Tracee Franssen is a dual-diagnosis therapist and clinic supervisor at the Friendship House Treatment Facility. Holding a Bachelor’s in Psychology, Master’s in Clinical Counseling, license as an independent mental-health practitioner, and license in drug and alcohol therapy, she hopes to destigmatize and bring awareness to many of the problems their clients face. She started her career as an intern and, later, employee at a crisis stabilization and detox facility. ere, Franssen saw both mental health and substance abuse issues, and how the two problems worked in conjunction in the people she assisted. She came to work at the Friendship House in 2017, following a recommendation by her old supervisor and current worker at the facility, Dr. Keith Branfold. Dr. Brandfold was creating an outpatient clinic and wanted Franssen to help “jump start” the operations. e Friendship House at that time was only a half-way home. Franssen and the Friendship House sought to help all individuals who needed their care: children, adults, and families. ey are finding continued success and are exploring new avenues to help their clients. Working as a counselor at the Friendship House seeing 20 to 30 clients a week, Franssen also oversees the provisionally licensed therapists and providers as their clinical supervisor. Working with her team, Franssen assures that her employees and coworkers are properly trained, and that the general oce is handling its caseloads properly. Facilitating learning is a large responsibility that Franssen heads. “It is awesome having an environment where we are always learning and willing to help one another,” comments Franssen, “and give each feedback. It is a great on-going teaching environment.” Currently, Franssen is focusing on trauma work, working on additional training. Certified for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Franssen hopes to use these techniques in aiding herself in being knowledgeable and helping folks in any type of trauma they may be experiencing. Additionally, Franssen is looking to expand support groups at the Friendship House, and in the foreseeable future, opening an intensive outpatient program alongside their regular services. Garnering the additional support they need, Franssen is excited for the care the Friendship House can and will provide. Franssen sees it as her mission to destigmatize substance abuse and mental health issues. She hopes to bring more awareness on the struggles that her clients are going through.
Made with FlippingBook - Online Brochure Maker