Many Hats, One Purpose: Why I Chose Impact Over Titles

Like I’ve shared before, I’ve worked in many corners of the mental health field. Out of all of them, one of the most rewarding roles was serving as a behavioral specialist.

It wasn’t always easy. There were days when I heard children under five say they didn’t want to wake up. That kind of pain stays with you. But there were also magical moments—like watching a child who had been nonverbal learn to communicate their needs without hitting or screaming. Those small victories were life-changing, not just for the kids, but for me.

The best part? I was doing this work in my hometown. Giving back to the same community that raised me meant everything. For a while, I thought I needed to become a social worker. Later, I thought psychology was the only path forward. But neither felt like the right fit. I wasn’t in love with school, but I was always thirsty for knowledge and determined to support my community.

So I did what I’ve always done: I showed up. I worked alongside mental health clinicians, clinical social workers, and signed up for every training I could find. Along the way, I found mentors who shaped me and colleagues who inspired me. I even had the honor of speaking to graduate students at Pepperdine—sharing the truth that there isn’t just one path into this field. There are many.

That’s when it clicked: I had so much more to offer. And that’s what led to creating Impact by Summer.

I’m a woman of many hats—youth advocate, trainer, facilitator, behavioral support specialist—but at the heart of it all is care. Deep, grounded care. My mission is simple: to make mental health support and guidance accessible, and to equip people with real tools they can use.

I’ll be the first to say this: I don’t replace the role of a therapist, counselor, or clinical provider. But I do know how to walk alongside parents, educators, organizations, and individuals who want to better support the children, youth, or colleagues in their lives. And for those stepping into the field themselves, I know what it’s like to start at entry level and wonder, Where do I fit?

That’s why I focus not only on behavioral health intervention but also on career guidance—helping people find their place in this work, the same way I found mine.

Because titles don’t define impact. Care does.