SOULUTIONS FOR YOUR MIND & BODY
Kaylee Johnson
Western Michigan University
My undergraduate degree is in psychology and during those four years, I gained experience doing research in two different labs. I love the pursuit for knowledge and curiosity that comes with research, but knew that I wanted a career with more direct, personal interactions.
I worked in a residential Substance Use Disorder unit for my first clinical experience, and while my main clinical experience thus far has focused on recovery from substance use, I have also worked with many other co-occurring mental health diagnoses. My specialization at Western Michigan is holistic approaches to mental health, and one of my passions is mindfulness-based therapies. I have experienced first-hand the healing that can come from using mindfulness as a coping skill.
Each of us experience unique challenges and hardships throughout our lives. I learned from my own therapist that it is not about learning how to calm the stormy waves, but instead, learning how to stay above the water and find ways to prepare for when the next wave inevitably comes.
One thing I wish everyone knew is that they make this world a better place. You matter and how you feel matters. My hope as a mental health professional is to create a safe, supportive environment for clients to process through heavy emotions and know they are not alone.
Ahna West
Michigan State University
Life provides everyone with experiences of grief, fear, loss, anxiety, challenges, and wins, whether we want them or not. Personally, I have faced parental loss, navigated the complexities of being adopted, and worked through my own challenges. These experiences have shaped my aspiration and focus as a therapist: to be a collaborative partner in your journey of life, providing a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment.
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, which has given me a foundation in understanding human behavior, cognition, and emotion through empirical research. This background provides me with a solid psychological lens. My graduate work has further equipped me with a social work perspective, incorporating sociological theories, systems theory, and ecological perspectives that consider individuals and their environments. I enjoy working with various lenses or perspectives to adopt a holistic approach.
In my previous internship, I worked with individuals aged 18-60 in a group setting who experienced depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I implemented a strength-based approach, inner child healing, and Narrative Therapy
Emma Pothoven
Western Michigan University
I am passionate about creating a safe and accepting space for all my clients so that they can feel heard and empowered to make change.
Throughout my 4 years in the field so far, I have held roles such as social worker, psychiatric supporter, and mediator in a psychiatric hospital and non-profit settings. These experiences have allowed me to work closely with individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults, helping them navigate issues such as trauma, depression, OCD, anxiety, PTSD, suicidality, and self-harm.
In my approach, I emphasize a strength-based perspective that honors each person’s unique experiences and qualities. I strive to create a nurturing and empathetic environment where you feel truly seen and heard. My commitment is to support you in making meaningful changes by fostering self-determination, encouraging open communication, and developing effective coping strategies. I believe in empowering individuals to take charge of their own healing journey and personal growth while walking alongside them.
I am excited to continue expanding my knowledge and skills, and I am dedicated to providing compassionate and individualized support as we work together towards your goals.