Vanessa is a Clinical Mental Health Counseling intern who is passionate about providing person-centered, holistic care. She believes each person is more than the challenges they face, and that meaningful healing begins when we feel seen, heard, and understood. Vanessa takes a holistic approach to counseling by considering the whole person and the ways our thoughts, emotions, relationships, experiences, and sense of self can influence our overall well-being.

Vanessa earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Trinity Christian College and is completing her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Lewis University. Through her years as an educator, she discovered a passion for psychology and for supporting others through life’s challenges. Her experience working with children and families taught her the importance of creating a safe, supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable being themselves.

Vanessa strives to meet each client where they are and believes counseling is not about changing who you are, but about helping you better understand yourself, recognize your strengths, and feel empowered to navigate life with greater confidence and self-compassion. She hopes to create a space where clients feel safe to be vulnerable, explore their experiences, and grow at their own pace.