How long have you been behavioral health provider? Hi, I am Allison and I am so happy you are here! I have worked in behavioral health since 2018 in various roles and positions, including school-based, briefly in foster care, community-based. I have worked alongside the Wraparound programs for several years to support youth with risk concerns and higher presenting needs. In addition to my work with A&C, I provide contracted work at Brooke’s Place to support youth and families who are experiencing grief or bereavement.

Work Experience Related to Positive Youth Development: My experience related to positive youth development is reflected in my ongoing collaboration, communication, and consistency within my work. Prior to becoming a mental health clinician, I practiced in a skills role in schools with elementary and middle school aged youth. I currently work with youths anywhere between the ages of 7-25 years of age. My role as a mental health clinician working in the community has been my favorite role. I get the chance to interact with parents of clients more frequently in a way that creates support and trust. Proving therapy in the community gives youths a chance to process their concerns in a neutral environment that can help in establishing a greater sense of safety.

Fun Fact: I have gone skydiving (would love to do it again!) and have played piano/sang for several weddings. I began playing in front of large crowds around the age of eleven.

Interests: I love working out, which has always been a great outlet for me. I ran several half marathons and have a love for running distance. I am also very passionate about finding the best brunch spots in Indianapolis.

Education/Degree: My bachelor’s degree is in Health Education and Promotion, which focuses on the health and wellbeing of the community and evaluating efficiency of programs. I went to Ball State University and loved my time living on campus. I pursued my master’s degree and knew I wanted to be a therapist one month into working at Adult and Child. I obtained my master’s degree in social work from Indiana University. I have additional training and education through completing my Credential Sexually Abusive Youth (CSAYC) certification as well as am finishing full credentialing and training for Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).

High 5 Strengths: Believer, Deliverer, Coach, Empathizer, Problem Solver

Favorite Podcast/Book: I love reading non-fiction books, specifically on therapy topics and attachment. I am well known on my team for being a book lover and enjoy collecting books that can be useful in supporting the teams and family I work alongside.

Favorite Music: I love rap and listen to this the most. I know so many great artists that provide a great emotional outlet for me. I am interested in many types of music and generally do not shy away from listening to things that are outside of my normal taste and preference.

Youth Development Superpower Skill: My superpower skill is optimism. Growing up, I was a nick-name person because my friends and family always called me “Sunny.” Despite setbacks, I do my best to maintain a positive approach and bring this energy to my team and work. I take a humanistic approach and believe that everyone can create lasting, meaningful change in their lives.

Why do you do this work? I do this work because I want young people who are struggling to feel that they are enough. So many families and children report struggling to find support who are qualified and supportive to their child who experiences serious mental health or behavioral challenges. I am so privileged to work with the families I do and have been so lucky to see tremendous progress and breakthroughs in families who came to the agency at their breaking points.