Hello
My name is Kaye and I am a Neurodivergent (Autistic w/ADHD, cPTSD, OCD) graduate student at Ferris State University completing my clinical internship at Heartstone Guidance Center. I am passionate about providing support to other Neurodivergent people, whether that is helping them to process painful experiences or learn to unmask and accommodate/advocate for themselves. I believe much mental/emotional distress originates from white supremacy, patriarchy, homophobia, transphobia, class oppression and ableism. I am *decidedly* here to support people while they navigate those things — not to tell them that they will be unaffected if they just try harder. I can hold particular space for those who have been previously harmed by mental health providers and institutions.
Kaye Lafond, Clinical Intern
After years of working on her stuff in therapy, but feeling like she was missing some key information, Kaye learned she was Neurodivergent at the age of 31. She now wants to provide therapeutic support to others who’ve struggled to fit in — for whatever reason. She holds a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Environmental Engineering from Michigan Technological University, and spent seven years working as a journalist covering data, the environment and social issues in Michigan before starting her MSW at Ferris State University. She just completed her foundation year internship, at a SUD treatment agency, where she mainly employed DBT and mindfulness with clients. She is excited to learn more therapy modalities this year. She will graduate in summer 2023.