Social Work
Kaylee Larson '19 & '21
Employer
Private practice therapist and adjunct professor
LinkedIn Profile
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaylee-larson-0b944b125?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios
1. Tell us about your journey since graduation.
Immediately after graduating from GVSU's MSW program in 2021, I
accepted a position at Trinity Health Muskegon ER as a master's-level
ER clinician. My primary role was working with individuals
experiencing psychiatric and social crises, assessing their level of
care, and coordinating care and resources. I also assisted with social
services, including nursing home placement, addiction services, and
trauma support. One year later, I began my journey in private practice
as a therapist. In 2022, I completed my 4,000 supervised hours, passed
my licensing board exam, and became fully licensed. After four years
at Trinity Health Muskegon, my family relocated to mid-Michigan, where
I built my private practice caseload and accepted a position as an
adjunct professor at Lansing Community College in the Human Services Department.
2. Share a favorite Grand Valley memory.
My favorite memory at GVSU, outside of my education, was the
lifelong friends I made. I have been friends with the people I met at
GVSU for 10 years, and they're my biggest support system!
3. What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
"It doesn't have to be forever, but it can be." When I
was a senior at GVSU, I didn't know what my path was going to be, and
someone told me that whatever I chose "doesn't have to be
forever, but it can be." It meant that if I chose something and
it wasn't the right fit, I could always pivot and choose a new path,
but that path might also turn out to be the perfect fit. I may have
changed jobs throughout my career, but I couldn't imagine not being a
social worker.
4. List three words you would use to describe your Grand
Valley experience.
Supportive, intentional, fun
5. What difference would you like to make in the world?
"I found the world to be woefully lacking in safe spaces, so
I became one." I want to make people feel safe and connected. Our
world has moved so far away from genuine connection and community that
I want to be a safe space for others and help people feel safe within
their communities and villages by bringing back intentional connection
and relationships.
April 2026
Interest Area(s)
Psychology, Social Work
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