Meet Our Team

Hablo español, trabajo con niños y adultos. Ileana is a native of Guatemala and fluent in Spanish, with 13 years of experience working with children and adults across all age groups. Her approach is always centered on each person’s unique needs and personal goals. She is trained in Sand Tray Therapy and primarily uses an experiential therapeutic orientation with existential influences.

Ileana has a special passion for supporting immigrant communities worldwide, helping individuals navigate cultural adjustment and understand the vital role mental health plays in their lives. Her work focuses on creating a safe, empathetic space for growth and healing while honoring cultural identity and lived experiences.

Asha is a transracial adoptee from India who earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the College of St. Benedict. She has always valued honoring people’s journeys and stories. After nearly 20 years working in the healthcare field, Asha returned to school to pursue her passion for mental health and recently earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky.

As a therapist, Asha’s goal is to walk alongside individuals, offering support and honoring their stories as they navigate life’s challenges. She believes every client brings unique experiences to therapy and emphasizes meeting people where they are. Her approach is authentic, client-centered, trauma-informed, and tailored to each person’s needs and goals. Drawing from her personal story, Asha is deeply committed to working with and advocating for underserved BIPOC communities.

Outside of work, Asha enjoys spending time with her husband and cheering on their two sons at soccer games and their daughter at swim meets. In her free time, she volunteers as a board member for their local soccer club, loves reading, and enjoys connecting with friends.

KayeAnn Mason is an LICSW in private practice in Fridley Minnesota. Her clinical practice centers on serving the underserved and decolonizing eurodominant psychological interventions to improve their effectiveness with racially and ethnically diverse clients. She is co creator of the Therapy so White Seminars that she has presented to counseling centers across the country including Duke University and Vanderbilt University Counseling and Psychological Services Centers. She is a license supervisor who focuses on the care and development of BIPOC clinicians assisting them with becoming highly competent therapists who understand the unique interplay between mental health and marginalization. KayeAnn also works as a DHS Qualified Supervising Professional and serves on the state Autism Advisory Board, in addition to providing clinical oversight for an Autism treatment center in Saint Paul, MN.

Serenity was born in Marshall, Minnesota, and spent her early years living with her grandmother before moving to the suburbs of St. Paul at age six to live with close relatives. A unique aspect of her childhood is that she spoke only Hmong until starting school—a formative experience that shaped her resilience and perspective. Growing up deeply connected to her cultural roots, Serenity learned the importance of preserving culture, a value that continues to guide her personal and academic journey.

Adjusting to life in the suburbs brought a significant cultural shift, requiring her to navigate between her heritage and a new environment. This experience taught Serenity confidence, adaptability, and empathy—qualities that influence her work today. She will graduate in fall 2025 with a degree in Communications: Leadership and Advocacy and a minor in Ethnic Studies. Her academic path reflects her passion for amplifying underrepresented voices, fostering inclusive dialogue, and driving meaningful social change.

Outside of her studies, Serenity enjoys collecting fun pens, plushies, trinkets, and blind box items—small treasures that reflect her appreciation for life’s little joys.

Meryl is a dedicated Administrative Coordinator with a strong background in customer service, project management, and data research. With her expertise, she supports the smooth operation of Roots Wellness Center by handling administrative tasks, managing client intake and referrals, and helping to promote a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive environment. Meryl is passionate about providing behind-the-scenes support that enables the team to focus on offering the highest quality care for those navigating mental health challenges.

Outside of work, Meryl loves spending time with kids, hiking, and reading books that explore new ideas. Whether it’s making memories with the little ones or enjoying the outdoors, she believes in the power of self-care to nourish both the mind and body.

Xay was born in California and relocated to Minnesota at the age of 10. He is married and a proud father to his son, West, who recently celebrated his 10‑month milestone. Xay earned an associate degree in Computer Science in 2019 and brings more than six years of IT experience across healthcare, education, and manufacturing environments.

