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Meet Crystal
Lead Parent Support Specialist at A Common Voice
About Crystal
I am drawn to people and their stories. As a parent and family support professional, I have seen firsthand how powerful it can be to show up for one another during life’s challenging moments. This work is more than a career for me, it is an opportunity to make a positive impact in my community and support families as they navigate the joys, complexities, and realities of everyday life. I believe meaningful relationships have the power to create lasting change, and I feel honored to be part of that journey with families.
My Areas of Support/Expertise
My experience includes parent peer support, family advocacy, group facilitation, strengths-based family support, resource navigation, and helping families understand and access behavioral health and community systems. I enjoy helping parents navigate services, identify resources, build confidence, and find practical tools that support their family’s goals and needs.
My Approach / Philosophy to Supporting Parents:
I believe parents are the experts on their own families. My role is not to tell you what to do, but to listen, learn, and work alongside you as we explore possibilities and identify what works best for your unique situation. I strive to create a calm, welcoming space where parents feel comfortable sharing openly and know they will be met with respect and without judgment.
My Professional Experience / Background
My passion for supporting families is rooted in both lived experience and professional practice. As a parent of three adult children, I have navigated many of life’s challenges, including single parenting, grief, and supporting a child with unique behavioral health needs. Those experiences gave me firsthand insight into the complexities families often face and the importance of having compassionate support along the way.
After experiencing the impact that peer support can have in the lives of families, I became a Washington State Certified Peer Counselor and Certified Family Peer Support Specialist. I worked within the WISe program, partnering with parents as they navigated behavioral health systems, school challenges, family stress, and the day-to-day realities of caring for children with behavioral health needs.
Throughout my career, I have been passionate about helping people feel heard, understood, and empowered. In addition to my work in family support, I bring many years of leadership and management experience, which has strengthened my ability to build relationships, support teams, and advocate for meaningful, family-centered services.
Today, as a Lead Peer Support Specialist with A Common Voice, I am committed to walking alongside families, strengthening parent voice, and helping caregivers recognize the resilience, wisdom, and strengths they already possess.
What Parents Can Expect When Working with Them:
Parents can expect a warm, authentic, and supportive partnership. I will listen with curiosity, celebrate your successes, help you navigate challenges, and provide encouragement along the way. Together, we can explore resources, develop practicalstrategies, and focus on the goals that matter most to you and your family.
Fun Facts About Me
I have an IdI am a lifelong learner fascinated by neuroscience, human behavior, and the many ways people grow and change throughout their lives. When I’m not working, you’ll often find me searching for agates, spending time with family, reading, or going down a rabbit hole about a topic that sparked my curiosity. I love meaningful conversations, a good sense of humor, and learning something new every day. I am also a proud parent and grandma, which has become one of my favorite adventures yet.
Workshops or Programs I Lead:
I facilitate parent support groups and provide welcoming spaces where parents and caregivers can connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. My groups focus on building community, encouraging conversation, sharing practical tools and resources, and creating opportunities for parents to support one another through shared experiences.
