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Kiara holds a Bachelor of Arts in Human Development and Family Studies, with a minor in Chicano Latino Studies, from Michigan State University. As a proud third-generation migrant farmworker and first-generation college graduate, she is deeply committed to engaging with diverse communities and amplifying the voices of underrepresented groups.
Her advocacy work is driven by a passion for fostering positive change and ensuring all perspectives are valued. Kiara actively seeks to break down systemic barriers and promote social justice to create a more equitable environment for all.
In her previous role as a Career Advisor with Telamon TRC, a nonprofit focused on alleviating poverty, she provided guidance to individuals of all ages, helping them achieve their career, educational, and personal goals. In her current role, Kiara is passionate about supporting survivors on their healing journeys. She is dedicated to creating a safe, compassionate environment that empowers individuals, ensuring their stories are heard and their needs are met.
Outside of work, Kiara enjoys gardening, singing, spending quality time with her family, and maintaining an active lifestyle at the gym. Her holistic approach reflects her commitment to both personal and community well-being.
Bachelors degrees in Sociology and Psychology, Michigan State University (2022/2023)
Logan received his B.A. in Sociology and B.A. in Psychology from Michigan State University (MSU) and is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work through Boston University. Logan has a background in prevention education, crisis intervention, and systems change. He began his career in addressing interpersonal violence as a Peer Educator through MSU’s Prevention, Outreach & Education Department. He then moved to intern at End Violent Encounters (EVE) in Lansing, later holding positions as Community Outreach Coordinator and Capital Area Sexual Assault Response Team Coordinator while assisting with the medical advocacy program.
Logan has a deep passion for strengthening community collaboration to improve social systems for survivors of interpersonal violence. Through his time as a medical advocate, he has also developed a passion for working directly with survivors as they start their healing journey. Logan is particularly interested in the connection between micro and macro social work, especially as it pertains to improving the experiences of survivors as they move between both formal and informal support systems.
Outside of work, Logan enjoys listening to music, playing video games, drinking coffee, and practicing piano.
Arianna received her Bachelor of Science in Sociology with a concentration in Global Gender Conflict and her Bachelor of Arts in Women & Gender Studies from Michigan State University. Arianna returned to her Alma Mater, where she received her Master's in Clinical Social Work with a TF-CBT focus. While at Michigan State University, Arianna has been passionate about working with survivors by being a POE educator and mentor, serving on the first POE Student Voice for Prevention Initiatives Advisory Group, and being part of the Take Back The Night Committee. Working to empower survivors was a continued passion for Arianna, as she previously volunteered to bring awareness to Mott Community College's campus in Flint.
Post-graduation, she continued her work in advocacy of survivors and mental health with her work as a therapist. Arianna also spent her time working at Samaritas, where she worked with undocumented, unaccompanied refugee youth. Arianna is honored to come back and serve survivors on Michigan State University's campus. Her work in SACI and POE inspired her to attain a trauma-informed Master's degree.
Arianna also enjoys spending time with her family and friends, exploring the beautiful nature of Michigan, serving her sorority, Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Incorporated., reading, tending to her many plants, traveling the world, and being a cat mom to three chunky cats and her puppy niece Nouva.
Taylor is a graduate of Michigan State University's College of Nursing in 2019 (Go Green!) and is honored to be back providing care to Spartans! She completed her SANE training in June 2022 and will be sitting for her SANE-A Certification in September 2023.
Previously, Taylor worked in Nashville for Vanderbilt Health as a Pediatric ICU and Acute Care float nurse and Mott Children's Hospital at the University of Michigan as a Pediatric Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant Nurse.
When not at SAHP, she spends most of her time with her MaltiPoo, Benny and he goes everywhere with her. She also enjoys running, going to minor league baseball games, audio books, and documentaries.
Marin received her Associates Degree in Nursing from Lansing Community College in 2016 and spent the first three years of her career working on a respiratory step-down unit at a Lansing hospital. Just prior to the start of the pandemic she started working as a travel nurse and soon found herself giving her all to covid patients. After over two years of working as a covid nurse in states like Hawaii, Arizona, and California, Marin realized it was time for a major career shift as she wanted to feel valued and find purpose in her work. This realization led her to her role as a SANE with the Sexual Assault Healthcare Program.
