Starting Strong
Gary began in a bachelor’s-level role as Family Support Specialist, working directly with children and families. He supported therapists and mentored kids one-on-one in their communities, helping them build skills like communication, problem-solving, and coping strategies.
“It was very hands-on,” Gary says. “You take what you learn from a psychology degree and apply it in real life.”
At the time, he was still exploring whether becoming a therapist was the right long-term path. That experience gave him clarity.
“Once I started working with kids—especially teens—I realized how much I enjoyed it.”
“It was very hands-on,” Gary says. “You take what you learn from a psychology degree and apply it in real life.”
At the time, he was still exploring whether becoming a therapist was the right long-term path. That experience gave him clarity.
“Once I started working with kids—especially teens—I realized how much I enjoyed it.”
Growing His Career
After several years, Gary decided to pursue his master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling to expand his opportunities and achieve greater independence.
And Sevita supported him every step of the way.
“I was able to complete my internship here, which made a huge difference,” he says. “My supervisors were incredibly helpful—coordinating with my school and guiding me through the process.”
That seamless transition allowed Gary to continue building his experience while advancing his career.
After several years, Gary decided to pursue his master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling to expand his opportunities and achieve greater independence.
And Sevita supported him every step of the way.
“I was able to complete my internship here, which made a huge difference,” he says. “My supervisors were incredibly helpful—coordinating with my school and guiding me through the process.”
That seamless transition allowed Gary to continue building his experience while advancing his career.
A Culture That Supports You
For Gary, one of the biggest reasons he’s stayed with Sevita is the people.
“The environment is very supportive,” he says. “My supervisors and coworkers are always willing to help.”
From day one, he had access to mentorship and guidance, including a peer mentor who helped him navigate systems, documentation, and real-life scenarios. That support continues today—not just from leadership, but across the team.
“Everyone brings different strengths,” Gary explains. “We share ideas, ask each other questions, and learn from each other. It’s a very collaborative environment. And you're not expected to figure everything out on your own. Your team is there to help you succeed."
For Gary, one of the biggest reasons he’s stayed with Sevita is the people.
“The environment is very supportive,” he says. “My supervisors and coworkers are always willing to help.”
From day one, he had access to mentorship and guidance, including a peer mentor who helped him navigate systems, documentation, and real-life scenarios. That support continues today—not just from leadership, but across the team.
“Everyone brings different strengths,” Gary explains. “We share ideas, ask each other questions, and learn from each other. It’s a very collaborative environment. And you're not expected to figure everything out on your own. Your team is there to help you succeed."
Making a Meaningful Impact
What keeps Gary motivated is the impact he makes with the individuals and families he serves.
“I remember the first time a client told me they tried something I suggested and it actually helped,” he says. “That moment really stayed with me.”
For Gary, those moments—when someone feels heard, supported, and able to move forward—are what the work is all about.
“Helping people shift their perspective or manage challenges in a healthier way—that’s what makes this meaningful.”
What keeps Gary motivated is the impact he makes with the individuals and families he serves.
“I remember the first time a client told me they tried something I suggested and it actually helped,” he says. “That moment really stayed with me.”
For Gary, those moments—when someone feels heard, supported, and able to move forward—are what the work is all about.
“Helping people shift their perspective or manage challenges in a healthier way—that’s what makes this meaningful.”
For him, a 'career well lived" comes down to impact." It's about those moments where you've helped created positive change," he says. "When you can look back and see the difference you've made--that's what really matters."