Hablo español, trabajo con niños y adultos. Ileana is a native of Guatemala and fluent in Spanish, with 13 years of experience working with children and adults across all age groups. Her approach is always centered on each person’s unique needs and personal goals. She is trained in Sand Tray Therapy and primarily uses an experiential therapeutic orientation with existential influences.

Ileana has a special passion for supporting immigrant communities worldwide, helping individuals navigate cultural adjustment and understand the vital role mental health plays in their lives. Her work focuses on creating a safe, empathetic space for growth and healing while honoring cultural identity and lived experiences.

Eric is a multilingual BIPOC professional with ethno-cultural roots in Europe, West Africa, and Indigenous Brazil. He completed his master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at St. Mary’s University and is trained in EMDR.

Eric observes socio-political-historical systems and influences on mental health. He has a strong interest in post-modern decolonial approaches to therapy including multicultural, narrative, and solution-focused modalities. With experience as a musician and former music teacher with a lifelong passion for music, he integrates rhythm, movement, and creative expression into his therapeutic practice.

As a late-discovery donor-conceived person (DCP), Eric is actively involved in DCP advocacy and is committed to building solidarity and expanding healing within the growing DNA surprises community.

Carrie grew up in North Dakota and spent many years working in childcare before returning to her original passion—helping couples and families. She moved to the Twin Cities in 2011 to pursue her master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, graduating in 2014. Since then, Carrie has provided psychotherapy to individuals and families, with a strong focus on advocacy and supporting families involved in county and state systems to strengthen their foundations.

Carrie’s therapeutic approach is experiential, solution-focused, and trauma-informed. She believes in challenging systemic barriers and creating safe spaces for individuals and families to explore, heal, and grow.

Alex Rick, first of his name, has lived many lives. Growing up on the mean streets of Coon Rapids, MN, Alex attended the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, earning his Masters in Education and Secondary English Teaching License. He subsequently earned his Special Education teaching licenses in Emotional/Behavioral & Learning Disorders. Alex worked with young adults who struggled with meeting their behavioral needs in alternative educational settings for 6 years before deciding to pursue a career in counseling. Alex is a graduate of the Masters of Integrative Behavioral Health program at the University of Minnesota. As a fellow member of the recovery environment, Alex is passionate and invested in helping individuals overcome their personal struggles to discover their unique strengths. Alex approaches support through a community-minded, strengths-based approach, to help clients realize the integral role they play in their own lives and the lives of their communities.

In his free time, Alex enjoys riding his motorcycle, pursuing new artistic ventures, such as playing guitar, woodworking, and metalworking. reading, traveling, and hanging out with his dog, Luther.

Lauren grew up in a small town in Georgia and later moved to Minneapolis to attend the University of Minnesota, where she earned her undergraduate degree in Child Psychology. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Integrative Behavioral Health at the University of Minnesota, with a focus on harm reduction. Lauren’s professional experience includes early childhood education, community and youth programming in Minneapolis, and social services, before becoming a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC).

As an LADC, Lauren prioritizes the voices of her clients by providing holistic, trauma-informed care for addiction and honoring their lived experiences. She embraces a strengths-based approach, walking alongside individuals as they build skills and celebrate emotional growth. Growing up in an underserved community fuels her commitment to increasing accessibility to services and creating a more equitable environment for all.

Outside of her work at Roots and her studies at the University, Lauren enjoys hiking up north, crocheting, and planning her next camping adventure.

Antisar Vickers is a Master of Social Work (MSW) student with professional experience as a Case Manager supporting families within St. Paul Public Schools. Her work focuses on family stabilization, school attendance, and addressing the impacts of trauma, stress, and systemic barriers on children and caregivers.

Antisar brings a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to her practice and is especially interested in supporting families through healing-centered and culturally responsive interventions. She is passionate about creating supportive, collaborative spaces that promote growth, resilience, and long-term well-being for individuals and families.

Eh Hser Ku is a Master of Social Work (MSW) student at St. Mary’s University of Minnesota, where she is building the skills and knowledge needed to serve diverse communities with compassion and cultural awareness. Originally from the Karen community, she immigrated to the United States at the age of ten. Her personal journey as an immigrant has deeply shaped her commitment to supporting individuals and families navigating complex life transitions.

