2024 Addictions Counseling Fellows
2024 Addictions Counseling Fellows
Meet the 43 addictions counseling master's students named as 2024 NBCC Foundation MFP Fellows.
NBCC Foundation Addictions Counseling Fellows
Each MFP addictions counseling master's Fellow will receive $15,000 to support their counseling education and to recognize their commitment to underserved communities.
Lily Archuleta (she/her) – Nampa, Idaho
Lily Archuleta is a graduate of the College of Idaho. She is currently a master’s student in the addiction program at Boise State University.
After graduation, Lily intends to obtain licensure and serve the area where she grew up, primarily working alongside people with disabilities. She would also like to utilize her program’s emphasis to support people struggling with addiction and those impacted by it. Lily is passionate about destigmatizing mental health treatment and those seeking it. Earning this fellowship will allow her the freedom to spend more time educating and advocating on behalf of these populations. It’s her hope that these efforts will positively impact not only Boise State counselors-in-training, but also all of the clients they’ll serve for years to come.
Baron V. Bradley (he/his) – Moncks Corner, South Carolina
Baron V. Bradley is a graduate of Voorhees University. He is currently a master’s student in the addiction counseling program at Columbia International University.
After graduation, Baron intends to work with adult men, particularly those who are in the grips of addiction and who may be experiencing homelessness or are about to be released from prison. He also would like to work with people who are drug court clients. He gives his time, talents, and passion to the men who come to Remnant House Outreach Ministries seeking recovery through a relationship with Christ, biblical principles, and clinical and therapeutic therapy. His motto is “Where there is a call, there is a need, and where there is a need, there is a call.” He is grateful for this fellowship to network and become even more equipped to serve the population of adult men with substance use disorders. Being in recovery from substance use disorder himself, he is teachable and desires to represent the counseling profession with excellence.
La Tonya Brown (she/her) – Avon, Indiana
La Tonya Brown is a graduate of Indiana Wesleyan University, where she is currently a master’s student in the addiction counseling program.
LaTonya is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Addiction Consultant II (CADAC II) and is working toward becoming a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor Associate (LCACA). Her passion for mental health, particularly addiction counseling, is rooted in personal experience and observation. She was inspired to work in addictions after witnessing her mother and many family members struggle with substance use and recovery. Her counseling experience at a dual diagnosis treatment center ignited her dedication to improving access to addictions and mental health treatment for communities of color. As a first-generation college student, she is determined to break down barriers and challenges within underserved communities. With the support of this fellowship, La Tonya is eager to receive mentorship and guidance from other professionals and peers. Her goal is to make a difference in the lives of those battling mental health conditions including addiction, particularly in underserved communities of color.
Monique Cherrier (she/her) – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Monique Cherrier is a graduate of Metropolitan State University, where she is currently a master’s student in the co-occurring disorders recovery counseling program.
After graduation, Monique intends to work with co-occurring disorder clients, namely women diagnosed on the autism spectrum who also have alcohol use disorder. Additionally, she has a passion for the elderly community and would like to work with elders experiencing substance use concerns. She is deeply grateful for the fellowship, as it will empower her to be a competent counselor and build a community with other counselors committed to bridging the gap in mental health care.
Daniel Cochran (he/his) – Boise, Idaho
Daniel Cochran is a graduate of California State University–Fullerton and Orange Coast College. He is currently a master’s student in the addiction cognate program at Boise State University.
After graduation, Daniel intends to work with mandated clients in Boise, Idaho, with a focus on men’s mental health. The populations he wishes to serve include the LatinX, LGBTQIA+, and other underserved populations involved with court-mandated treatment. Daniel is passionate about working with the problem-solving courts and advocating for client rights. He believes offering much needed support to underserved populations in a mandated setting will help improve their quality of life and overall well-being. Earning this fellowship will allow for necessary training to better serve these communities and create change where it is needed most.
