her role as a clinical director and later as the director of utilization management provided her with a comprehensive view of the intersection between clinical care and financial management. Her work in hospital emergency rooms further broadened her experience, allowing her to interact closely with medical professionals and address acute psychiatric needs.

In addition to her professional endeavors, Karen’s commitment to education and community service remained strong. She taught at Wayne State University and Phoenix University, sharing her wealth of knowledge with the next generation of social workers. Despite semi-retiring in 2021 due to a gallbladder cancer diagnosis, Karen’s spirit remained undaunted. She embraced a new chapter of her life, engaging in remote private practice and exploring volunteer opportunities. Her remarkable recovery from a dire prognosis stands as a testament to her strength and resilience.

Karen’s journey is deeply intertwined with her personal experiences and values. Raised in challenging circumstances, she found inspiration in a social worker who played a pivotal role in her family’s life. This early influence solidified her decision to pursue a career in social work, driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact. Her involvement with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated further underscores her commitment to community service and education.

One of Karen’s most recent affiliations is with the SWEET Institute. She discovered the institute through an email and, captivated by its mission and offerings, decided to engage with its programs. Karen’s involvement with SWEET Institute reflects her ongoing commitment to personal and professional growth. She values the institute’s role in keeping her skills current and appreciates the refreshment and enrichment it brings to her practice.

Karen’s story is a powerful reminder of the profound impact one individual can have in the field of social work. Her career is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence, a deep sense of empathy, and an enduring commitment to serving those in need. As she continues to contribute to the field through her work and affiliations, Karen Sumpter remains a beacon of inspiration and a living testament to the transformative power of social work.

In honoring Karen, we celebrate not just her remarkable career but also the indelible mark she has left on countless lives. Her story is a source of inspiration for all who strive to make a difference in the world of mental health and social services.

Karen M. Sumpter, MSW, LMSW, ACSW, BCD
Karen M. Sumpter is a licensed clinical social worker with a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree and a Graduate Certificate in Social Work with Couples and Families from Wayne State University. With over 40 years of experience in physical and behavioral health and social work education, she specializes in the treatment of anxiety and depression, anger management, crisis intervention, substance use disorders, and chronic pain. She is also a certified national trainer for Family Psychoeducation.

Karen has over 30 years of experience in senior and executive management, with proficiency in program design and evaluation, utilization management, total quality management, and system change strategies. She has served on the faculties of Phoenix University and Wayne State University, School of Social Work.

Karen holds several certifications, including:
– Master Social Worker (LMSW): State of Michigan, Clinical and Macro License
– Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (BCD), American Board of Examiners in Clinical Social Work
– Certified Social Worker (ACSW), Academy of Certified Social Workers
– Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner (CPRP), Certification Commission for US Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association

Karen is a strong advocate for social change, particularly for older citizens and individuals with mental and cognitive disabilities. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, the National Mental Health Association, and The Arc Detroit, where she was nominated for the Governor’s Honor Roll. She has held leadership positions on several boards, including Services to Enhance Potential (Vice President), The Arc Detroit (Vice President, President), Presbyterian Villages of Michigan-Village of Peace Manor (Vice President), Presbyterian Villages of Michigan-Corporate Board of Directors (Strategic Planning Committee), and the National League of Colored Women-Metro Detroit Chapter (Vice President, President).

On a personal note, Karen enjoys crafting, reading, and antiquing. She is the proud mother of two adult daughters: Felicia, a family nurse practitioner, and Andrea, an attorney; her bonus daughter Kandyce, a CPA; and her bonus son Charles, an NCO in the US Navy. She is also a doting grandmother to Cora, Nyah, Amir, Miles, and Adonis.