20 Years of Heart: Millie Sims’ Journey in Behavioral Health
August 8, 2025
In the world of behavioral health, stories of growth and resilience often intertwine. Few embody these qualities as clearly as Camillicem Sims , lovingly known as “Millie,” whose journey in the field reflects both the unfolding story of building new community programs and her own rise as a leader.
Millie became part of the RHA team through a small but ambitious acquisition 20 years ago—an early chapter in behavioral health that would soon flourish. She remembers those days with clarity: “I recall leaders being so clear about the vision and mission. I was inspired and understood the work ahead of us wasn’t going to be easy, but worth it.” Through these words, we glimpse a time when the stakes were high, the teams were nimble, and every move shaped the future.
As RHA’s behavioral health programs grew, so did Millie’s role. With a modest start, she soon found herself at the heart of a new opportunity in Shelby, North Carolina. The transition came quickly, accompanied by the sense of transformation that follows significant change. “All of a sudden, we were reaching so many people in our communities,” she reflects, marveling at the pace and scale of what was unfolding.
Millie’s entry into the Shelby office marked the beginning of an extraordinary chapter. Initially hired as a qualified professional, she rapidly ascended to the role of director—a testament to her capability and drive. But her story is not just about titles; it is about people and the moments that define them.
Millie shares, “When I enter one of our Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) Programs, I typically begin by meeting everyone. I inform the members that the program operates five days a week, six hours a day. The best outcomes come from attending the program consistently during these scheduled times. If a participant leaves without having learned anything or developed a new skill, it indicates that both the individual and the staff may not have fully met their responsibilities. I am committed to people learning, and I encourage participants to engage and learn as well.”
Throughout her tenure, Millie has been present at every step—witness to growth, driver of innovation, and mentor to many. She leads with vision and a deep understanding of the unique needs of the communities she serves, always mindful of the people at the heart of her work. Millie explains: “What we do is grassroots; we meet people where they are. You must have a heart for the community.”
Her journey reminds us that leadership is not just about decisions made in offices, but about the courage to seize the moment, the wisdom to know when to speak, and the humility to remember where we began. As we honor Millie Sims’ 20 years with RHA, we celebrate not only her achievements but also the spirit of dedication and resilience that will inspire future generations in the field of behavioral health.
To learn more about RHA’s behavioral health services, visit rhahealth.org/bh