Michael Collins (he/his) – Detroit, Michigan
Michael Collins is a graduate of Marygrove College. He is currently a master’s student in the addiction counseling program at the University of Detroit Mercy.
After graduation, Michael will utilize his life experience and training to help overlooked and underserved populations recover from addiction. He also intends to advocate for access to treatment and psychoeducation programs that focus on addiction prevention and intervention. He plans to develop wrap-around services to reduce recidivism for adolescents in the juvenile justice system who are re-entering society and collaborate with other mental health professionals to uphold ethical codes and standards related to serving the most vulnerable members of society. Earning this fellowship will allow him to attend counseling conferences to establish a stronger professional identity, learn evidence-based practices, and advocate for the counseling profession.
Rue Ether (they/their) – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Rue Ether is a graduate of the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities. They are currently a master’s student in the co-occurring disorders counseling program at Metropolitan State University.
As a queer person, Rue aims to serve people of all identities in the queer community with consideration for intersectionalities such as race, gender, sexuality, spirituality, ability, and more. They strive to be accepting, understanding, and inviting of all people. Rue would also like to focus on providing services to economically underprivileged people. This fellowship will provide Rue the opportunity to learn how best to be an advocate for underserved populations and how to incorporate advocacy services in their future practice. Ultimately, Rue would like to spread awareness and increase acceptance for queer people, because although queer voices have been more vocal in recent years, queer people have always existed.
Mark Eubanks (he/his) – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Mark Eubanks is a graduate of Metro State University, where he is currently a master’s student in the co-occurring disorders: addiction and mental health counseling program.
With a deep commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of individuals facing addiction and mental health challenges, Mark aspires to become a licensed therapist. He intends to provide essential resources and counseling services specifically to individuals experiencing homelessness and criminal offenders through a faith-based approach. Mark envisions establishing his own outreach program focused on delivering counseling and community resources. He is dedicated to utilizing evidence-based practices and culturally competent methods in his work, ensuring that he effectively addresses the diverse needs of the populations he serves.
Landon Alexander Forrest (he/his) – Nashville, Tennessee
Landon Alexander Forrest is a graduate of Fresno Pacific University and American River College. He is currently a master’s student in the clinical mental health counseling program with a certificate in addiction theory at Capella University.
After graduation, Landon plans to work with the LGBTQIA+ community in urban areas. He also hopes to utilize the interstate Counseling Compact. He aims to support those who have been overlooked and underserved by society, providing them with hope as they seek treatment. Often, individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community do not receive adequate care in treatment facilities because staff lack the knowledge to work effectively with them or fail to recognize how their identity may impact their addiction. Through various job experiences, Landon has observed these issues, which fueled his passion for earning his degree and working in this profession. He intends to help community members receive care with compassion and understanding. By receiving this fellowship, he hopes to gain the resources needed to build stronger professional connections. He would also like to develop a clearer identity as an addiction counselor and learn how to integrate this identity with his role as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community to better assist those he wishes to serve.
Kate Frick (she/her) – Lawrence, Kansas
Kate Frick is a graduate of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and the University of Kansas. She is currently a master’s student in the human services/addiction counseling program with a graduate trauma certificate at Washburn University.
Kate is passionate about supporting the hospitality industry and recognizes the lack of mental health resources available to queer and other underserved individuals working within it. This fellowship will allow Kate to network with professionals, acquire new knowledge through conferences, and look for grant opportunities to work with community partners and design regional programming to support individuals who work in the food and beverage industry.
Jennifer Fukuda (she/her) – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Jennifer Fukuda is a graduate of Hamline University. She is currently a master’s student in the addiction studies and co-occurring disorders program at Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School.