Professionally, she serves as a social worker in a long-term care (LTC) setting, providing vital support to residents and their families. This experience has strengthened her passion for advocating for vulnerable populations and has guided her ultimate goal of becoming a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW).

Her therapeutic orientation is grounded in person-centered and culturally responsive approaches, focusing on empathy, empowerment, and meeting clients exactly where they are. She is especially passionate about giving back to her community and hopes to utilize her future clinical skills to address mental health needs within underserved populations. Outside of her professional and academic pursuits, she enjoys traveling and trying new foods, which allows her to continue exploring different cultures and perspectives.

Pader grew up in Minnesota in a family of immigrant parents and is fluent in both Hmong and English. Her lived experience fuels a strong passion for providing compassionate, culturally responsive care to individuals and families. Through her personal journey, she has developed a deep appreciation for identity, resilience, family dynamics, and the unique barriers many communities face when navigating mental health and life transitions.

Grace grew up in a small town in Illinois before moving to St. Paul, Minnesota to pursue her college education. She has over two years of experience working in case management in Hennepin County and has also supported individuals through in-home services in Ramsey County.

Asha is a transracial adoptee from India who earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the College of St. Benedict. She has always valued honoring people’s journeys and stories. After nearly 20 years working in the healthcare field, Asha returned to school to pursue her passion for mental health and recently earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Kentucky.

As a therapist, Asha’s goal is to walk alongside individuals, offering support and honoring their stories as they navigate life’s challenges. She believes every client brings unique experiences to therapy and emphasizes meeting people where they are. Her approach is authentic, client-centered, trauma-informed, and tailored to each person’s needs and goals. Drawing from her personal story, Asha is deeply committed to working with and advocating for underserved BIPOC communities.

Outside of work, Asha enjoys spending time with her husband and cheering on their two sons at soccer games and their daughter at swim meets. In her free time, she volunteers as a board member for their local soccer club, loves reading, and enjoys connecting with friends.

Joanne is a single mother of three, a social worker, and a foster care survivor. Her advocacy in the child welfare system began as a teenager while in foster care, and she has continued to champion change ever since. Joanne recently earned her Master’s degree in Social Work and is committed to using both her education and lived experience to drive meaningful reform.

Her work focuses on family preservation, abolition, and liberation for all—core values that guide her efforts to create a more just and equitable child welfare system.

Clo (They/She) is a Minnesota native originally from rural southeastern Minnesota. Inspired by personal and family experiences with crisis, Clo pursued a career in social work and recently graduated from Winona State University with a Bachelor of Social Work, complemented by studies in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies and Child Advocacy.

For the past five years, Clo worked as a childcare provider, primarily supporting infants and their families, while completing their degree. Their experience also includes roles as a Direct Support Provider and a Social Work intern in the White Bear Lake school district. Clo holds an LSW (Licensed Social Worker) credential, which they use to honor, uplift, and advocate for those they serve.

In their role as Family Support Specialist at Roots, Clo aims to joyfully assist families in reaching their goals and strengthening connections with themselves, their loved ones, and their communities.

Hlee is a proud first-generation college graduate and mother of three boys. She grew up on the East Side of Saint Paul, Minnesota, and values the rich diversity of the Twin Cities community. Her family relocated to St. Paul when she was two years old from refugee camps in Thailand following the Vietnam War—a journey that shaped her deep commitment to creating safe spaces and empowering families to achieve the quality of life they deserve.

Hlee earned her Bachelor of Science in Family Social Science from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, and is bilingual in Hmong and English. For more than a decade, she has served the Twin Cities and surrounding areas through her work in social services and education. Her expertise includes person-centered skill building, facilitating intercultural competency dialogues, and helping families navigate county programs such as MFIP (Minnesota Family Investment Program) and waivered services.

