Welcome to another insightful episode of The Association 100 podcast. Today, we're honored to have Chris Michaels, CEO of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), join us. With over 34 years of experience in association management, Chris brings a wealth of knowledge in leading strategic initiatives across various operational domains.
Key Highlights:

Strategic Leadership and Organizational Impact: Chris shares insights into her leadership journey at AAMFT, emphasizing strategic planning, innovative membership benefits and fostering a supportive work culture. Her efforts have significantly enhanced operational effectiveness and staff retention.

Systemic Ethics Textbook: Explore the development and impact of AAMFT's Systemic Ethics Textbook, a groundbreaking resource aimed at advancing ethical practice across the marriage and family therapy profession globally.

Expanding Global Reach Smartly: Chris discusses how AAMFT is meeting international needs by providing resources and training when and where they are requested, enhancing the association's global impact without imposing predefined solutions.

Advocacy Efforts and Achievements: Hear about AAMFT's advocacy victories, including Medicare inclusion for therapists and portability laws facilitating cross-state practice, which are crucial for expanding access to mental health services.


Join host Colleen Gallagher as we delve into how AAMFT is not only advancing the marriage and family therapy profession but also setting standards for association excellence worldwide. Whether you're an association professional or someone interested in the impact of effective leadership, this episode offers valuable lessons on transforming associations into powerful advocates for their members and professions.
Resources:

Learn more about the Systemic Ethics Textbook and its contributions to the field: https://www.aamft.org/store/detail.aspx?id=EBSET2024 

Explore the Minority Fellowship Program and its community engagement projects: https://www.humansyst.org/Foundation/What_We_Do/Minority_Fellowship_Program.aspx 

Discover insights from the Leadership Symposium and its focus on developing association leaders: https://networks.aamft.org/leadershipsymposium/home 


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