Jennifer has served people experiencing homelessness for over a decade and recently became connected to the Jewish community through her current position, where she works to support families and individuals who have been impacted by addiction. Jennifer approaches her work informed by the principles of harm reduction and believes it is essential to reduce stigmas associated with addiction and mental health. Upon graduation, Jennifer intends to work with underrepresented populations struggling with addiction and co-occurring disorders, especially people who are unhoused and individuals in the Jewish community. As a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, she plans to advocate for integrated care and evidence-based practices, including contingency management, to create change among the populations she is passionate about serving. She believes the skills she will develop, the training she will receive, and the like-minded people she will meet through the Minority Fellowship Program will be instrumental in supporting her growth on her academic and professional journey.
Avery Jorgenson (she/her) – Marshall, Minnesota
Avery Jorgenson is a graduate of Southwest Minnesota State University. She is currently a master’s student in the co-occurring disorders and addiction counseling program at Adler Graduate School.
After graduation, Avery intends to work with adolescents, particularly middle and high schoolers who struggle with substance use and/or other mental health disorders. She would like to serve adolescents in underrepresented school districts in rural Minnesota. This fellowship will provide Avery with the opportunity to obtain further education and training that will allow her to grow in her professional identity as a counselor and better serve her community.
Amanda Lawrence (she/her) – Gretna, Nebraska
Amanda Lawrence is a graduate of Wright State University. She is currently a master’s student in the clinical mental health counseling program at Colorado Christian University.
Amanda is deeply committed to supporting women who have experienced addiction, trauma, and other mental health challenges, particularly those seeking holistic, faith-based care. The population Amanda serves often includes individuals navigating generational poverty, abuse, and systemic barriers to recovery. Having experienced her own profound restoration and healing from similar challenges, Amanda views her journey as a precursor to becoming a light bearer for others. As the founder and Executive Director of Chayah Ministries, she provides Christ-centered support that emphasizes spiritual growth; evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches; and practical life skills. After graduation, Amanda plans to further this mission through her counseling practice. Her vision is to empower women to break free from cycles of despair, rediscover their identity in Christ, and embrace lives of purpose and healing. By addressing both spiritual and practical needs, she fosters resilience and long-term transformation in the lives of those she serves.
Julia Mague (she/her) – Wilmington, North Carolina
Julia Mague is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. She is currently a master’s student in the clinical mental health counseling, licensed clinical addictions specialist program at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
Julia is a dedicated and compassionate mental health counselor-in-training committed to serving underserved communities with severe psychiatric disorders. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree to become a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) while also working toward certification as a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS). Julia is particularly interested in the intricate interplay between biology, physiological health, and mental health. She seeks to understand how biological factors—such as genetics, brain chemistry, and overall physical health—affect mental well-being, and how these elements contribute to complex, co-occurring conditions often seen in hospital settings. Her goal is to provide holistic care that addresses the physical and psychological aspects of her patients’ health. Earning the fellowship will allow Julia to attend specialized conferences, deepen her knowledge of evidence-based practices, and advocate for better mental health care access for underserved populations. She is passionate about breaking down barriers to treatment for those from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Through her training and fellowship, Julia aims to develop a professional identity that empowers her to provide empathetic, culturally competent care to vulnerable individuals in clinical settings.
Tracey Zhoronie Manyani (she/her) – Colorado Springs, Colorado
Tracey Zhoronie Manyani is a graduate of the University of Wyoming. She is currently a master’s student in the clinical mental health counseling program with an addictions focus at the University of Colorado–Colorado Springs.
Tracey is passionate about aging, wellness, and giving back. She plans to provide addiction mental health services primarily to geriatric populations and other underserved groups. Seniors have experienced various unique, age-related losses that they may not have safe spaces to process and share their experiences. She has observed that seniors often have the least social and physical mobility, which can lead to increased feelings of unattended loss, isolation, and depression. This motivates her desire to serve their mental health needs. Tracey also has a special interest in the LGBTQIA+ community because of their unique intersectional identities, which require resilient coping skills. This fellowship will allow her to learn, network, and advocate for accessible quality addiction mental health services for underserved populations.
