Biography

From a young age, people and their stories have always intrigued me, and I often felt empathy for those that were hurting or going through a difficult time.  Helping people and journeying alongside them through various life circumstances is an honor and privilege.  In college, I studied recreational therapy, which led me to an internship in Chicago and working in residential and in-patient psychiatry settings.  Later, having moved to Grand Rapids, I worked in the public schools as a special education paraprofessional and behavior interventionist.  Having always wanted to study social work, I eventually decided that it is never too late, and listened to that nudge that God had been giving me. 

It is humbling and an honor to walk with college students who are experiencing transitions, autonomy, relationships, personal faith, and taking the initiative for their personal mental health. Working with teenagers and young adults in various settings and with diverse populations, is where I enjoy using my skills.  Experience working in the schools teaching suicide prevention curriculum, gave me a desire to continue to learn about suicidality and provide suicide education and prevention.  I believe providing hope and joy can be powerful in the healing process. 

When I am not working, I love to spend time with my family, especially going to Lake Michigan.  I love to exercise, by practicing yoga, hiking, cross-country skiing, or anything outdoors!  Good coffee and listening to music are also a daily part of my life, whether it is new worship music, gospel lo-fi, folk, or Christian rap, they all have a place! My favorite food is Mediterranean, especially lentils.