Devin Willis, M.A., Doctoral TLLP

“If you don’t like it, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” This quotation by Maya Angelou acknowledges the reality that while there are things that we cannot control, they do not make us powerless.

As a mental health professional, I strive to provide the space for clients to obtain the tools to exercise their power with intentionality. I have learned that creating this space entails not only obtaining, but effectively communicating an empathetic understanding of the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of others to develop a strong foundation for growth. I have come to understand the importance of utilizing knowledge obtained from academia, personal and professional endeavors both clinical and non-clinical to effectively serve clients from diverse experiences and backgrounds.

I obtained an Associate of Arts degree from Mott Community College and later obtained my Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology from the University of Michigan in Flint. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Western Michigan University. I am currently pursuing a doctoral degree in counseling psychology at Western Michigan University. My past experiences include work as a Youth Specialist (ages 5-17) in residential treatment with children in the foster care system from abusive and neglectful backgrounds. I have served as an intern for an outpatient substance abuse clinic for adults. I have also worked as an in-home ABA therapist for young children (ages 5-7) diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Additionally, I have worked as a substitute teacher and a youth development leader within afterschool programs for high school students considered to be at risk.