She prides herself in being empathetic, compassionate, and young at heart. She is passionate about advocacy and empowerment and is eager to share her energy with survivors of sexual assault. Outside of work Marin enjoys spending time with her one-eyed dog, Sully, her family, and her friends. She loves attempting escape rooms and playing board games with her friends, traveling, and is slightly obsessed with the national parks.
Brandie studied at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville, FL and received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She is currently working on her Master of Science in Nursing: Forensic Nursing at Oakland University. She has been a registered nurse for 20+ years. Before coming to MSU, she worked in a Medical-Surgical unit and in the Emergency Department at Henry Ford Allegiance Health (HFAH). Before leaving the Emergency Department, Brandie was a Clinical Unit Leader and an instructor for Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), and Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC). She continues to instruct TNCC at HFAH. She is excited to have been present since the beginning for this wonderful program. She believes the Sexual Assault Healthcare Program will be an awesome opportunity for the college and the community to receive excellent healthcare for those that have experienced trauma and violence.
Brandie also has three beautiful children with her talented husband, an amazing daughter-in-law, a spunky granddaughter, and two fat cats. In her spare time, she loves to read, travel with her family, and enjoy the sunshine.
Cathy is a registered nurse with additional certification as a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Nurse Examiner. She received her BSN from the University of Michigan in 1979, MSN and Women's Health Nurse Practitioner certification from the University of Hawaii at Manoa in 1995 and a post- master's certification in Nurse-Midwifery from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 1999.
As a military spouse, Cathy has lived and worked all over the world including Germany, Hawaii, Louisiana, Georgia, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, and in Michigan where she was born and raised. Most of her career has been spent providng care to women in underserved and miority populations both outpatient and inpatient. Most recently, she spent 18 years in Chicago where she worked in the Nurse Midwifery practice and taught in the CNM/ WHNP program at the University of Illinois Chicago. She also currently serves as a board member and treasurer for the nonprofit organization, Center for Equity in Education.
In her spare time, Cathy enjoys speding time with her grandchildren and large extended family, including her six sisters and thier families. She also enjoys traveling, camping, gardening, reading, crafts, and baking.
Barbara received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Anthropology at Oakland University and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Wayne State University. Barbara had a social work career of almost 25 years; primarily working in the City of Detroit in the areas of substance abuse treatment, community education, individual and family therapy, and medical social work.
In the final years of her MSW career, Barbara returned to school at Davenport University and received an Associate Degree in Nursing. As an RN, she worked at Detroit Receiving Hospital until she moved to Nome, Alaska to work in a Native Alaskan Health Corporation. There she developed a grant funded Forensic Nursing Program for patients who had experienced Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Strangulation, and Child Sexual and Physical Abuse. She remained there for 10 years until returning to Michigan and coming to work for the new MSU Sexual Assault Healthcare Program.
Despite the acute, ongoing, historical, or vicarious traumas evident in our work, Barbara has always been an optimist who sees love and life everywhere. Her feeling of hope is stated by her lifelong hero, Jane Goodall, who said,
“I like to envision the whole world as a jigsaw puzzle... If you look at the whole picture, it is overwhelming and terrifying, but if you work on your little part of the jigsaw and know that people all over the world are working on their little bits, that's what will give you hope.”
Danielle received her Bachelors of Science in Human Biology from the University of Indianapolis, Bachelors of Science in Nursing from University of Detroit, and her Masters of Nursing in Forensic Science from Xavier University. Prior to working for the MSU Sexual Assault Healthcare Program, she was an ICU nurse and OR circulator. Danielle has presented at multiple conferences across the nation including EVAWI, Crimes Against Women, and several Big 10 gatherings. She has trained several of her local police jurisdictions, as well as local fire departments, in trauma informed response to sexual violence and the dangers of non-fatal strangulation.
She values empathy, respect, reliability, humor, and health. In her free time, Danielle enjoys spending time with her kids and dog, as well as running, hiking, traveling, and exercising. She lives by the motto "be the change you wish to see in the world".
Maddie received her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in peace and justice studies from Michigan State University in 2022. While at MSU, she taught Sexual Assault, Relationship Violence and Bystander Intervention trainings to her peers. After graduation, she was a Sexual Violence Hotline Advocate for the Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence. Maddie cares deeply about educating communities about supporting survivors and ending violence. Outside of work, she loves baking, hiking, and reading.