Brooke Nutt (she/her) – Port Charlotte, Florida
Brooke Nutt is a graduate of Brigham Young University. She is currently a master’s student in the clinical mental health counseling program at Liberty University.
After graduation, Brooke will continue to work with a variety of ages, demographics, and backgrounds within a rural setting. She specifically intends to work with those who are in need of mental health services and are underrepresented due to legal issues, backgrounds, race, and ethnicity. Brooke is excited to attend trainings, further her education, and gain specialized experience to serve underserved populations with substance use disorders.
Kristen Olivarez (she/her) – Austin, Texas
Kristen Olivarez is a graduate of Texas A&M–Corpus Christi and Del Mar Collage. She is currently a master’s student in the Latinx counseling concentration program at Seminary of the Southwest.
After graduation, Kristen plans to continue working at her current treatment program, which provides substance use treatment to inner city residents. She treats a wide range of clientele throughout her city, including elderly, court-mandated, and CPS-referred clients of various races, poverty levels, and the LBGTQIA+ community. Earning this fellowship will allow her to learn more of nationwide substance use education and prevention to provide better services to her clients and ways to advocate for addiction counselors and their clients.
Madeline Wray Olson (she/her) – Neillsville, Wisconsin
Madeline Wray Olson is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Stout, where she is currently a master’s student in the clinical mental health counseling – alcohol and other drug abuse, eating disorders, and crisis and trauma concentration program.
Madeline is dedicated to bridging gaps in mental health care, focusing on crisis, trauma, and substance use disorders. Coming from an underrepresented background, she is committed to advocating for underserved communities and addressing health disparities through research and client care. Her work explores the intersection of neuropsychology and counseling, emphasizing the impact of societal factors on mental health. Passionate about reducing stigma, she prioritizes connection over shame in recovery and strives to improve resources for trauma survivors. Through advocacy, she challenges barriers to care and promotes equitable, evidence-based interventions. Madeline is driven by the belief that everyone deserves access to compassionate, effective mental health support. She remains committed to fostering change through research and direct client work, ensuring that underserved communities receive the care they need.
Jacob Perkins (he/his) – Christiansburg, Virginia
Jacob Perkins is a graduate of the University of Minnesota. He is currently a master’s student in the clinical mental health counseling program at Virginia Tech.
Prior to his graduate studies, Jacob was a writer and performer in New York City’s professional theater scene for over a decade. As a counselor and researcher, his work will focus on the interplay between sexual identity, religious trauma, and substance abuse. He hopes to serve LGBTQ+ individuals impacted by non-affirming messaging from their families of origin and/or spiritual communities by using a humanistic approach.
Jessica L. Ploen (she/her) – Omaha, Nebraska
Jessica L. Ploen is a graduate of Creighton University. She is currently a master’s student in the clinical mental health counseling program at the University of Nebraska Omaha.
Jessica is a dedicated graduate student with a strong passion for helping individuals heal and thrive. With over 14 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, she has worked to support former refugees, immigrants, U.S. nationals, young adults with autism, and low-income, underserved children and families from beautifully diverse backgrounds. Her commitment to these communities has been the cornerstone of her career and continues to inspire her aspirations. Jessica’s focus is on addressing co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders, as well as trauma—areas where she believes she can make the greatest impact. Through this fellowship opportunity, she aims to deepen her mental health expertise, learn innovative counseling strategies, and collaborate with professionals and thought leaders nationwide. Jessica’s passion is to help everyone reclaim their peace, power, and well-being in ways that honor their unique needs, histories, circumstances, and hopes. She envisions a future where her cooperative and empathetic work as a counselor not only transforms lives but also contributes to stronger, healthier, more loving communities.
Roxanne B. Powell (she/her) – Wichita, Kansas
Roxanne B. Powell is a graduate of Wichita State and Kansas City Community College. She is currently a master’s student in the human services and addiction counseling program at Washburn University.
