Sometimes the hardest part about a mental health journey is getting started. As the Intake Coordinator and Counseling Intern here at Restore, I have the privilege of making the process less intimidating from the very first contact! Being able to instill hope in all the clients who contact us has become one of the most rewarding parts of my work. 

My background includes a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Aquinas College in Grand Rapids. Currently in my final year at Aquinas College’s Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Program, I am completing my internship at Restore. By far, the biggest benefit of working at Restore is knowing that all my clients have the best support possible, not only from me, but from my clinical supervisors as well.

I have a passion for assisting adolescents, adults, and couples who are working through life transitions and trauma. My areas of interest include adolescent issues, gender and sexuality, LGBTQ+ care, trauma, and women’s issues.

Growing up in the LQBTQ+ Community in Grand Rapids during the 90s (back then it was just called the Gay Community) gave me a strong orientation toward social justice and inclusion. My goal is that every client I meet feels safe and heard in my presence—regardless of gender, sexuality, religion, race, or ethnicity. The therapeutic relationship is the foundation of positive change, and I take that truth very seriously. I use a person-centered approach with my work and have a social-constructivist view of human development, which means we’re likely to address how your family, culture, religion, and other systems contributed to both your strengths and struggles. I am gender, sexuality, kink, and polyamory affirming. 

As for my hobbies and interest outside of work, I think I’d have to call myself an eclectic nerd. I love lifting heavy weights, reading, crocheting, baking, and one of my kiddos is teaching me how to play Dungeons and Dragons (although I prefer board games so far). I find myself switching from one of those hobbies to the next quite often. So if you find yourself bored and switching interests frequently, you’re in good company with me!