Lauren received their Bachelor of Social Work degree at Adrian College in 2012 and then went on to study Feminist, Womanist, and Queer ethics at Methodist Theological School in Ohio. These programs affirmed Lauren’s interest in walking with people who are making important life decisions and are searching for resources and community support. As the Survivor Support Coordinator, Lauren has a variety of responsibilities, including connecting survivors to the appropriate people at the Center for Survivors.
When not at work, Lauren enjoys cooking, listening to music, and thinking up new tattoo ideas. They also enjoy being outside with their family – especially taking walks with their dog, Jerome.
Judy received her medical assistant certification from Ross Medical School. She completed the SACI volunteer program and serves as a medical advocate for the volunteer program.
Judy brings her friendly demeanor and strong organizational skills to the front reception area. She is generally the first person who will greet you on the phone or in person.
Outside of the office, Judy enjoys her family and her grandchildren.
April attended Lansing Community College for business and marketing and massage therapy. She received her medical assistant certification from Ross Medical School and her Human Resource Certification from MSU. April completed the SACI volunteer program in the summer of 2017, becoming more passionate about the work of the Center for Survivors. As Office Supervisor, April coordinates the daily activities of the office and provides oversight for the budget and HR functions. She thoroughly enjoys her job and her colleagues. In her spare time, she is an avid reader, animal lover, enjoys time with family and friends, and has an interest in “all things food”.
April is known as Justice’s mom and is privileged to take her home each evening.
“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.”
Anatole France
Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Relations and Policy, Michigan State University (2007), Certified Human Resources Specialist, Michigan State University (2022)
Shannon received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Relations and Policy, with a minor in women, gender, and social justice, from James Madison College at Michigan State University in 2007. After graduation, she began a career in community organizing around social justice issues in Kentucky, then moved back to her alma mater community to begin working in the field to end domestic and sexual violence professionally in 2008 at the Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence. Shannon has spent over 14 years working in the movement with a passion on systems change and trauma-informed care. In between working for the statewide domestic and sexual violence organization as both Resource Center Coordinator and then Director of Operations, Shannon spent a few years working on state policy issues centering around clean energy and public goods. Her mix of policy work, community organizing, interpersonal violence advocacy, training and meeting facilitation and operational oversight brings a skillset to Center for Survivors that bridges the administrative work with strategic support to survivors across all programs.
When not at work, Shannon enjoys hosting friends and family for gatherings, cooking plant forward meals, reading, bicycling, and spending time with her spouse and kiddo.
Abigail Solis-Almaguer earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (2021) and her Master’s in Social Work (2024) from Michigan State University. She discovered her calling in Higher Education through her work in housing with Student Life and Engagement, where she provided support to students experiencing mental health challenges within the residence halls. Additionally, Abigail has a deep commitment to supporting survivors of sexual and domestic violence. She has dedicated her internship experiences at both Center for Survivors and MSU Safe Place during her Master’s degree, taking a trauma-informed approach while working with survivors.
Abigail is certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy and prioritizes a client-centered approach in her practice. She is a passionate advocate for survivors, actively working to foster equitable practices and improve policies at MSU to better serve underrepresented folx on campus. Her advocacy extends to promoting mental well-being education and dismantling systemic barriers.
Outside of her professional work, Abigail finds joy in weightlifting, watching anime, and spending quality time with friends, loved ones, and her canine companion, Loki.
Master of Social Work, Michigan State University (2022)
Stephanie received her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Michigan State University with a minor in Human Behavior and Social Services in Spring 2020. She received her Master’s in Social Work with a concentration in Organizational and Community Leadership and a certification in Human Services Management from Michigan State University in the Spring of 2022. During her studies, Stephanie discovered her passions for working with survivors of sexual and domestic violence and began specializing her focus on trauma-informed practices and understanding the ways in which trauma impacts an individual holistically.
Stephanie joined the movement to end gender-based violence in 2019 through her work with a community-based service agency called End Violent Encounters (EVE), where she acted as the Ingham County Advocate, Medical Advocate, and later the Capital Area Sexual Assault Response Team (CASART) Coordinator. Stephanie holds a commitment to systems change work and engaging with multidisciplinary teams to provide survivors with easier access and navigation through various systems they may choose to engage with for supports, healing and justice.