Roxanne is dedicated to serving Hispanic and African American communities through addiction and mental health counseling. After completing her master’s degree, she plans to continue her work at an inpatient care facility in Kansas while providing community-based substance use disorder counseling. As a passionate advocate for social justice, Roxanne concentrates on understanding and addressing the complex relationships between trauma, incarceration, and substance abuse. Her work specifically targets adults involved in the criminal justice system and mothers facing child protective services involvement. She aims to develop culturally sensitive programs that address the root causes of addiction while promoting rehabilitation. Drawing from her experiences as a professional from an underserved community, Roxanne brings unique insights into how cultural factors and systemic inequities influence addiction treatment outcomes. She leverages this understanding to serve as a cultural bridge, enhancing access to care for underserved populations. Her presence in the profession also serves to inspire greater diversity in addiction counseling and promote more culturally competent care practices. Roxanne is committed to empowering individuals to rebuild their lives while advocating for meaningful reform within the criminal justice system. Her approach combines direct service provision with broader systemic advocacy to create lasting, positive change in her community.
Meghan Rickelman (she/her) – Boise, Idaho
Meghan Rickelman is a graduate of Boise State University, where she is currently a master’s student in the addiction counseling program.
After graduation, Meghan plans to work with adolescents facing addiction, particularly those affected by the justice system, economic instability, and trauma. She aims to practice relational-cultural therapy and multidimensional family therapy to address chronic disconnection and the social stratification that perpetuates it. This fellowship will provide her with opportunities to attend counseling conferences, strengthen her professional identity as a counselor and advocate, learn evidence-based practices to better serve underserved populations, and develop cultural competency.
Yvonne Geneva Marie Rivera (she/her) – Trenton, New Jersey
Yvonne Geneva Marie Rivera is a graduate of The College of New Jersey and Mercer County Community College. She is currently a master’s student in the addictions counseling program at Montclair State University.
Yvonne is a Latin-American woman born and raised in Trenton, New Jersey. She is passionate about working with and serving a wide range of underserved clients facing oppression and mental health concerns. After graduation, she intends to work with underserved communities in inner cities and rural areas while pursuing a licensure as a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of New Jersey. Yvonne also hopes to serve members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Growing up in an inner city and as a member of the queer community, she understands and wishes to advocate and support clients in a space that often gets neglected. Yvonne hopes to help her clients by providing compassion, multicultural competence, and unconditional positive regard to help address the complexities of intersectionality in addictions through her work as a counselor. By obtaining this fellowship, Yvonne hopes to increase her knowledge and awareness to better aid her future clients struggling with addictions and co-occurring disorders. In addition, she believes earning this fellowship will allow her to develop a strong and supportive network of like-minded professionals aimed at helping those in need and destigmatizing mental health issues.
Fermi P. Smith (he/his) – Columbus, OH
Fermi P. Smith is a graduate of Penn State University. He is currently a master’s student in the co-occurring disorders program at Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School.
Passionate about helping individuals struggling with substance use and mental health challenges, Fermi is dedicated to expanding access to care for economically and socially disadvantaged populations. He focuses on developing integrated treatment models to lower provider costs and expand services for those needing co-occurring disorder care. Earning this fellowship will provide opportunities to attend counseling conferences, supplement learning, and develop his professional network. These experiences will enhance his knowledge of evidence-based practices in addiction and mental health treatment. After graduation, Fermi plans to apply to a Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) program with a management concentration to advance his integrated care and behavioral health leadership expertise.
Tracy J. Snyder (she/her) – Clayton, North Carolina
Tracy J. Snyder is a graduate of Walden University, where she is currently a master’s student in the clinical mental health counseling program.
