Meet the Founders
Dr. Patrice Gutt, DNP, APN, PMHNP-BC
Co-Founder
Dr. Patrice Gutt is a visionary leader and a beacon of hope for women and children navigating the aftermath of domestic violence and sex trafficking. As the President and Chair of Direction 2 Hope, she brings to the organization a wealth of expertise grounded in over 15 years of experience in the medical field, specializing in Psychiatry and Mental Health.
With a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, Dr. Gutt has developed a deep understanding of the complex psychological and physical toll that violence and exploitation can take on survivors. Her clinical work spans both inpatient and outpatient settings, where she has provided direct care to those grappling with the trauma of their experiences. She has seen the devastating impact of domestic violence and sex trafficking up close witnessing not just the visible scars but the hidden wounds that manifest as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health challenges.
Dr. Gutt’s journey into this field was shaped by her encounters with countless women and children who felt trapped, voiceless, and overwhelmed by their circumstances. Her ability to connect deeply with these survivors, listen to their stories, and tailor her care to their unique needs has set her apart as a compassionate and effective provider. Driven by a profound sense of empathy and a commitment to fostering healing, she has made trauma-informed care the cornerstone of her practice. She recognizes that addressing the mental and emotional aspects of trauma is as crucial as meeting the immediate physical needs of her patients.
As a co-founder of Direction 2 Hope, Dr. Gutt channels her expertise and passion into creating a safe, nurturing environment where survivors can begin to rebuild their lives. Under her leadership, the organization has prioritized holistic support, combining temporary shelter with therapeutic services to address the wide-ranging needs of those affected. She is dedicated to empowering women and children by providing them with the tools and resources necessary to overcome their trauma and regain a sense of control and dignity in their lives.
Dr. Gutt’s unwavering commitment to advocacy, education, and compassionate care reflects her belief in the potential of every survivor to heal and thrive. Through her work at Direction 2 Hope, she continues to be a powerful advocate for systemic change, aiming to break the cycle of violence and create pathways to safety, stability, and hope for those who need it most.
Shakyrrah Covington, CPCO, CPMA, MSIT
Co-Founder
Shakyrrah Covington serves as the Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer of Direction 2 Hope, bringing a critical blend of expertise serving over 28 years in Health care and mental health, substance abuse, Compliance, Risk management, and information technology to the nonprofit’s mission of supporting survivors of domestic violence and sex trafficking. As a co-founder of the organization, Ms. Covington plays a pivotal role in shaping its operational integrity, ensuring that every facet of its services adheres to the highest standards of legal and ethical practice.
With certifications as a Certified Professional Compliance Officer (CPCO) and Certified Professional Medical Auditor (CPMA), Ms. Covington has a deep understanding of the regulatory landscape, making her uniquely qualified to navigate the complexities of compliance in the nonprofit sector. Her role involves developing and implementing comprehensive policies that safeguard the organization’s legal standing while aligning with the mission of providing a safe haven for survivors. She is tasked with conducting ongoing compliance training for staff and volunteers, equipping them with the knowledge and tools necessary to maintain a trauma- informed approach that respects the rights and dignity of each client.
A significant aspect of Ms. Covington’s work is focused on protecting client confidentiality, an essential element in the sensitive environment of a shelter for survivors of violence. She ensures that all interactions, documentation, and data handling comply with privacy laws and ethical standards, building a foundation of trust with those who seek refuge and support from Direction 2 Hope. Her meticulous approach to risk management includes conducting regular internal audits, identifying potential areas of vulnerability, and implementing strategies to mitigate these risks effectively.
As part of her duties, Ms. Covington regularly reports to the board of directors, providing detailed updates on compliance, risk assessments, and adherence to funding requirements. Her transparent reporting and clear communication help guide the organization’s strategic decisions, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. By ensuring that Direction 2 Hope meets all legal and regulatory obligations, she helps maintain the organization’s credibility with donors, stakeholders, and the broader community.
Beyond her compliance responsibilities, Ms. Covington is deeply committed to maintaining a safe and supportive environment for survivors. She collaborates closely with other team members to create policies and practices that are rooted in trauma-informed care, ensuring that the needs of women and children are met with empathy, respect, and sensitivity. Her leadership in this area helps cultivate a healing space where survivors can feel secure, understood, and empowered to take the first steps toward rebuilding their lives.
Ms. Covington’s dedication to her role at Direction 2 Hope goes beyond mere compliance; it is driven by a passion for justice and a commitment to creating a safe, ethical, and nurturing environment for those who have experienced the profound impacts of violence and exploitation. Her expertise in compliance and her compassionate approach makes her an invaluable asset to the organization’s mission of offering hope, support, and a path to recovery for women and children in need.
