Stephanie Bergman
Biography
When I reflect on my life and experiences, I鈥檓 not at all surprised to find myself in the role I鈥檓 in today. So many pivotal moments in my journey have been shaped by learning to build healthy relationships, growing under the guidance of trusted mentors, and facing personal challenges that deepened my resilience and dependence on God (and my use of healthy coping skills). Through those experiences, I鈥檝e had the privilege of engaging鈥攁s the CCW mission so beautifully puts it 鈥 鈥渨holeheartedly in God鈥檚 work of renewal in the world鈥 in ways that continue to inspire and stretch me.
It feels only natural that this path has led me into a helping profession like counseling. I鈥檓 deeply energized by the opportunity to walk alongside students, just as others have done for me. Supporting college students as they grow, heal, and step more fully into the life and work God has called them to鈥攆or the sake of His kingdom 鈥 is work I feel honored to do.
Living a full, joyful life is also something I deeply value. Outside of work, I love spending time with my husband and our two kind, funny, and brave sons. I鈥檓 rarely without a good book (or seven) in my hand or my to-be-read pile, and I love being outdoors鈥攖aking walks, biking, playing with my kids, or heading out on a summer camping trip. I find deep meaning in investing in the life of the local church, and I'll never turn down a good Sunday afternoon nap, a spontaneous trip to the ice cream shop, or a chance to share coffee and conversation with a friend. If you ever see me driving up the Beltline, you're likely to find me laughing out loud thanks to whatever podcast I have playing at the moment.
Education
BS, Kuyper College, Youth Ministry & Bible/Theology, 2010
MA, Spring Arbor University, Counseling, 2014
Professional Experience
I began my undergraduate studies thinking I had a clear idea of what I believed God had planned for my career. It didn鈥檛 take long to realize that those years were being used in a much deeper, more formative way 鈥 preparing me for a career path I never could have expected. While I did complete my degree in Youth Ministry, what I truly walked away with was a deep passion for higher education and the life-shaping transformation that takes place during the college years.
Through conversations with trusted mentors and a growing awareness of my own gifts, I returned to the classroom, completing my Master's degree in Counseling while continuing to work in various roles on college campuses, including roles in student life, admissions, marketing, and student support. I completed my graduate internship in a college counseling and career services environment and have been counseling college students and young adults in private practice since 2014. This path has allowed me to blend my love for student development in higher education with a passion for holistic mental health care for students. I鈥檓 grateful that God's guiding hand led me to the work and community at 茄子视频 and the Center for Counseling and Wellness 鈥 work (and people) that energize and inspire me every day.