Tracy is a certified alcohol and drug counselor with nearly 5 years of experience in medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) treatment. She is passionate about working in rural and diverse communities to promote recovery. Her primary goal is to empower her clients to uncover their unique paths to recovery while equipping them with practical wellness tools and strategies to enhance their mental health. As a Chi Sigma Iota International Honor Society member, she is committed to upholding the highest standards in mental health counseling. She believes in the vital role of advocacy, working to amplify the voices of those affected by addiction and striving to eliminate the stigma surrounding their experiences. Earning this fellowship will enhance her knowledge of evidence-based practices to better serve underserved populations, connect with other professionals, and establish herself as a dedicated professional counselor.
Rosalba Soto De Frias (she/her) – Clark, New Jersey
Rosalba Soto De Frias is a graduate of New Jersey City University. She is currently a master’s student in the rehabilitation counseling program on the clinical mental health counseling track at Rutgers University.
Rosalba is passionate about expanding access to mental health and addiction recovery services, especially for Latinx LGBTQ+ individuals and other underserved populations. After graduating, she plans to continue her work in the profession of addiction counseling, working with individuals impacted by addiction, trauma, mental illness, discrimination, and stigma. As a Latinx counselor from the Dominican Republic, Rosalba brings cultural awareness and sensitivity to her work with diverse populations. She intends to collaborate with community and state agencies to advocate for increased access to addiction treatment services and push for legislation and funding to support underrepresented groups in mental health counseling. Her focus includes addressing the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in addiction recovery, particularly those who face intersecting barriers to care. This fellowship will provide Rosalba with specialized training in addiction counseling and valuable networking opportunities needed to achieve her goals of serving underserved communities and developing culturally responsive treatment approaches.
Jelissa Thomas (she/her) – Raeford, North Carolina
Jelissa Thomas is a graduate of the Art Institute of Raleigh-Durham. She is currently a master’s student in the clinical mental health program with a certificate in addictions counseling at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
As a first-generation business owner and full-time student, Jelissa is committed to advocating for underserved populations, particularly Black men who are justice-involved or struggling with substance use disorder. Inspired by personal experiences and the loss of a loved one to substance abuse, she aims to establish Hoke County’s first multi-year residential addiction treatment center. This center will provide comprehensive support through therapy, housing, education, and work opportunities, addressing the unique needs of this population and fostering a supportive community. During the fellowship year, Jelissa plans to develop and pilot a community-based health education program focused on addiction prevention and recovery support. By collaborating with local health professionals and community leaders, she intends to create educational materials, organize workshops, and establish a network of volunteers to sustain the program.
Austin Thompson (he/his) – Boise, Idaho
Austin Thompson is a graduate of Boise State University, where he is currently a master’s student in the addiction counseling program.
After graduation, Austin plans to work with multiracial Americans and other underserved populations struggling with addiction and co-occurring disorders. He would also like to utilize logotherapy and strength-based approaches with clients so that they may grow toward a happier, self-actualized life. Earning this fellowship will allow Austin to establish a stronger professional identity within the counseling profession and gain more proficiency as a competent, multicultural counselor.
Annie Vang (she/her) – St. Paul, Minnesota
Annie Vang is a graduate of Gustavus Adolphus College. She is currently a master’s student in the co-occurring disorders recovery counseling program at Metropolitan State University.
After graduation, Annie aspires to work with individuals from underrepresented and underserved communities affected by co-occurring mental health and substance use conditions. She believes that recovery is possible and uses a multicultural, compassionate, and strength-based lens to support people throughout their journey. She looks forward to advocating for resources and funding for culturally specific treatment programs and services so that equitable access to person-centered care is available for all. Annie plans to address the stigma that exists in immigrant communities by creating conversations on how to overcome barriers and challenges related to addiction. Earning this fellowship will support her in attending trainings and conferences, help her develop as a professional through mentorship, and give her the opportunity to raise awareness about what is happening in the communities she serves.
Orlando Vargas (he/his) – Kissimmee, Florida
Orlando Vargas is a graduate of DeVry University. He is currently a master’s student in the clinical mental health counseling program at Liberty University.
