Brooklynn Dease, NCC, LCMHC-A

The adults in Brooklynn’s life, including teachers, often described her as a “great kid, but talks too much.” She was the student who rarely got in trouble—unless it was for excessive talking—earned good grades, and was kind to everyone. No one would have suspected the harsh reality of her home life.

As a teenager, the school counselor’s office became Brooklynn’s safe space. For the first time, she had someone who listened to everything she wasn’t saying to anyone else. She had always paid close attention to the small details in others, but it wasn’t until she met her counselor that she felt truly seen. That experience inspired her to pursue a career helping others.

Brooklynn began college as a first-generation student majoring in psychology but ultimately switched her major to middle grades education. During her first year of teaching, she realized she enjoyed connecting with her students more than grading their papers. She formed a close relationship with the school counselor she worked alongside, who encouraged her to pursue a Master's in School Counseling.

In 2020, Brooklynn graduated from UNC Charlotte and discovered a deep love for her role as a middle school counselor. She supported countless students as they navigated anxiety, depression, self-harm, and future planning. She sat beside them during difficult conversations with parents or peers and provided a safe, nonjudgmental space—especially for LGBTQ+ students in a small, rural town. She made sure they felt seen, accepted, and understood.

However, the long-lasting effects of COVID-19 changed the school system, and Brooklynn’s role shifted. Instead of spending most of her time in counseling sessions, she found herself covering classrooms due to staff shortages. She missed connecting with students in the way she once had. During her final year as a school counselor, she served as co-chair of the county’s Suicide Prevention Team and collaborated with other professionals to revise the suicide protocol. She created county-wide presentations to provide psychoeducation to students and faculty about mental health.

As much as Brooklynn valued her time in the school system, she knew it was time to return to what she loved most: talking to people. Now a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA), she has had the privilege of walking alongside teens, adults, children, and families as they heal from trauma, suicidal ideation, and more. Along the way, she discovered a passion for working with neurodivergent individuals—later learning that she herself is neurodivergent.

Growing up, all Brooklynn wanted was to be heard, to be seen, and to feel important. Every client who enters her office or joins a telehealth session receives the same unconditional positive regard that her younger self so deeply needed. Brooklynn believes her clients are the experts of their own experiences, and her role is to guide them on their journey.