Stephanie joined the MSU Center for Survivors team in 2022 as the Crisis Clinician. In this role, she provides more immediate emotional support to survivors who may be experiencing triggers or other common reactions to trauma. She understands how the impacts of trauma and mental health can affect a person’s ability to function and connect with their environment and supports around them. Stephanie utilizes an approach centered in recognizing an individual’s strengths while empowering them toward reaffirming self-autonomy and growing in self-compassion. She is honored to provide a space to sit with and feel all of the emotions that come with healing. If you are in need of someone to talk to for emotional support, planning in regards to your safety, developing a coping plan, or practicing grounding and mindfulness techniques, you are welcome to walk-in, call or make an appointment with our office during our regular business hours for a crisis counseling session.
When not at work, Stephanie enjoys time spent connecting with nature and loved ones; traveling to new places; picking up new hobbies, such as yoga and embroidery; and spending the evenings cuddling her cat, Pierre.
Masters degrees in Social Work and Public Health from the University of Illinois in Chicago
Kimmins Southard is a licensed clinical social worker with a macro heart and a passion for social justice. Kimmins has almost 15 years of social work experience spanning multiple states (Ohio, Illinois, South Dakota, & Michigan) and has worked in various fields including HIV services, homeless outreach, mental health recovery, the suicide hotline, and 2-1-1 referral line. Kimmins enjoys working directly with clients as well as macro work of systems improvement and program development; and Kimmins finds a lot of joy through the mentorship, training, and supervision of volunteers, interns, or staff in this line of work.
Since 2018 Kimmins has worked at the MSU Center for Survivors, first as an Advocate, and now as the Care Coordinator where they manage a program of Crisis Advocate volunteers who provide immediate in-person support to survivors of sexual and relationship violence in the on-campus residence halls or at the Sexual Assault Healthcare Program. Kimmins is dedicated to supporting survivors with the tools necessary for stabilization and linking them to the resources they need to navigate complicated systems, understand their rights, and pursue their own journey of healing.
Outside of work, Kimmins loves to spend time with their partner and kiddo. Kimmins’ hobbies include arts and crafts, reading, and podcasts. Kimmins aspire to return to their pre-parenting hobby of running very slowly.
Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Michigan State University (2017)
Kathryn received her bachelor of arts in economics and a minor in gender studies from MSU in 2017. She started out as a volunteer with the Center for survivors in the Spring of 2015. After she joined the volunteer E-Board, her passion for working with survivors grew and she become more involved in other Lansing community organizations who dedicate their time to survivors. After her work with E.V.E. in their shelter and at the personal protection order office she knew she wanted to dedicate her time to helping survivors of gender-based violence. Kathryn is the volunteer coordinator for the Sexual Assault Crisis Intervention (SACI) Team. If you are interested in becoming more involved with the program or want to volunteer, please reach out to her for more information!
Master of Social Work, Michigan State University (2015)
Lauren is a licensed clinical social worker. She received both her bachelor and master degree in social work from Michigan State University. Since then, Lauren has spent her time working with survivors of domestic and sexual violence in therapeutic and advocacy capacities.
Before coming to MSU, Lauren worked with local law enforcement agencies as part of a post-arrest response team for domestic violence survivors in the community. This gave her the opportunity to meet with survivors, walk alongside their journey to healing, and help them to achieve their self-defined justice.
Outside of the office Lauren is a mom to two amazing tiny humans. These tiny humans occupy most of her time and she wouldn't trade it for the world. She is also married to a great guy who keeps her laughing even on the toughest days. Lauren is guilty for binge watching reality shows and loving Oreos.
Master of Social Work, University of Michigan (2019)
Lara attended Michigan State University to receive their bachelor's in social work in 2019. During undergrad Lara volunteered for organizations like SACI, and EVE to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence in their community. During this time Lara also completed their undergrad internship at MSU's Gender and Sexuality Campus Center. Lara went on to receive their master's in social work from the University of Michigan in 2021 focusing on community change work centered in supporting Trans, Non-Binary and Gender Non-Conforming students. Lara’s passion for supporting LGBTQIA2S+ survivors impacted by interpersonal violence and complex trauma has brought them back to MSU's campus and it has driven them to help create spaces centered in providing LGBTQIA2S+ knowledgeable, survivor-centered, trauma-informed, empowerment-based care to survivors from systemically harmed communities.