Orlando is a dedicated professional with over 15 years of experience as an addictions counselor at House of Freedom in Kissimmee, Florida. As a Hispanic male, Orlando is deeply committed to serving underserved communities, particularly individuals struggling with substance use disorders and other mental health challenges. His work emphasizes culturally sensitive counseling approaches to empower clients on their journey toward recovery and wholeness. Orlando actively engages in advocacy efforts for individuals affected by addiction, focusing on reducing stigma and promoting access to quality mental health care. He also collaborates with organizations supporting veterans and families, addressing unique challenges such as trauma and reintegration. With a passion for holistic wellness, Orlando integrates mental health counseling with principles of physical and metabolic health, recognizing the profound connection between the mind and body. His involvement in these areas aligns with his goal to provide comprehensive care that addresses the whole person.
Ana Villazon (she/her) – Colorado Springs, Colorado
Ana Villazon is a graduate of the University of Colorado–Colorado Springs, where she is currently a master’s student in the clinical mental health counseling program with an emphasis in addiction counseling.
After graduation, Ana plans to obtain her licensure as a professional counselor and an addiction counselor. Ana’s passion lies in supporting the Latino community, particularly individuals impacted by the criminal justice system. Fluent in Spanish, the language of her heart, she is committed to bridging cultural and linguistic gaps to provide compassionate, effective care. Ana is enthusiastic about connecting with like-minded individuals who share her mission to heal and serve underserved populations. This fellowship will provide her with invaluable opportunities to attend counseling conferences and deepen her understanding of evidence-based practices, empowering her to create meaningful change within her community. Ana is excited and grateful to continue her journey of growth and service, striving to make a lasting impact in the lives of those with whom she works.
Courtney Weinrich (she/her) – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Courtney Weinrich is a graduate of Arizona State University. She is currently a master’s student in the addiction counseling program at Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School.
After graduation, Courtney plans to work with adolescents and transition-age youth, particularly those impacted by substance use disorders and mental health challenges. She is passionate about working with underserved populations, including LGBTQIA+ youth and individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. Her experience in youth residential treatment facilities and addiction recovery has fueled her dedication to creating culturally responsive and trauma-informed care. This fellowship will allow Courtney to deepen her knowledge of evidence-based practices for addressing substance use and co-occurring disorders. She plans to attend professional conferences, pursue specialized certifications, and develop innovative resources to bridge gaps in accessibility for youth in need. Courtney is committed to advocating for improved behavioral health services and ensuring that underserved populations receive the support they deserve.
Bryn Winegar (she/her) – Meridian, Idaho
Bryn Winegar is a graduate of Brigham Young University–Idaho. She is currently a master’s student in the addiction counseling program at Boise State University.
After graduation, Bryn will focus her efforts on working with underserved populations, with an emphasis on providing services to neurodivergent women who have been diagnosed later in life. Bryn anticipates getting her doctoral degree in counseling education, where she will support the upcoming generation of counselors in their efforts to prioritize underserved groups within the addiction field. Earning this fellowship will help Bryn attend counseling conferences, learn evidence-based practices, and develop a strong professional identity, allowing her to better serve her communities and share these insights with her future students.
Beverly Wooden (she/her) – Fort Worth, Texas
Beverly Wooden is a graduate of Texas Christian University. She is currently a master’s student in the addiction counseling program at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center.
Beverly is currently employed at a nonprofit organization, where she leads groups for individuals participating in the recovery court program for substance use disorders. After completing her master’s degree, she plans to continue her work with underserved populations through nonprofit initiatives. Beverly is particularly passionate about supporting individuals in rural communities who are struggling with co-occurring disorders, including behavioral and substance addictions. Receiving this fellowship will provide Beverly with invaluable opportunities to enhance her knowledge and skills by connecting with like-minded professionals who share her commitment to working with underserved populations. She is grateful for the opportunity to attend conferences and training sessions, which will allow her to expand her expertise and in providing evidence-based treatments more effectively.
