After receiving my Master of Science in Forensic Psychology in 2004, I took a different path in life. For several years I taught special education, then opened up an embroidery and screen printing business, joined the volunteer firefighter community, became a Lieutenant, worked with Fire Service Women of NYS to hold an annual camp for young girls interested in firefighting, held several positions on the board of directors with numerous non-profit agencies, and then made my way to Michigan. Over the past nine years I have been employed by MARE, working with children and families during the adoption process from foster care, and interned at Beginning Step, a local substance abuse center, providing assessments, diagnosis, individual and group therapy to adults. This was followed by a position with the New Oakland Family Center providing services to those in the partial hospitalization program. As my Master of Social Work courses came to an end, my husband and I met our three (now) adopted children. I chose to step away from a social work career for a while to spend more time with the kids, helping them get adjusted. One year away from social work, led to six years away. After being exposed to the struggles of adolescents in today’s world, especially those who have experienced trauma, I am opening my practice to better serve our community. It is my personal goal to work with adolescents and young adults who are struggling with substance abuse, to help them find the motivation to change, and to become healthier and stronger individuals. Additionally, I want to create a team of providers with different passions and specialties, to better serve our community.