Hello - my name is LuAnn! Full disclosure - I am a wounded healer, meaning have lived with a lifetime of mental health struggles,...and I am a therapist and social worker. I believe my lived experience makes me a better helper and my work makes me a better human. At this point, I am semi-retired but still see a few clients because I love the work. I have always felt like an imposter amongst my co-workers and colleagues because I share the same problems as those I help. I am over it, but I still have to mask - and I need to be authentic. My belief is that unless the helpers are open and honest about their conditions the stigma will never end. I have shared my story of mental health recovery with selecte people I have worked with over the years - when I thought it might help - without making it about me. I saw/see them as peers, not just clients. For transparency, my specific mental health conditions are AuDHD - overlapping ADHD (combined type) and Autism, garden variety major depression with seasonal fluctuations, generalized anxiety, CPTSD (complex trauma), insomnia and circadian rhythm disturbance. If I had to rate them, I would say by far ADHD is the most difficult for me to manage - sleep disturbance is close behind. ADHD affects everything, including sleep! I am here because I think groups are the most effective form of treatment. And, I need to be a peer - in a group - at Sharewell. One very cool thing - we have a sanctuary for special needs cats! Though most need a bit of medical care, it only takes about 5 minutes for each kitty in the morning and at bedtime. Otherwise, they are just normal cats. They offer lots of emotional support - obviously;-) We also have a Great Dane, Lincoln and a Lab/Chow/Sharpei/Herding Dog mix, Darcy. They are very affectionate - kinda clingy to be honest - but I love them all!