Population Focus Learning Series - Minds Matter: Exploring Neurodiversity Together

Jess is a mental health counselor serving the community through her private practice, Creating Core Connections, in North Canton- located inside Renew and Restore Wellness Center. The team of independent practitioners there work collaboratively to meet client wellness goals by providing resources to individuals with diverse needs. Recently, Jess accepted an adjunct teaching position at the University of Mount Union in the department of Psychology, Neuroscience, & Human Development. In addition to teaching there, Jess has been a visiting guest lecturer for various university courses speaking on trauma informed practices, self-care, and the queer community. She also serves on the Board of LGBT You, and participates in various volunteer and advocacy events. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Science from the University of Mount Union (2014), and a Master’s in Counseling and Human Development from Walsh University (2020). 

For work prior to being a therapist, Jess has been in education and advocacy for individuals with disabilities through various roles. She has provided direct care during educational summer programs, as both support staff and implementing interventions, for multiple different diagnoses over the years. Post undergrad, Jess worked in public education with Plain Local Schools as an additional teacher assigned to various classrooms, home instruction, and standardized testing. Outside of work and educational pursuits, Jess enjoys working out, hanging with dogs, and adventuring to new places with good humans.

Having a holistic focus in practice helps client's focus on the connection with their brain and bodily needs. By meeting people where they are on their therapeutic journey, Jess specializes in providing trauma informed care while working with people looking to modify their environment to fit their individualized goals. Her previous experiences in education, combined with her current role in mental health, have provided her with a greater understanding of the need for modified instruction to support the neurodiverse community. Jess continues to explore how individuals, especially those in disenfranchised or marginalized communities, can find physical, mental, and social empowerment through connection, in many forms.

Cory is an artist, advocate, and barista. He is currently working towards becoming a peer support worker. He is passionate about disability rights and advocating for the neurodivergent community. He enjoys spending time with his wife and kid, being in nature, and studying things about humans.

Niki has worked at the Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities for 5 years, first as an SSA and now as a SSA supervisor and is dedicated to the agency’s mission of supporting choices and creating opportunities for people with disabilities and their families. Growing up as a sister of someone with a developmental disability, supporting people with disabilities has been a lifelong mission for her. As an SSA, she helped the people on her caseload make informed decisions, coordinated the services they needed, and monitored to ensure health and safety. Prior to working at Stark DD, she has worked at local provider agencies providing both residential and vocational services to people with disabilities. She finds joy in seeing people accomplish their goals.