Building Consensus: My Work with a Community Mental Health Board

I recently completed a meaningful consulting project, partnering with the DeKalb County Community Mental Health Board (DCCMHB) to facilitate collaborative decision-making on their organizational capacity. This project powerfully reinforced how a thoughtful, inclusive process strengthens organizational dynamics and enables vital decision-making within community organizations.

My primary goal was to create an inclusive space where every diverse perspective was genuinely heard and valued. The process unfolded through key phases:

  • Individual Discovery Calls: One-on-one consultations with board and staff members gathered unique perspectives and recommendations, providing a strong foundation for the retreat.
  • Facilitated Board Retreat: I guided strategic discussions and exercises (e.g., SWOT, prioritization) to explore capacity and staffing needs, fostering authentic collaboration and concrete consensus.

This project powerfully reinforced how a thoughtful, inclusive process strengthens organizational dynamics and enables vital decision-making within community organizations. Witnessing the dedication of the DCCMHB board and staff has been an honor. Their stewardship of their mission and inspiring community service are highly commendable, and I hold profound respect and appreciation for this board and their vital work.

Deanna Cada, Executive Director of the DeKalb County Community Mental Health Board, shared her experience:

“I had the pleasure of learning from Daniel during a professional webinar.  When it came time to develop a program for the DeKalb County Community Mental Health Board’s annual retreat, I knew Daniel had the perspective, passion, and knowledge to make the day a success.  Daniel took the time to understand the request, put together an informed and flexible presentation, and guided the Board through a complex and thoroughly productive process.  Everyone was pleased with the result, and Daniel’s facilitation played a key role in making that happen.  Everyone agreed that Daniel’s work made the day a victory!”