Professional Development for the Behavioral Health Field of Minnesota
Professional Development for the Behavioral Health Field of Minnesota
Voices from the Work
I have had the pleasure of working alongside Jess in a variety of professional settings, and I have always been impressed by her genuine care for others, clinical expertise, and leadership. I first came to know Jess while she was in a leadership role at a local mental health treatment center, where I had the opportunity to see firsthand her ability to support and motivate others, strengthen team dynamics, and lead with both compassion and confidence. Jess is an exceptional clinician and a thoughtful, dedicated leader. I would recommend her without hesitation and feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work alongside her.
-LMFT, LADC
Clinical consultant
I worked under Jess as my Clinical Director at a treatment center for over a year and can say that I have never experienced such quality leadership. She was truly the heart and soul of the organization.
Jess is laser sharp. Her attention to detail and ability to manage is truly astounding, but what takes her abilities to a different level is that she manages with such humanity. Jess led with influence instead of staunch authority, and by observing her I learned to lead with warmth, empathy, accountability, and clear boundaries.
Jess' Relational Cultural Theory training and education is seamlessly interwoven into how she approaches her work with both clients and staff. What was always clear, without her ever saying it, is that Jess values people over metrics. She never made me feel like I was easily replaceable. Instead, I felt empowered because she recognized and valued my unique contributions, not just as a staff member, but as a person.
Jess has a mind like a steel trap and the heart of a lion. I am so fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from her and can only hope I touch a fraction of the lives that she has.
-Certified peer recovery specialist
When I first entered the recovery field, I was nervous and uncertain. Having Jess as my mentor, supervisor, and clinical director gave me the confidence to grow because I always knew I had someone who was patient, compassionate, supportive, and willing to challenge me to become the best version of myself.
Jess made me feel heard, valued, and capable. No matter the question or challenge, she created a safe space where I could learn without fear of judgment. She never made me feel inadequate; instead, she encouraged me, believed in me, and helped me trust my abilities.
Jess has played an instrumental role in shaping both the professional and person I am today. She empowered me to find my voice, pursue my goals, and believe in my potential. I truly would not be where I am today without her guidance, leadership, and unwavering support.
- Certified peer recovery specialist
I have had the pleasure of knowing and working with Jess in a professional capacity since 2012, when we completed our LADC programs together. Later in our careers, after we had both earned our LICSW credentials, we established our private practices at approximately the same time through the same organization.
Throughout that time, I have watched Jess grow into an exceptional clinician. She has consistently maintained a strong caseload, which speaks to the trust her clients place in her and the support they feel in working with her. Jess is empathetic, compassionate, supportive, and highly knowledgeable in evidence-based clinical practices, including trauma-focused therapy.
Approximately a year ago, I welcomed Jess to the Hybrid Counseling team. Since joining us, she has continued to provide the same excellent standard of care I have observed throughout her career. She is one of the strongest clinicians on our team and is highly regarded by both clients and colleagues.
Whether providing clinical care, supervising newer clinicians, or educating students and developing professionals, Jess demonstrates a high level of competence, professionalism, and integrity. She is an exceptionally capable and talented clinician, and I recommend her without reservation.
- LICSW, ladc
founder of behavioral health program
Jess has remained one of the most influential people in my career. As my direct supervisor, she led me with integrity and expertise. Consistently going above and beyond for both staff and clients alike. Her guidance and encouragement played a pivotal role in my professional growth and helped shape me in to the supervisor I currently am today. She has made a lasting impact on the expansion of my career and I will continue to carry the lessons she taught me throughout my professional journey.
Anyone fortunate enough to work alongside Jess will quickly recognize the dedication, leadership, and heart she brings to everything she does.
- Certified peer recovery specialist supervisor
As a leader, Jess operated in excellence. She was always helping me to see my potential and strive for the best. Jess provided me with a safe space to grow professionally with honest and constructive guidance. As a supervisor she was always working from a calm and considerate space, no matter what the situation was. She taught me how we show up for our clients and for each other in the workplace.
In previous companies I had experienced a lot of different types of leadership and supervison, some good and some not. When Jess became my supervisor she showed me how a leader should be. Holding themselves with integrity, authenticity, compassion and kindness. She truly has impacted my life professionally and personally and for that I am extremely grateful.