Passionate about equity and inclusion, Hlee advocates for marginalized families facing barriers such as financial literacy, mental health support, employment, transportation, housing, and domestic abuse. She is dedicated to fostering intergenerational healing and building inclusive communities. Outside of work, Hlee enjoys rock collecting, listening to music, hiking with her family dog Jewel, creating an urban garden, and photographing nature. Fun fact: She loves transforming her backyard into a vibrant garden oasis.

Rachel is from Chicago Illinois, she’s a first-generation graduate. Rachel’s work is grounded in abolition, liberation, and the belief that all people deserve access to just and equitable systems of care. She is committed to serving underserved and BIPOC communities and strives to create healing-centered environments where individuals feel seen, valued, and empowered.

Her work is informed by both professional training and lived experience as she continues to champion life adversities.  Her approach is authentic, trauma-informed, strengths-based, and client-centered. This perspective allows Rachel to approach therapy with empathy, cultural humility, and an awareness of the broader social and systemic contexts that affect healing. Outside of her professional work, Rachel enjoys spending time with loved ones as well as immersing herself in reading the collected works of Toni Morrison. 

Judi has lived in Minnesota her entire life and loves spending time outdoors—especially in the fall when the trees burst into color. She is a proud mother of three, along with two cats and one dog. A passionate housing-first advocate, Judi believes that true healing begins only after basic needs are met. She is dedicated to helping clients secure permanent housing and access resources that support both their immediate needs and long-term goals.

Since 2015, Judi has worked in the substance use field, taking on a wide range of roles including CD Tech, Intake Specialist, Withdrawal Assistance Counselor, Harm Reduction Counselor, Lead Counselor, Clinical Supervisor, Admissions Counselor, and now serves as Treatment Director at Roots Wellness Center. She strongly advocates for harm reduction approaches and believes clients are the ultimate experts in their own healing journey.

Judi loves to travel and values the perspective gained from immersing herself in different cultures, which she believes fosters open-mindedness in all areas of life. She is deeply passionate about social justice and is committed to lifelong learning, particularly in decolonizing thought and social systems.

Danielle was born and raised in St. Paul and has worked in the healthcare industry for over 15 years, specializing in Certified Peer Recovery Support, intake coordination, and financial coordination. Her work has provided ongoing opportunities for both personal and professional growth.

Outside of work, Danielle enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, relaxing on the beach, hiking, walking, and searching for agates.

Lauren grew up in a small town in Georgia and later moved to Minneapolis to attend the University of Minnesota, where she earned her undergraduate degree in Child Psychology. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Integrative Behavioral Health at the University of Minnesota, with a focus on harm reduction. Lauren’s professional experience includes early childhood education, community and youth programming in Minneapolis, and social services, before becoming a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC).

As an LADC, Lauren prioritizes the voices of her clients by providing holistic, trauma-informed care for addiction and honoring their lived experiences. She embraces a strengths-based approach, walking alongside individuals as they build skills and celebrate emotional growth. Growing up in an underserved community fuels her commitment to increasing accessibility to services and creating a more equitable environment for all.

Outside of her work at Roots and her studies at the University, Lauren enjoys hiking up north, crocheting, and planning her next camping adventure.

Selena is a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) with nearly three years of experience in the field. She is deeply dedicated to helping individuals navigate addiction and recovery with compassion and authenticity. Having lived in communities surrounding the Twin Cities, Selena understands the diverse needs of the population and is committed to providing person-centered care.

As a proud Filipino-American, Selena incorporates a culturally sensitive approach into her counseling, drawing on her heritage and personal experiences to create a holistic and supportive environment. Her interest in holistic care began with her Filipino grandmother, who introduced her to the healing properties of coconut oil for stomach pain. This early exposure to traditional remedies sparked Selena’s passion for wellness practices that nurture the mind, body, and spirit.

Driven by a desire to empower others, Selena strives to support her clients on their healing journeys with empathy, respect, and unwavering commitment.

Cindy began her spiritual yoga journey seven years ago, though her path to healing started much earlier with her mother. Inspired by her mother and ancestors—who were deeply rooted in holistic healing and the natural energy of the earth—Cindy is passionate about reclaiming and sharing ancestral knowledge that has guided healing for thousands of years. Through yoga, she has created a space for personal healing and strives to offer that same space to others.