Lara also enjoys spending time with their family, cuddling with their cats, walking their dogs, throwing on their pottery wheel, playing Animal Crossing, or just being outside in the sun.
Alyssa is a licensed social worker in the state of Michigan. She attended Michigan State University for her bachelor's degree in Social Relations from James Madison College and her master’s degree in Social Work.
Alyssa is passionate about working with survivors of relationship violence and stalking and providing trauma informed care. As an advocate, she works in collaboration with survivors to identify options, provide support/information, navigate systems, safety plan, and empower individuals to make choices that they feel are best for them in their healing journey.
Master of Social Work, University of Michigan
Kim is a licensed clinical social worker. She attended the University of Michigan for her bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Art History and her master’s degree in Social Work. While in college, Kim volunteered for organizations supporting survivors of domestic and sexual violence. As a social worker, Kim’s career has focused on serving families and individuals impacted by interpersonal violence at community non-profits, and most recently was a survivor advocate at Oregon State University.
Kim is passionate about advocacy and equity for survivors of all forms of interpersonal violence. She is honored to now serve survivors at Michigan State University. Kim practices trauma-informed, survivor-centered, and empowerment-based care.
Kim also enjoys spending time with her family, which includes three dogs, as well as reading, gardening, and camping.
Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations, Michigan State University (2019)
Sarah received her Bachelor of Arts in International Relations with a minor in Arabic from James Madison College at MSU. During undergrad Sarah worked for the Student Rights Advocates Office with the undergraduate student government at MSU where she helped guide students through the different conduct processes at the university. After graduating, Sarah worked as the Production Manager for the Journal for the International Ombuds Association.
Sarah is passionate about helping student survivors navigate complicated system and working to make postive and impactful change. She is very excited to work with students at MSU again.
Sarah comes from a Lebanese immigrant household and is fluent in Arabic. In her spare time Sarah loves baking, drinking coffee, and laughing.
Master of Social Work, Michigan State University (2017)
Nicole received both her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and her Master’s Degree in Social Work with a certificate in Clinical Social Work with Children & Families from Michigan State University. Nicole began at the Center for Survivors as a volunteer and joined full time staff as an Advocate in early 2020.
In her most recent position before coming to the Center for Survivors, Nicole worked as a behavioral health therapist for a community health agency in Cleveland, Ohio working with various populations including survivors of trauma. She also has experience working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual violence in various capacities.
Nicole is passionate about working with survivors of trauma and providing trauma informed care. She believes that the most important things in providing services to survivors is forming positive, collaborative relationships with survivors and working from an empowerment model.
In her spare time, Nicole enjoys spending time with her family including her partner and baby boy. She also enjoys practicing yoga, reading, coffee, and binge-watching TV.
Master of Social Work, Wayne State University
Cierra is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with the State of Michigan. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Michigan in 2014, and her Master of Social Work from Wayne State University in 2016. Since receiving her MSW, Cierra has worked with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, providing crisis intervention, advocacy, and therapy.
Prior to coming to MSU, Cierra worked as a Social Worker with the Detroit Police Victim Assistance Program, providing services to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and surviving families of homicide. Cierra supported survivors and families by providing trauma informed services, therapy, support, and assisted with guiding clients through the criminal justice process.
Cierra is passionate about providing client centered and trauma informed care to assist survivors with navigating systems and providing survivors with the education and encouragement to empower them throughout their healing journey.
Juris Doctorate, Michigan State University College of Law
Kathleen received both her undergraduate and law degree from Michigan State University. She is a licensed attorney in the State of Michigan. As the Advocacy Supervisor, Kathleen assists survivors in navigating through the systems that impact their lives, and uses the experiences of survivors to improve those services.
Kathleen values multidisciplinary teams that partner together to make survivors’ needs a priority, hold offenders accountable, and increase justice and safety for the community.
Kathleen is the former Program Coordinator of the Capital Area Response Effort (CARE), where she advocated for survivors of domestic violence. She previously worked at Lakeshore Legal Aid providing civil legal representation to survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
Master of Social Work, Michigan State University 2022
Sue received her bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Michigan State University (MSU) with a minor in Youth and Services in Spring 2021. She then received her Master of Social Work from MSU in Spring 2022. She has supported survivors through her experiences teaching trauma-informed self-defense on MSU’s campus, volunteering for MSU Student Voices for Prevention Initiatives, volunteering for the Survivor Advocacy and Crisis Intervention Team, working as a Hotline Advocate at Michigan’s Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence, and interning with Small Talk Children’s Advocacy Center Fall 2020-Spring 2021 and at the Center for Survivors from Fall 2021-Spring 2022.
