I have been through traumas that would destroy most people; childhood abuse of the worst kind, abusive relationships as a teen, becoming a high school dropout and homelessness. I have learned to appreciate the simple things in life, like the simple pleasure of a sunset, the love of laughter, just being present and most of all, my family. It was this appreciation and my ability to just be present, that inspired my employer to encourage me to get my GED and go to college at the age of 42. While in college I took every opportunity available to make myself versatile, from taking courses in special education, learning sign language, to obtaining a minor in Fine Art(studio concentration), as well as joining groups and organizations and taking leadership roles. I went on to secure a masters degree in clinical mental health counseling.I have a world of personal and professional experience with those diagnosed with Alzheimer's, ADHD, Autism, Bipolar Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Schizophrenia, I have learned to be flexible, patient, understanding, and empathetic. I consider myself creative and adaptable, with a strong work ethic, who is resilient, with the ability to encourage others to never give up, to help them find their own resilience and successes in life.