Cindy is a certified RYT-200 yoga instructor and will complete her RYT-500 certification by the end of June. She holds specialized certifications in yoga for anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image, trauma, and chemical dependency. Currently, Cindy is pursuing a graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of Wisconsin–Stout. In her personal life, she enjoys yoga, meditation, biking, swimming, paddleboarding, and connecting with nature.

A fun fact about Cindy: she has been biking year-round for nine years!

Jen Cabot is a Korean adoptee who was raised in Minneapolis and spent several years living in Boston before returning to Minnesota. She is a proud mother of three amazing children and two beloved black cats, and currently resides in St. Paul.

Jen believes that every soul has a purpose and unique gifts to offer in service to others, contributing to the collective healing of humanity. She views healing as a courageous act that creates a ripple effect, touching lives beyond our own. Guided by compassion and connection, Jen feels honored to walk alongside individuals on their unique healing journeys—whether they are navigating grief, anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, illness, or end-of-life transitions.

As an End-of-Life Doula, Reiki Practitioner, and Intuitive Healer, Jen has dedicated over a decade to offering empathy and holistic healing. Her work integrates pre-colonialist, trauma-informed, and somatic approaches, helping clients reconnect with their inner selves through energy work, intuition, breathwork, meditation, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and gentle guidance practices. She is trained in Jikiden Reiki Level II, end-of-life doula care, and various therapeutic modalities.

Jen is deeply committed to social justice and provides services to underrepresented and marginalized communities. She is a proud parent of two LGBTQIA+ children and serves as a board member for Q-munity, a nonprofit organization that creates safer spaces and resources for LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Outside of her professional work, nature is Jen’s sanctuary—she feels most at peace near water and enjoys hiking, longboarding, paddleboarding, and biking. Her adventurous spirit draws her to travel, music, concerts, yoga, and exploring new foods. She also loves dancing and spending meaningful time with loved ones.

Alex Rick, first of his name, has lived many lives. Growing up on the mean streets of Coon Rapids, MN, Alex attended the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, earning his Masters in Education and Secondary English Teaching License. He subsequently earned his Special Education teaching licenses in Emotional/Behavioral & Learning Disorders. Alex worked with young adults who struggled with meeting their behavioral needs in alternative educational settings for 6 years before deciding to pursue a career in counseling. Alex is a graduate of the Masters of Integrative Behavioral Health program at the University of Minnesota. As a fellow member of the recovery environment, Alex is passionate and invested in helping individuals overcome their personal struggles to discover their unique strengths. Alex approaches support through a community-minded, strengths-based approach, to help clients realize the integral role they play in their own lives and the lives of their communities.

In his free time, Alex enjoys riding his motorcycle, pursuing new artistic ventures, such as playing guitar, woodworking, and metalworking. reading, traveling, and hanging out with his dog, Luther.

Eric is a multilingual BIPOC professional with ethno-cultural roots in Europe, West Africa, and Indigenous Brazil. He completed his master’s degree in Counseling Psychology at St. Mary’s University and is trained in EMDR.

Eric observes socio-political-historical systems and influences on mental health. He has a strong interest in post-modern decolonial approaches to therapy including multicultural, narrative, and solution-focused modalities. With experience as a musician and former music teacher with a lifelong passion for music, he integrates rhythm, movement, and creative expression into his therapeutic practice.

As a late-discovery donor-conceived person (DCP), Eric is actively involved in DCP advocacy and is committed to building solidarity and expanding healing within the growing DNA surprises community.

Pader grew up in Minnesota in a family of immigrant parents and is fluent in both Hmong and English. Her lived experience fuels a strong passion for providing compassionate, culturally responsive care to individuals and families. Through her personal journey, she has developed a deep appreciation for identity, resilience, family dynamics, and the unique barriers many communities face when navigating mental health and life transitions.

Nada grew up in Minneapolis and is experienced in working with individuals from diverse backgrounds. She has spent 18 years providing substance use disorder counseling as a licensed alcohol and drug counselor, supporting clients across a variety of treatment settings and program models.

