For Jen McCurdy, helping others has always been a calling. The lead therapist at Lumen Wellness & Counseling, McCurdy sometimes talks with clients at Chesterfield Park to help learn from their experiences. “I try to remember that everyone is dealing with something and to be a force of presence and peace,” she says In addition to serving Chesterfield, Lumen has expanded to Scottsdale, Arizona. “We hope to continue to grow and serve our clients,” says McCurdy.
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Organization: Lumen Wellness & Counseling
Title: Lead Therapist and Manager
Hometown: St. Louis
Education: M.Ed. in Counseling, UMSL (2012); B.A. in Graphic Design, Maryville University (2000)
Interests / Hobbies: Reading, photography, stargazing, travel
What motivated you to get involved in this work/community/activity? I think I’ve always been a helper. Becoming a counselor helped me put that into action.
What values or principles guide how you show up in this role/community? If I can help just one person feel a little bit better, then my mission feels complete. The world feels so noisy, especially now. I try to remember that everyone is dealing with something, and to be a force of presence and peace whether it’s with a client or within our community as a whole.
What’s the most enjoyable aspect? I absolutely love walking out into our lobby and finding clients enjoying a cup of tea and snack before our sessions begin. Some come a half hour before just to journal and rest. Knowing that we have that space for others feels special.
Can you briefly share a few standout memories? I enjoy holding an occasional session in Chesterfield Park, where we walk and talk.
Can you share an insight about this role that most people don’t know? I learn so much from my clients. Each day I come away with new insights, books to read, and restaurants to try in the area.
What’s one key piece of advice you’ve embraced? Trust the process. I work on this every day in my own life and share this with others. And I remind them it’s not always easy.
What’s the greatest challenge? I’m a mom, and sometimes find the work-life balance challenging. Even though my boys are in high school and college, I still feel the “mom-guilt” at times. Reminding myself that I don’t need to be everywhere all at once is sometimes a challenge.
Where do you find inspiration? My people! I work with a fabulous group of women, and there is always someone willing to listen or laugh with, or even cry. I also love listening to podcasts, reading, and just being outside in the evenings.
What are your future plans or ambitions? At Lumen, we’re loving being a part of Chesterfield, but also recently expanded to Scottsdale, Arizona. We hope to continue to grow and serve our clients.
