Meet Jessie, Brave Grand Rapids Counselor and Comedy Queen

Meet our newest Brave counselor! A native of Troy, Michigan, Jessie Kopmeyer specializes in helping clients with mood and anxiety disorders and is a graduate of the University of Michigan. We sat down with Jessie to dig a little deeper into what you’ll experience when you work with her at Brave!

WHAT ARE SOME AREAS THAT INTEREST YOU WITHIN THE WORK YOU DO? 

While I find all aspects of the human experience fascinating, I have a special interest in working with individuals who experience anxiety, as well as those who struggle with compulsive overeating. I also have a passion for promoting the well-being and mental health needs of women throughout the reproductive life cycle, including the pregnancy and postpartum period.  

WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING THING ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? 

I am frequently inspired by the people I work with-by their openness about their thoughts and fears. I consider it an honor to be let into another person’s world, and to be able to provide support and encouragement during life’s challenges. 

WHAT DOES SELF-CARE MEAN TO YOU? HOW DO YOU PRACTICE THIS IN YOUR OWN LIFE? 

Self-care is taking time for yourself, in ways that leaves you feeling happy, rested, or cared for. It is not an occasional “treat” that we provide for ourselves. Rather, it is a daily routine where we notice and attend to our needs. I think it is important to note that this looks different for everyone! For me, practicing self-care looks like prioritizing my cup of coffee each morning, and listening to music/podcasts when I drive. Whatever it is, make space for it daily!

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU TO BE BRAVE?

I think bravery can be physical, mental, or emotional, and usually involves taking a risk or stepping out of our comfort zone. I do not believe that bravery is something that we wake up one day having or not having, but rather a muscle we strengthen over time. I think everyone has their own definition of what it means to be brave, and exploring this can be an important part of counseling.   

WHAT HAS BEING A COUNSELOR TAUGHT YOU?

The power of listening, and the importance of appreciating the small things. 

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU'VE EVER BEEN GIVEN? 

Be completely engaged with what you are doing in the here and now, as this is all you can control. This principle has become an important part of my self-talk.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO OUTSIDE OF YOUR CAREER? 

I love to read, play cards (euchre specifically) and have recently gotten into baking because of The Great British Bake Off (it’s a work in progress). I’m also a big fan of stand-up comedy/improv and love going to shows when I can!

IF YOU COULD TRAVEL ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD WHERE WOULD IT BE AND WHY? 

Greece! It has been on my bucket list for a long time. I love Greek food and am also fascinated by Greek history. Going on a historical/archaeological based tour would be a dream! 

WHAT IS AN INTERESTING FACT ABOUT YOU? 

My birthday is on April Fool’s Day, and I used to get pranked a lot as a kid! Hoping that tradition does not make a comeback…

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE CONSIDERING COUNSELING? 

Take the risk! Sometimes making the initial call can be the first step in addressing anxiety, advocating for your needs, or moving closer to your life aims. I also would encourage you to keep an open mind about the process and the possibility of change. As Ted Lasso would say, ‘Be curious, not judgmental.” 

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