Gabrielle is a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with nearly six years of experience in the substance use and mental health field. She completed her bachelor’s in Alcohol and Drug Studies and master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Minnesota State University, Mankato. She has experience serving LGBTQ+ and BIPOC individuals in underserved communities in rural southern MN in intensive outpatient and outpatient settings. She strives to meet each person with authenticity, curiosity, and compassion, and is committed to walking alongside clients as they move toward greater self-understanding and meaningful change.

As a queer person, she brings both professional training and lived experience into the therapeutic space. She works through a queer, intersectional and culturally rooted lens and is passionate about creating a space where clients feel genuinely seen, affirmed, and respected in all parts of who they are. As someone who came into a deeper understanding of her own cultural background later in life, she holds a strong appreciation for identity exploration and the process of reconnecting with culture. She incorporates somatic-based, harm-reduction and person-centered approaches and aims to co-create a space with clients that fosters connection, centers their voice, and feels equitable, collaborative, and empowering. 

In her free time, she enjoys reading, taking her two golden retrievers, Marsh and Mello for long walks with her wife, and eating any and all pasta.

Ta Porar is a dedicated social worker with a strong personal and professional commitment to supporting vulnerable and underserved communities. Born and raised in a refugee camp in Thailand, Ta immigrated to the United States at the age of nine. Her lived experience has given her a deep understanding of the challenges newcomers face and inspired her to serve those navigating similar journeys.

Ta earned her Bachelor of Social Work degree from Metropolitan State University in 2022 and brings over five years of experience working directly with refugees and immigrants. She began her career as a case aide, supporting newly arrived families through the resettlement process, and later served as an Intensive Health Case Manager for ORR-eligible clients, coordinating complex care and support services for two years.

In addition to her professional expertise, Ta speaks four languages. Outside of work, she enjoys staying active and believes exercise is essential for both physical and mental well-being.

Kailah grew up in Vermont and New Hampshire before moving to San Diego after earning her undergraduate degree in Sociology. Four years ago, she relocated to Minnesota, where she discovered her passion for creating safe, supportive spaces for healing and growth. Kailah is especially drawn to work that emphasizes diversity, connection, and honoring each person’s unique journey.

She holds a master’s degree in Sociology with an educational emphasis, providing her with a deep understanding of how social and systemic factors influence mental health. Her professional background spans hospitality, residential care, and community engagement, equipping her with strong skills in cross-cultural understanding, empathy, and trauma-informed support. Kailah is passionate about harm reduction, equity, and helping individuals feel seen, heard, and valued.

Outside of work, Kailah finds grounding through yoga, meditation, and art—creative outlets she believes can be deeply therapeutic. Fun fact: She runs a small art business that focuses on upcycling and transforming reclaimed materials into one-of-a-kind pieces that celebrate creativity and sustainability.

Mo Turner is originally from Chicago, Illinois, and is currently in the final year of undergraduate studies, pursuing a degree in Pre-Law with a concentration in Criminal Justice. Throughout Mo’s academic journey, they have remained committed to both professional and personal growth, striving to create positive change within their community.

Mo’s leadership and dedication to service have been recognized through the prestigious Martin Luther King Jr. Student Leadership Award. In addition, Mo has organized and hosted holiday toy drives aimed at supporting those in need while fostering stronger connections within their newly found community in Minnesota.

As a Pretrial Navigator, Mo is excited to bring a passion for service and advocacy to the team. They consider it an honor to help individuals navigate the pretrial process and are eager to address community needs through this role.

Mo’s personal philosophy centers on empowering others to find their voice, especially when they feel unseen or unheard. Believing that every individual deserves the opportunity to be heard and supported during challenging times, Mo looks forward to applying this mindset at Roots and collaborating with colleagues to make a meaningful difference.

I was born in Guadalajara Mexico and immigrated to the US in the 90s and have lived in Minneapolis since 1997. My Professional background is in technology sales and project management.

