10/26/2025
It has taken me a few days to sit and reflect on the opportunity that was being selected as a team captain for Day on the Hill with my fellow American Counseling Association members from across the US. When only 150 people can be present to represent the counseling field, the weight and responsibility and blessing of this and the leadership role does not go unnoticed. I had the opportunity to share my story and my son’s story and advocate for the counseling profession and the well-being of all those I represent through my roles with the Illinois counseling association and the American counseling Association.
The significance only increased by doing the during a government shut down. Every office that we met with, did not have to meet with us. The willingness to do so shows their commitment to the well-being of their constituents back home in Illinois.
I want to take a moment to thank each of the offices willing to meet with us including those of Representative Nikki Budzinski, Representative Jan Schakowsky, Representative Eric Sorensen, Representative Sean Casten; and Senators Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin. Your time was very much appreciated and we can only hope we were able to answer questions and provide you further support and the good work you are doing for mental health and your constituents.
Thank you to ACA for selecting me for the opportunity of a team lead. I learned so much in this process and hope to be able to return again for such an important event.
A final thank you to the Illinois counseling Association for supporting the importance of this event and selecting three of us to represent our state.
