Meet Jess, Brave Grand Rapids Art Therapist and Champion Coffee Roaster

We’re so excited about our newest therapist. A graduate of both Grand Valley State University and Mount Mary University, Jess Kimmel uses art in a therapeutic setting to encourage openness and introspection.  We sat down with Jess to talk about her work and what she’ll bring to Brave!

What are some areas that interest you within the work you do?

I’m analytical by nature, and a patient listener. I genuinely enjoy hearing someone’s history, and learning their habits and intentions. I take care to consider someone’s particular worldview… we’re molded so profoundly by our experiences. I’m interested in the part of my work that allows me to develop deep relationships with others, and strengthens my own empathy and awareness. 

What is the most rewarding thing about what you do?

I guide folks to think critically about their behavior, demonstrate proactivity or restraint, and explore their identities. Together we examine the impact of their social environment, family of origin, or community.

But watching a client begin to process these things independently is incredibly rewarding. As well as hearing firsthand how they’re putting their insights into practice.

What does self-care mean to you? How do you practice this in your own life?

Self-care… self-care is a bit of a pop psychology term these days. But being gentle with ourselves is so important. We exhibit “love languages” in our relationships. We also need to learn our preferences around giving and accepting self love.

I get lost when I neglect self-care or put myself last… I drown. I’m incredibly fortunate to have 15+ year friendships. Solid ones. I practice self-care when I’m laughing and getting honest with them. I’m also one of those odd people that get pleasure from domestic tasks like cleaning.

What does it mean to be brave?

Bravery is doing what’s needed of us when we feel unwilling. Brave acts aren’t always grand ones- I’d argue they’re ordinary, more often than not. And unseen. Bravery is pursuing something we perceive as big, for whatever reason. Doing so necessitates faith that we can succeed. (Even if that’s difficult for us to acknowledge at the time.)

What has being a counselor taught you? 

Sit still and listen. I think pauses in conversation terrify most people. So we’re quick to fill them with stuff that feels a little rushed or empty. We’re wise to become comfortable in quiet moments- there’s so much to learn there.

What is the best advice you’ve ever been given? 

“Stay within your own experience… Just because you share X (traumatic event, diagnosis, family dynamic) with someone, don’t assume you understand what it was/is like for them.”

What do you like to do outside of your career?

I am passionate about coffee… I suppose this applies both in and outside of the therapy room. But I like to experiment with brew methods, tech, and roasts at home. 

And art provides a great deal of meaning in my life… writing, painting, and sketching help me feel the most like “myself.” Good music and attending live shows feed me in that way, too. (I’m always taking recommendations.)

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

Japan? Or France? Two very different places, but I’d be grateful to sink into either’s culture. Learn the lifestyle, discover the color palettes, taste the coffee.

What is an interesting fact about you? 

I could spend hours in the grocery store… I’m lulled into a sense of security when I’m grocery shopping. I’ll drive a considerable distance to visit a newly opened chain, specialty market, etc. I acknowledge how uninteresting this sounds and stand by it anyway.

What advice would you give to someone considering counseling?

Therapy isn’t designed to be confining- it’s your support tool. And it evolves as your needs evolve. Some folks utilize a counselor for several months to work through an issue or transition. Other folks stay a while to maintain their mental health recovery. Or because they benefit from speaking with an objective third party, or feeling heard. Either way, I’d advise an undecided someone not to be spooked by the commitment. (Perhaps we should unpack that in session?)

To speak with Jess or one of our other licensed counselors, click the link below.