I really enjoy making new relationships and working towards closing gaps in everyday life with the technology we have available.

Mo Turner is originally from Chicago, Illinois, and is currently in the final year of undergraduate studies, pursuing a degree in Pre-Law with a concentration in Criminal Justice. Throughout Mo’s academic journey, they have remained committed to both professional and personal growth, striving to create positive change within their community.

Mo’s leadership and dedication to service have been recognized through the prestigious Martin Luther King Jr. Student Leadership Award. In addition, Mo has organized and hosted holiday toy drives aimed at supporting those in need while fostering stronger connections within their newly found community in Minnesota.

As a Pretrial Navigator, Mo is excited to bring a passion for service and advocacy to the team. They consider it an honor to help individuals navigate the pretrial process and are eager to address community needs through this role.

Mo’s personal philosophy centers on empowering others to find their voice, especially when they feel unseen or unheard. Believing that every individual deserves the opportunity to be heard and supported during challenging times, Mo looks forward to applying this mindset at Roots and collaborating with colleagues to make a meaningful difference.

Nicole is a native of Minnesota. Nicole has been working in the mental health field for over 15 years.

Nicole works with adults and provides supportive services focused on increasing independence and self-confidence for all.

Courtney has been a valued member of Roots Wellness Center for six years, serving as a Mental Health Practitioner and providing home- and community-based services to individuals living with mental illness. In addition to her work at RWC, Courtney brings extensive experience as a Direct Support Professional in home health and group home settings, where she delivered quality care to clients with a wide range of mental and physical health needs.

Courtney finds great fulfillment in supporting her clients and remains committed to expanding her knowledge in the mental health field. She continues to provide professional services throughout the north metro and greater Twin Cities area.

Kailah grew up in Vermont and New Hampshire before moving to San Diego after earning her undergraduate degree in Sociology. Four years ago, she relocated to Minnesota, where she discovered her passion for creating safe, supportive spaces for healing and growth. Kailah is especially drawn to work that emphasizes diversity, connection, and honoring each person’s unique journey.

She holds a master’s degree in Sociology with an educational emphasis, providing her with a deep understanding of how social and systemic factors influence mental health. Her professional background spans hospitality, residential care, and community engagement, equipping her with strong skills in cross-cultural understanding, empathy, and trauma-informed support. Kailah is passionate about harm reduction, equity, and helping individuals feel seen, heard, and valued.

Outside of work, Kailah finds grounding through yoga, meditation, and art—creative outlets she believes can be deeply therapeutic. Fun fact: She runs a small art business that focuses on upcycling and transforming reclaimed materials into one-of-a-kind pieces that celebrate creativity and sustainability.

Sarah VanBlarcom was born in Portugal and raised in Brazil. Her life journey is rooted in resilience, transformation, and a deep commitment to healing. She left a controlling religious environment at 18 with her two-month-old son and rebuilt her life in Minnesota, where she found stability and community.

Sarah brings over 20 years of experience working with people, first in daycare settings, then as a hairstylist, roles that allowed her to build trust, listen deeply, and support others through everyday challenges. She also spent two years working as a parent mentor, supporting families in strengthening relationships, building parenting skills, and navigating complex systems. In addition, she has volunteered at her local recreation center, mentoring teens in creative spaces and encouraging self-expression.

Guided by a lifelong curiosity about human behavior and healing, Sarah integrates creativity, art, and connection to nature into her approach. Her work is grounded in the belief that healing is possible for everyone, and she is passionate about creating supportive spaces where individuals and families can feel seen, understood, and empowered.

Sarah is fluent in Portuguese (falo português), which allows her to connect with and support a broader range of community members.

Kristina was born and raised in South Saint Paul, Minnesota. She brings 25 years of experience in the medical field, specializing in direct patient care. Her background includes extensive work in memory care and hospice, providing compassionate end‑of‑life support.

Sam is originally from Washington, DC, and has lived in the Twin Cities for the past five years. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Macalester College in 2025. Her professional background is in childcare, where she worked closely with children and families to support daily routines, learning, and emotional well-being.