Full circle: Brian Shirley’s journey from inspired youth to leader in behavioral health
Brian is the Child Study and Treatment Center Deputy Executive Officer within DSHS’ Behavioral Health and Habilitation Administration.
When Brian Shirley was just a kid from Puyallup, sitting in the worn vinyl chair across from his school counselor, he had no idea that one person would shape the trajectory of his entire life. “He was authentic and genuine,” Shirley recalls. “That’s the kind of person I wanted to be. I wanted to help people in that way.”
Thirty years later, that seed of inspiration has grown into a remarkable career in state service that’s touched thousands of lives, spanned multiple systems of care, and most recently brought him full circle: serving as deputy chief executive officer of the Child Study and Treatment Center within DSHS’ Behavioral Health and Habilitation Administration.
Shirley began his state service in 1995, a time when the crack epidemic had devastated communities and overwhelmed juvenile rehabilitation facilities. “I enjoyed working one-on-one with incarcerated youth and their families, helping them learn new ways of solving complex problems and addressing issues that deeply impact lives.”
Shirley learned quickly that the work wasn’t just about rules and routines. It was about building trust, showing up, and believing in change. “Coming in with humility and a desire to learn taught me early on how to connect with people from different backgrounds. It was certainly impactful seeing a lot of trauma and successes over the years,” he said.
“I saw some youth go on to become professors or airline pilots, while others passed away from tragedies such as shootings or car accidents.” These experiences shaped his outlook and deepened his commitment to equity, compassion, and second chances.
That belief was tested and reinforced over the years. In 2018, after 23 years with the former DSHS’ Juvenile Rehabilitation Administration, Shirley transitioned to the Special Commitment Center, where he sharpened his leadership skills. “It felt good working with systems and managing people,” he said. “We focused on staff-led change, building a culture of participation and engagement. That made a big difference in outcomes and morale.”
At SCC, the work was challenging, centered on individuals with ingrained personality disorders, where progress often came slowly. “Success came from collaboration with clinical teams and intentional treatment planning,” he said. “Even when change was incremental, the process was inspiring.”
Despite being told he’s “too optimistic,” Shirley sees that trait as a strength. “I like the challenge of the difficult moment. I meet people where they are and help synthesize goals, whether it’s for individuals or teams.”
In March 2020, precisely two weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns started, he stepped into a new leadership role as program director of the Fort Steilacoom Competency Restoration Program (now called the Steilacoom Unit). His work helped bridge behavioral health and the criminal justice system. In a smaller 30-bed facility, Shirley oversaw multidisciplinary teams deeply committed to restoring hope and stability.
“A person could come in very unwell and within a few weeks experience a dramatic shift. Sometimes, the right medication or support is all it takes for someone to start taking care of themselves or begin feeling excited for the future and the things they would like to accomplish,” he said.
In his newest role as Deputy CEO at CSTC, Shirley has returned to his roots — supporting youth and families — but with a broader lens. From a leadership vantage point, he shapes systems, policy, and a new generation of behavioral health professionals.
“I’ve come full circle,” he reflects. “I was inspired by someone who cared, and now I have the chance to help build a system that inspires others. It truly feels like coming home.”
That sense of home is personal. For eight years, Shirley also facilitated a parent support group, many of whom had children receiving care at CSTC. “Hearing laughter and joy from kids who’ve faced trauma or serious illness — that just hits me at my core. Those are the moments that remind you why this work matters.”
To those just beginning their journey in state service or behavioral health, Shirley offers simple but powerful advice:
“Start where you are. Care deeply. Stay curious. Lean into tough conversations, but never forget to take care of your own mind first.”
For him, that means staying grounded in family and soccer. “I played growing up, and these days I stay connected by watching the Seattle Sounders — since 1974 — and Chelsea in England,” he says with a smile.
After three decades of service, Shirley’s story isn’t just about longevity — it’s about impact, resilience, and the power of returning to where it all began, this time as a leader ready to inspire the next generation.