Sue is certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). She has a passion for racial equity, cultural sensitivity, and empowering those around her. Sue believes everyone deserves to heal in what each person sees best fit.
Outside of work, Sue enjoys embroidering, playing video/board games with friends, and playing with her pet bunny, Kiko.
Avvan received her B.A. in Psychology with double minors in; Health Promotions and Organizational Leadership, as well as her Master's in Clinical Social Work from Michigan State University. Before working at Center for Survivors, Avvan had worked extensively with ESL (English Second Language) Students, MSU students at CAPS (Counseling & Psychiatric Services), and MSU Student Athletes.
Avvan’s professional interests and passions within social work include: Higher Education, multicultural therapy approaches, removing barriers for BIPOC individuals, trauma-informed care, athlete mental health, immigrant & refugee resettlement, as well as integrative clinical work. Avvan believes that everyone is deserving of healing and is honored to be able to provide support and encouragement through a trauma-informed approach to clients. She is nationally certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), in addition to more traditional supportive therapy. Avvan holds a certificate in Sport Social Work from the University of Michigan (2022).
Outside of work Avvan enjoys laughing, volunteering at Lansing's Refugee Development Center, traveling domestically and internationally, reading on her kindle, moving her body through yoga and group fitness, spending quality time with friends and family, and taking walks along the Banks of the Red Cedar.
Master of Social Work, Michigan State University (2014)
Windi is a licensed clinical social worker. She has a bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Spanish from Central Michigan University, and she received her master’s degree in social work from Michigan State University in 2014. Before working at MSU, Windi worked with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault at SafeCenter in Owosso and End Violent Encounters (EVE) in Lansing. She also worked as a therapist at the Sexual Assault Center in Saginaw.
Windi believes that the journey to healing is different for each unique person, and she takes a strengths-based approach when assisting survivors to navigate that path. She is trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and EMDR. She also trained in Ecotherapy with the Earthbody Institute, and she has a profound respect for the power of nature in the healing process.
When she’s not at work, Windi can usually be found spending time with her husband and her cats, enjoying the outdoors, playing board games, collecting kitchen gadgets, or planning some big adventure.
Stephanie is a licensed clinical social worker. She received her bachelor's (2010) and master's (2011) in social work from Grand Valley State University. Prior to joining the team at the Center for Survivors in 2019, Stephanie worked in a variety of settings, serving survivors of domestic, intimate partner, and sexual violence, families involved in the domestic child welfare system, and individuals seeking outpatient mental health therapy.
Stephanie is passionate about providing client-centered, empowering therapy. She views therapy as a collaborative process and loves providing psychoeducation to help clients understand how what has happened to them has helped to shape who they are. This education helps empower clients to take ownership in their own therapeutic process and to see how possible healing is. Stephanie is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
Stephanie spends her non-work time with her husband, children, and dogs. She enjoys reading, being outdoors (especially hiking and gardening), playing strategy board games, running and baking.
Master of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis (2004)
Megan is a licensed clinical social worker in the State of Michigan and earned her master's degree from The Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis.
She became a social worker in part because she recognizes intervention needs at both interpersonal and systemic levels. Her career has centered around trauma, grief and loss involving humans, animals and those caring for animals.
She has experience in residential treatment, outpatient mental health, violence prevention, private practice, school-based bereavement, veterinary social work and organizational wellbeing interventions.
Megan is a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Clinical Scholars 2022 alumna. Through the leadership development grant, Megan spent time during COVID gaining specialized training in Animal Assisted Therapy. She applied those skills directly in her work with Justice Heals, a One Welfare approach to Animal Assisted Therapy where she developed curriculum and co-facilitated AAT groups while partnering with shelter dogs as her co-therapists. Megan is also trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Play Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Megan works from a trauma-informed perspective to honor safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, and empowerment. She believes in the inherent strength and resiliency of all people and helps folks find it within themselves through the therapeutic process.
In her free time, you can find her on her farm tending to animals, the land and humans in her care.
