This Women’s History Month, Josselyn recognizes three women whose work largely happens behind the scenes but is central to the organization’s ability to serve the community. Their roles differ widely, spanning fundraising strategy, clinical care, and client access, yet each contributes directly to advancing Josselyn’s vision of Mental health for all.
MK Barley-Jenkins
Director of Institutional Giving
For MK, impact begins long before a client walks through the doors of Josselyn.
As Director of Institutional Giving, she oversees the organization’s portfolio of government and foundation grants, securing resources that sustain programs and expand access to mental health care across the community.
Although grant work is often assumed to focus primarily on writing, Barley Jenkins describes her role as far more relational and strategic. “I think of myself as a translator because every funder approaches grantmaking differently,” she explains. Her work involves aligning Josselyn’s mission and outcomes with diverse funding priorities while preserving the integrity of the organization’s care model.
Barley Jenkins joined Josselyn three years ago after a career that spanned marketing, communications, and more than 15 years in arts and culture. She points to both growth and measurable outcomes as defining aspects of her experience at Josselyn. During her tenure, the organization has expanded from one Lake County location to three, while maintaining hospitalization rates below 8% since 2024 through its coordinated care model.
Shreya Jain, MA, LPC
IOP Therapist
Shreya Jain works closely with clients navigating complex mental health challenges through structured, skills-based group therapy and daily clinical assessment. She leads cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) informed sessions, collaborates with multidisciplinary teams, and advocates for clients through coordination with schools and fellow clinicians to ensure consistent, supportive care.
She leads cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) informed sessions, collaborates with multidisciplinary teams, and advocates for clients through coordination with schools and fellow clinicians to ensure consistent, supportive care.
Jain joined Josselyn two years ago as a clinical intern and was later hired after earning her master’s degree in counseling psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2025. She was drawn to the organization’s mission and its emphasis on compassionate, accessible treatment.
The sense of connection within the organization stands out most to her. “My favorite part of working at Josselyn is the sense of community, both with my colleagues and with the clients we serve,” she says, noting that witnessing clients’ progress in real time makes the work especially meaningful.
Ruth Lizcano
Client Access Coordinator
For many individuals seeking care, Ruth Lizcano is one of the first people they meet at Josselyn.
As a Client Access Coordinator, she plays a key role in shaping a supportive and reassuring entry point into services, helping clients navigate the intake process and feel comfortable from their very first interaction.
Lizcano has been part of Josselyn for four years and was drawn to the organization after witnessing how mental health challenges can affect confidence and motivation, particularly among young women. Her work focuses on creating an environment where clients feel understood and supported. As she explains, her role is about “ensuring our clients get the best experience possible by providing a caring, welcoming, and professional environment.”
For Lizcano, Women’s History Month represents an opportunity to lead by example, encouraging both her daughters and colleagues to pursue their goals. She defines Josselyn’s vision of Mental health for all as equal treatment and consistent support, grounded in the belief that every person deserves dignity and access to care.
