Current Experience, Degrees, Credentials

Licensed Professional Counselor

Graduated Magna Cum Laude from Western Michigan University 2011 with a Master's or Arts. Currently licensed in the State of Michigan as a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor (LLPC) and Clinical Mental Health Therapist working with clients and patients needing counseling or psychotherapy. Experience working with individuals experiencing depression, loss, difficulties with relationships, self-harm and suicidal ideation, chemical abuse, anxiety, career counseling, and existential issues. Co-Facilitator of rehabilitation groups for victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. Internships at North Kent Guidance Services and Berghuis Psychological Services. Started programs that serve the LGBTQ communities, specifically "Affirming West Michigan." Currently owner, director, and principal therapist at Lakeshore Guidance, LLC. Additional counseling experience listed below.

Professional Educator

Graduated Summa Cum Laude from Grand Valley State University 2000 with a Master's of Education of the Gifted and Talented. Currently licensed in the State of Michigan as a Highly Qualified Professional Educator. Undergraduate studies include a Bachelors of Science stressing Biology and Reproductive Health from Grand Valley State University and an Associate's Degree stressing Piano Performance received from Grand Rapids Community College. Professional Teaching Staff at Zeeland Public Schools since 1993, teaching general education and science, most years in Title I Schools. Pioneered anti-bullying programs such as the "Anti-Bullying Task Force" and "Humanitarian Boys' Club." Successfully spearheaded process to obtain North Central Accreditation for Zeeland's Elementary Schools - completed in 2000. Consultant for Zeeland's Crisis Response Team to prepare students and staff for traumatic events such as the death of a student or school emergency situations (such as potential shootings and hostage situations). Published Pre-Percussion Piano for Upper Elementary Students - GVSU Press - 2000.

Professional Musician

Professional musician having experience in piano instruction, professional composition, and solo performance. Instructional approaches include Classical and Suzuki Approaches for development of all musical stylings such as Jazz, Classical, Rock, Blues, etc. Master's Degree in Education of the Gifted and Talented. Founder and former director of Greenroom School of the Performing Arts. Principal arranger for multi-million dollar productions such as World Party 2000, Van Andel Arena, Grand Rapids, Michigan. Further performance experience with Electric Blues Bands such as Rhythm Chimp and Grandaddy Prunk, featuring all original compositions covering blues, psychedelic rock, jazz, and punk.

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