Master of Social Work, University of Michigan (2012)
Jazmin Williams is a licensed clinical social worker who graduated with dual bachelor’s degrees in dance and social work from Western Michigan University and a master’s degree in social work from University of Michigan. Previously, she served as a mental health case manager at a homeless shelter for adults in Ann Arbor for four years. She then became a mental health and substance use therapist at St. Vincent Catholic Charities. Additionally, she was contracted with the Firecracker Foundation to provide therapy to youth who were sexual assault survivors. Jazmin began as the Crisis Counselor for Michigan State University’s Center for Survivors in February 2017.
Jazmin encourages healing through acknowledgement of personal strengths as well as promotion of connectivity to others and the larger community. She looks forward to using movement-based healing experiences to foster reintegration of mind-body connectivity.
In her spare time, Jazmin enjoys spending time with her dog Mowgli, being outdoors, traveling, as well as participating in yoga, dance and Pilates.
Master of Social Work, Michigan State University (2010)
Ikram is a licensed clinical social Worker and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Ikram graduated from Michigan State University in 2010 with masters in social work. Her previous work experience include working with Individuals with both mental health and substance use issues. Ikram also worked with the refugee and immigrant population for several years providing trauma informed care. Ikram is trained in multiple treatment modalities including, EMDR, CPT, DBT, Sand tray World-Play and seeking safety.
Ikram is honored to partner with clients and empower them to find the tools and strength to overcome difficulties and enhance their coping abilities. She offers an objective and safe environment to share their thoughts, emotions and struggles. She believe with balance and openness, clients can create new coping mechanisms to make them stronger and resilient to life’s stressors.
In her free time, Ikram enjoys spending time with her boys, educating her community about mental health needs, making YouTube videos in multiple languages, and cooking.
Ikram is fluent in Somali and Arabic.
Master of Social Work, University of Michigan (2011)
Christie is from Traverse City, Michigan and ventured downstate as a first-generation college student. She received her Bachelor's Degree in French from Grand Valley State University and Master of Social Work degree at the University of Michigan. Christie began volunteering as an advocate with the Sexual Assault Crisis Intervention team then joined the Center for Survivors full time as a therapist in 2020.
As a therapist, Christie strongly believes in supporting survivors in defining what their unique healing path looks like. She enjoys integrating music, art, books, and podcasts into therapy sessions and loves finding new creative ways to encourage healing. She is trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Outside of work, Christie enjoys listening to Motown, knitting, crafts, reading, and diversifying what she can cook and bake. An unexpected sports fan, she often finds herself with her spouse and son at baseball stadiums and basketball arenas.
Master of Social Work, University of Michigan (2008)
Caroline is a Licensed Masters Level Clinical Social Worker. She received her bachelors in Social Work from MSU and her Masters in Social Work from the University of Michigan where she specialized in interpersonal practice and mental health. Caroline provides individual and group therapy to survivors of sexual violence. Through her work in relationship violence, Caroline discovered her passion for trauma treatment and working to end gender-based violence. As a trauma therapist Caroline seeks to facilitate a space for each individual client to heal their past experiences through safety, collaboration and empowerment. Her clinical areas of interest and training include complex trauma, disordered eating/body image concerns, dissociation and interoception. She is trained in multiple evidenced based modalities including EMDR, CPT, ERP and DBT, and adjusts her approach to meet the individual needs of each client.
Caroline is a certified RYT-500 yoga instructor and Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga Facilitator. She offers a Healing Through Yoga series once per semester. Caroline loves offering interoceptive opportunities to help clients reconnect with the body following trauma and believes in the potential for yoga to offer and assist with healing in ways traditional therapies may have not. In her spare time Caroline likes outdoor adventures, biking, travel, and spending time with her family.
Master of Social Work, Michigan State University (2014)
Amanda started work at the Center for Survivors in 2015. Prior to this Amanda received her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in women’s and gender studies and a master’s degree in social work from Michigan State University. During her time in college she volunteered as a crisis counselor, sexual assault advocate, supervised volunteers and coordinated the training program at a local crisis center. Following graduate school Amanda worked as a therapist in a community mental health agency in Alaska.
Amanda is a Certified EMDR therapist and in the process of becoming an EMDR consultant. Amanda is also a Cognitive Processing Therapy provider and has received training in Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Intuitive Eating and Structural Dissociation Theory. Although she has a passion for evidence-based treatments, she strongly believes that therapy should be tailored to fit the client, not the other way around.
