Editor’s note: This post is part of a series, Grow Your Own Way, which highlights the career paths of HopeStarters.
Nick’s RACSB journey started years before he came to the agency. As a police dispatcher, Nick found himself handling crisis calls and yearned to do more for people beyond brief telephone interactions. So, he pursued a degree in professional counseling and reached out to RACSB to explore internship opportunities.
That temporary internship proved to be transformative. He discovered that RACSB was a perfect fit for his aspirations while his mentors recognized that his unique background in law enforcement brought a valuable perspective to counseling.
Professional Development
Nick’s professional journey at RACSB began at District 21 Probation and Parole, where he assisted with substance abuse treatment. During this time, he connected with a mentor who became instrumental in helping him accumulate the necessary hours for licensure and ultimately obtaining his licensed professional counselor credentials.
Though he found this work fulfilling, Nick wanted to expand his horizons while remaining with RACSB. He valued the organization’s mission of serving community members who couldn’t afford private treatment and wanted to continue contributing to this important work.
Finding His Professional Home
Nick’s search for new challenges within RACSB led him to the Assertive Community Treatment team. ACT serves individuals who require more intensive services than traditional outpatient care can provide and who face challenges engaging in treatment. When a team lead position opened with ACT, Nick found what he describes as his professional “home.”
At ACT, Nick discovered a supportive environment that transcended typical workplace relationships. His colleagues were always ready to assist during difficult times, creating an atmosphere that “felt more like a family than co-workers.” Equally important, he found leadership that consistently supported and promoted his professional goals.
Giving Back Through Mentorship
Recently, Nick reached a significant personal milestone by registering with the Board of Counseling as a supervisor for LPC licensure. This achievement reflects his desire to “pay it forward” and honor those who took chances on him throughout his professional development.
This commitment to mentorship exemplifies Nick’s dedication to supporting others on their professional journeys, just as he was supported. It represents the culmination of a personal goal he set long ago and his continued professional growth at RACSB.
Continued Growth and Impact
What Nick values most about his experience at RACSB is the organization’s support for his ongoing professional development. He appreciates that his work remains dynamic and engaging—”never a dull moment,” as he puts it. RACSB has provided him with opportunities to grow professionally while making meaningful connections with both colleagues and clients.
Nick reflects that without RACSB, he would not have been able to share in the journeys of others and meet remarkable individuals who share his passion for supporting people through challenging times. His story illustrates how RACSB not only serves the community but also nurtures the growth and development of the professionals who provide that service.