Education & Credentials
A Foundation for Growth
Education has played a significant role in shaping both my professional journey and my approach to serving others. Each degree contributed a different perspective—from understanding human behavior and social systems to navigating healthcare organizations and leadership challenges.
Together, these experiences provided the foundation for my work as a clinician, educator, advocate, and business owner.
Credentials
Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
State of Michigan
Expanding Licensure
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Indiana, Application Pending
Academics
Central Michigan University
Master of Business Administration (MBA) | 2024
Concentration: Health Systems Leadership
Pursuing an MBA allowed me to expand my perspective beyond direct clinical practice and develop a deeper understanding of leadership, organizational strategy, and healthcare systems. As someone who has always been drawn to both helping people and solving complex problems, the program provided an opportunity to explore how effective leadership can influence not only individual outcomes, but entire organizations and communities.
The experience strengthened my skills in communication, strategic planning, operations, and decision-making while reinforcing my belief that meaningful change often requires both compassion and strong leadership.
University of Michigan
Master of Social Work (MSW) | 2021
Concentration: Interpersonal Practice in Integrated Health, Mental Health, and Substance Abuse
My graduate education provided the clinical foundation for my work as a social worker and therapist. Through coursework, field placements, and interdisciplinary training, I developed skills in assessment, intervention, advocacy, and behavioral health treatment.
The program emphasized the connection between mental health, physical health, family systems, and community factors, helping me understand the importance of treating the whole person rather than focusing solely on a diagnosis or presenting concern.
Many of the values that continue to guide my work today—including empathy, collaboration, curiosity, and person-centered care—were strengthened during my time at the University of Michigan.
University of Michigan-Flint
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) | 2018
My undergraduate social work education introduced me to a profession built upon service, advocacy, and the belief that every individual deserves dignity and opportunity.
It was during this time that I began exploring the many ways social workers support individuals, families, and communities. Through classroom learning and field experiences, I developed a passion for helping people navigate complex systems, overcome barriers, and move toward meaningful goals.
Looking back, my BSW provided more than an academic foundation—it helped shape the professional values that continue to guide my work today.
Professional Development
I believe learning is a lifelong process. In addition to formal education, I regularly participate in continuing education, professional training, conferences, and workshops to remain current with emerging research, best practices, and evolving needs within healthcare and behavioral health.
Areas of ongoing professional development include:
Mental Health & Clinical Practice
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Assessment and diagnosis
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Evidence-based therapeutic interventions
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Adolescent and young adult mental health
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Behavioral health integration
Crisis Intervention & Suicide Prevention
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Crisis assessment and intervention
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Suicide prevention and postvention
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Safety planning and risk assessment
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Trauma-informed care
Grief, Loss & Life Transitions
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Bereavement and grief support
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Adjustment to significant life changes
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Resilience and coping
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Supporting individuals through complex transitions
Health Systems & Leadership
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Healthcare administration and operations
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Health system leadership
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Interdisciplinary collaboration
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Organizational development and quality improvement
Professional Growth
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Ethics and professional standards
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Clinical supervision and consultation
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Community education and advocacy
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Diversity, equity, inclusion, and culture responsiveness
Professional Philosophy
At the heart of my work is a simple belief: people are remarkably resilient, and no one should have to face life's challenges alone.
Whether I am working with a student, a therapy client, a colleague, or a community partner, I believe meaningful change begins with connection. Every person brings a unique set of experiences, strengths, challenges, and goals, and I strive to approach each interaction with curiosity, compassion, and respect.
My career has taken me through healthcare systems, educational settings, crisis intervention, private practice, and leadership roles. Across each of those experiences, I have learned that people do not need someone to "fix" them. More often, they need someone willing to listen, help them navigate uncertainty, and remind them of strengths they may have forgotten they possess.
I am committed to lifelong learning, professional growth, and evidence-informed practice. At the same time, I believe some of the most important lessons come from listening to the people we serve and remaining open to perspectives different from our own.
Whether through clinical work, education, writing, advocacy, or leadership, my goal is to help people feel supported, understood, and empowered as they navigate life's challenges and opportunities.