Her Story
About Tara
Tara Roach, SHRM-CP, is an executive leader, organizational strategist, and behavioral health professional whose career reflects the power of resilience, reinvention, and purpose-driven leadership. Her professional journey began in the insurance industry, where she spent nearly a decade advancing to the role of Associate Director in Indiana before transitioning into IT consulting and business development. There, she partnered with Fortune 500 organizations, including Kroger and Toyota, helping businesses solve complex operational and technology challenges. She earned her bachelor's degree in Broadcasting in 2012 and recently completed a Master of Science in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, equipping her with the expertise to build high-performing, people-centered workplace cultures. In March 2021, Tara's life took a transformative turn when she entered treatment for alcohol & drug addiction in Massachusetts. What began as a personal journey of recovery became a professional calling to serve others facing similar challenges. Since then, she has held leadership roles across the behavioral health field as a client advocate, community liaison, clinical care coordinator, and program director, helping individuals and families navigate the path to recovery while leading teams committed to compassionate, evidence-based care. She now serves as Executive Director, helping launch a new behavioral health center dedicated to expanding access to quality addiction treatment and recovery services. Drawing on her diverse background across business, technology, healthcare, and behavioral health, Tara is passionate about helping organizations create healthier, more sustainable workplaces where employees can thrive. Through executive leadership and organizational consulting, she focuses on strengthening workplace culture, improving leadership effectiveness, reducing staff burnout, and developing systems that support both organizational performance and employee well-being. Her work is grounded in the belief that when organizations invest in their people, they create stronger teams, better outcomes, and lasting impact.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Tara
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my failures just as much as my achievements. Every setback has taught me resilience, strengthened my character, and given me the perspective to lead with empathy. My parents instilled in me the value of perseverance and the importance of never giving up, even when the path is difficult. Sports also played a significant role in shaping who I am, teaching me discipline, accountability, teamwork, and how to keep pushing forward when things don't go as planned. Above all, I credit God for carrying me through life's greatest challenges and guiding me toward a purpose greater than myself. Those experiences have shaped not only who I am, but the leader I strive to be every day.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
F*** the haters. The best career advice I've ever received was, "Don't let other people's opinions define your path."
I've also never forgotten the saying, "Show me your five closest friends, and I'll show you your future." The people you surround yourself with shape your mindset, your standards, and your character. I've learned to be intentional about building relationships with people who encourage growth, celebrate others' successes, and challenge me to become better. There will always be critics and people with opinions, but you can't build your life around their expectations. Stay focused on your purpose, keep moving forward, and let your work speak for itself.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Believe in yourself before you expect anyone else to. Have the confidence to be yourself, even when it's uncomfortable, and never compromise your values to fit someone else's expectations. Set healthy boundaries, learn that saying "no" is a strength—not a weakness—and don't be afraid to advocate for yourself.
Most importantly, love what you do. Passion, integrity, and consistency will take you further than trying to please everyone. There will always be critics and people who doubt you, but don't let their opinions determine your direction. Stay focused on your purpose, keep learning, and never stop moving forward.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in behavioral healthcare today is staff retention and burnout. The work is incredibly meaningful, but it is also emotionally demanding. Organizations must continue finding innovative ways to support, develop, and retain their teams while maintaining the highest standards of care.
I believe the greatest opportunity lies in creating workplace cultures where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. When we invest in our clinicians and staff through strong leadership, healthy workplace cultures, and a focus on well-being, everyone benefits. If we're not taking care of the people providing care, we can't expect them to consistently deliver the exceptional care our patients deserve.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My faith and my family are the foundation of everything I do. They guide my decisions, keep me grounded, and remind me what truly matters, both personally and professionally.
Integrity and honesty are the values I refuse to compromise. I believe in doing what I say I'm going to do, following through on my commitments, and telling the truth—even when it's difficult. Trust is earned through consistency, accountability, and character, and I strive to lead by example. I hold myself to those standards every day and value the same honesty and integrity in the people I work with and the relationships I build.
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