Amanda’s therapeutic style leans heavily on authenticity, humor and creating a structure that works for each client. When not using an evidence-based treatment she leans into an integrative style of therapy. As a member of the LGBTQIA2S+ and disability community, Amanda believes in constantly learning and strives to offer therapy that is anti-racist, neurodiversity affirming, and body positive.
On the weekends you can find Amanda soaking up time with her spouse and dogs, skating with her roller derby team, spending time outside or reading.
Master of Social Work, University of Michigan (2012)
Allison is a licensed masters level clinical social worker with an undergraduate degree in psychology from Goshen College in Indiana, and a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Michigan. During her graduate studies, she concentrated on interpersonal practice with children, youth, and families. Allison has a background working with children and families who have experienced complex trauma, particularly in the child welfare system. Throughout her social work career, she has maintained a relationship with MSU by holding the position of Field Instructor for master’s level social work interns.
As a trauma therapist, Allison provides interventions that educate and empower clients as they go through their individual healing process. She is a firm believer in the importance of a strengths-based approach which highlights the individual’s resiliency and knowledge of themselves. Allison is trained in evidence based treatments including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). She is particularly passionate about the healing that can be facilitated through EMDR (ask her how it works and she’ll happily talk your ear off).
In her free time, Allison enjoys being with family, traveling, and doting on her senior dog. While she loves visiting new places around the country and across the globe, Allison has a particular fondness for Northern Michigan.
Master of Social Work, Michigan State University (2004)
Erin is rooted by her passion for social justice and her drive for individual empowerment and community strength. She has a knack for coalition and relationship building. She holds a firm belief that at the foundation of each individual lies the opportunity and strength to overcome adversity and to grow and thrive. She believes it is her responsibility to be a positive force for those opportunities and strengths in the people she meets and the communities she belongs to.
Erin has a B.A. in Psychology and a Masters in Social Work from Michigan State University. Most recently she managed a leading-edge Non-Profit Management program through the Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence (MCEDSV) to support domestic and sexual assault programs across the state in strengthening leadership and sustainability, providing guidance on non-profit management, and delivering trainings on best practices in service delivery. Prior to her role with MCEDSV, Erin was the Executive Director of End Violent Encounters (EVE) in Lansing, Relief After Violent Encounters – Ionia/Montcalm, and the Foundation Director for the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.
Erin has been active in community engagement and healing projects for much of her career. She has served on committees and/or as a mentor in the DV/SA movement with groups invested in helping the homeless, the LGBTQ community, and advocating for children and families. In addition, she has served as a peer reviewer for the Michigan Domestic and Sexual Assault Treatment and Prevention Board, worked as a liaison to the Michigan State University School of Social Work, served on various boards of directors, and also currently serves on the Equity Team in her child’s elementary school.
When not working Erin enjoys traveling, camping, and exploring with her wife and two kids. The family shares their home with their dogs, who just might run the show! In addition to her housemates Erin and her family spend lots of time with extended family laughing and making memories.
Master of Social Work, Michigan State University (2005) Tana Fedewa, LMSW is the Director of the Michigan State University Center for Survivors (formerly known as the MSU Sexual Assault Program. She is a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Michigan. Tana advocates for trauma-informed services, response, and interventions on campus and in the community. She values working in a collaborative, innovative, and multi-disciplinary environment at MSU. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Tana received her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a minor in Women and Gender Studies from Grand Valley State University in 2003. She graduated from Michigan State University with a Master of Social Work Degree and a Child and Family Advocacy Certificate in 2005. She worked as Sexual Assault Therapist, Intensive Outreach Therapist for youth in foster care, and as a Crisis Counselor in a Child Advocacy Center for the first 8 years of her career.
In 2014, Tana returned to Michigan State University as a Therapist with the Sexual Assault Program. In 2018, Tana was named the Director of the MSU Sexual Assault Program and was appointed to the Michigan State University Relationship Violence and Sexual Misconduct Expert Advisory Workgroup. She is actively working to change the culture at Michigan State University. In her spare time, Tana enjoys reading, camping, traveling, and spending time with her partner and her imaginative and spirited daughters and her energetic puppies, Zoey and Henry.
