Her Story
About Lolita
Lolita Bethel serves as supervising clinical psychologist for the psychological testing and evaluations department at the Mental Health Center in Minneapolis, MN. She has worked in the mental health field since 1994 and holds an undergraduate degree in psychology along with a master's degree and PhD in counseling and Student Personnel Psychology. Bethel is licensed as both a psychologist and an independent clinical social worker. Her career has included private practice, public school settings, graduate-level teaching, and community mental health, with more than 10 years in leadership roles. Prior to her current position, she was Assistant Clinical Director at the African American Child Wellness Institute. She practices trauma-informed care and has presented nationally on narrative therapy practices with African American women, children, and families. Bethel has received the Minnesota Psychological Association Provider of color that's made impact award and the Belcourt award from the Unity Community organization. She attributes her success to a supportive community and the wisdom of those who came before her, and she advises taking risks, challenging oneself, and viewing leadership as service.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Lolita
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to having a supportive community and creating community where there might seemingly not have been any. I don't think I've done this alone. I know I haven't. And just leaning into the wisdom of those that have gone before me, really soaking it in.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice would be taking risk. Not doing what's easy for very long. Challenging yourself. Always be willing to learn, and to serve. I think the best leaders know that leadership is service.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be willing to take up space and be visible. To tell yourself that you have something to offer. And then offer it. Give it away.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Oftentimes if you're doing strictly individual therapy it can create a sense of isolation and silo. It's really important to reach out and create community amongst the other professionals. The biggest opportunities have come when you're being intentional. Being real intentional about your choices and the whys, align your values and your strengths with the opportunities that may come. The biggest opportunities have been those that you take a risk for and you're intentional about and you're prepared for. Preparation is very important as well.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Authenticity. I think people really can grow and heal when the person that they are sitting in front of is authentic and willing to be vulnerable. And not have a top-down approach. We should be collaborative, because people have more strength and resources than we sometimes give them credit for, but they just need space and opportunity and support to really actualize their gifts and talents and to affect change in their own lives.
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