Debbie Sirk

Debbie Sirk, has a diverse background in social services. As an award-winning counselor, manager and leader in the field of behavioral health, her years of experience have taken her across the United States and the world.

“Social work was the last field I thought I would be in when I went to college, but I love it!,” said Debbie. “The doors opened and I went through,” she added.

She started her career with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, and worked as a Victim Advocate for the Chippewa County prosecuting attorney in Michigan. From there, when she felt the calling to social services, she was hired and moved up the ranks through Eastern Upper Peninsula Mental Health. While at EUPMH, she assisted with the CARF survey, and the accrediting organization subsequently asked her to become a surveyor. She still surveys today, 25 years later.

Her years with CARF have helped her to appreciate quality care, and she enjoys the interaction. “Meeting people and seeing organizations improve their services for accreditation is satisfying,” she said. “There’s such a need for good quality services, more so today than ever.