Cedar Rapids Office

Laney has lived in Newton, Iowa her whole life. She enjoys spending time with her animals and her husband, being outside/hiking, or going to the lake.

Laney’s favorite part about BHIS is the children she has the privilege of working with because they are all special and bright and make her life sweeter.

April grew up on a farm in southeast Iowa where she was one of five children. Her parents placed an importance on education; she obtained her Masters in Human Services with a focus on children and families.

April and her husband have three kids together and enjoy almost anything outdoors. In their spare time you will often find them swimming, exploring new areas, or hiking.

April believes BHIS is an amazing program. She is able to assist youth in learning new skills that allow them to meet their goals. Her favorite part of BHIS is being a support for not only the child but the entire family unit.

My name is Blair Farris. I am from Washington, IA. I enjoy hanging out with my friends and family. I have many pets in which I love. We play a lot of fetch. My family and I enjoy going camping and exploring the outdoors. My favorite place to be is at the beach. However, residing in Iowa, that isn’t possible. Therefore, I work with what we have. I enjoy floating with friends and being out in the water and soaking up the sun. I have my bachelor's in psychology and sociology. My goal is to become a child therapist, as I work on completing my program with a Masters in Social Work. I have a passion for helping children and families.

My experience includes working with children and families who have experienced the welfare system. I also have experience working with adults with severe mental health and intellectual disabilities. I am familiar with many resources in the area to help serve clients and to help meet their needs and goals. With the professional and personal experience I have encountered, I believe I have the right tools, knowledge, and a lot of love to support the client population being served by Grace C. Mae Advocate Center. 

Deb grew up in a small town in Illinois. She is a mother of five children and a grandmother of six. Deb has a good sense of humor and is a positive person. Deb enjoys family time, traveling, and outside fun. As a life dream of being a therapist, Deb is fulfilling her passion. She plans to continue her education through Walden University to receive a Master of Social Work degree.

Deb was a foster parent for several years and has parented abused, neglected, and special needs children. She knows many of the challenges in obtaining the right resources for some children and adolescents. Deb believes everyone has their own unique situation and therefore no two treatments will look alike. Deb loves seeing her clients learn new skills and make positive changes.

Lisa grew up in Southeast Iowa and was the last of eight children. She left her roots to attend college at the University of Northern Iowa. Lisa is a mother of four children. She has three boys and one girl. Lisa enjoys spending time with her family and friends along with singing and doing music with her husband.

Lisa has a long history working with the BHIS program and believes it is a wonderful support program for children and families. She enjoys teaching new skills and practicing alternative coping styles for our ever-changing world that we live in. Lisa believes each and everyone of her clients is unique and feels passionate about hearing their story and developing a supportive relationship.

Leah was born and raised in Washington, IA. She enjoys spending time with friends, camping, shopping, and cuddling with her yellow lab. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from the University of Iowa and is currently working toward her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Leah has a passion for making a difference in the lives of the people around her and he favorite part of BHIS is making meaningful connections with and seeing success from her clients.

Cortney is a man of humility, faith, and redemption. Born and raised in New Jersey, Cortney arrived in Iowa in 2011. He comes with a degree in Criminal Justice/Sociology to serve the community with charity and good deeds. Having respect for truth, all living things, sports, and various arts, he dedicates his time to providing a light to all around him.

Cortney's purpose is to provide testimony to those who observe strong conviction in the circles of their life. He believes that it is where the heart is broken that we are to collect the pieces that create a more resilient individual for the future in society today.