Erica Hollins is a 2023-2024 supplemental fellow alumna with the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Erica earned her bachelor’s degree in sociology from Davidson College and is currently pursuing her master’s in clinical mental health counseling at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Erica is passionate about expanding access to addiction and mental health treatment for communities of color, with a long-term goal of earning a doctorate and addressing systemic barriers to mental health care.
Erica was drawn to the MFP because of its focus on supporting underserved populations and fostering diversity in the field of counseling. She shared, “I was in the beginning of my counseling education after transitioning from social work. I did not know many counselors who looked like me or shared my commitment to serving the communities I care deeply about. I hoped the MFP program would provide me with the insight and support I needed to thrive in this profession.”
When reflecting on how the MFP has enriched her academic and professional career, Erica shared that the fellowship provided invaluable resources, mentorship, and opportunities for growth. She stated, “The MFP has given me the confidence to overcome social anxiety, build meaningful professional relationships, and step into leadership roles, such as being promoted to the 988 digital team lead at the Trevor Project and recognized as a student leader. The mentorship I received has been instrumental in solidifying my aspirations to pursue doctoral studies and engage in impactful research and community service.”
Participating in the MFP has significantly helped Erica build and nurture her professional network by enriching her understanding of the field and supporting her career development. She shared, “The MFP has connected me with an incredible range of counseling and mental health professionals who have provided invaluable guidance and mentorship. Whether through online messaging, phone calls, or virtual meetings, I've been able to seek tailored advice for working with my target populations. The program has also encouraged me to attend workshops, webinars, and conferences, where I've engaged with other professionals and presented my research ideas. These opportunities have expanded my network, solidified my presence in the field, and provided valuable feedback to refine my work.”
As a part of her fellowship, Erica conducted two projects that focused on often overlooked populations in mental health and addiction research. She explained, “One of my projects centered on the experiences of suicide prevention lifeline workers. This was to gain a better understanding of their struggles with trauma, barriers to mental wellness, and increases in addictive behaviors. These professionals work tirelessly to support others, yet their own mental health needs often go unaddressed. My goal is to highlight their challenges and advocate for improved support systems.”
Erica plans to integrate the knowledge and skills gained through the MFP into her future career as an addiction counselor and mental health advocate. She shared, “I aspire to apply evidence-based practices, such as trauma-informed care and culturally competent counseling, to better serve high-achieving women of color and first responders.” She also highlighted the importance of integrating the knowledge and connections she has made through mentorship as she pursues her doctoral studies and advanced roles in mental health.
After completing her M.A., Erica’s career goals include becoming a licensed clinical addiction counselor specializing in underserved populations. She shared, “I plan to continue my education by pursuing my doctoral studies to contribute to research that explores the intersection of trauma addiction and mental health. I also aim to take on leadership roles within the mental health field, advocating for policy changes and creating resources that improve access to care for underserved communities.”
When asked what advice she would give to someone considering applying to the MFP, Erica enthusiastically shared, “If you’re thinking about applying, do it! The MFP offers an incredible opportunity to access specialized training that can shape your career in meaningful ways. Beyond financial support, the program provides unique experiences, such as conferences, collaborating with experts in the field, and focusing on research that aligns with your passions. It’s also a safe space for personal growth, helping you overcome challenges like imposter syndrome while empowering you to become a leader in the mental health field. If you’re committed to making a difference in underserved communities, the MFP will equip you with the skills and connections to do just that.”
In closing, Erica shared these encouraging remarks about the MFP, "I am thankful for this opportunity changing my life. I look forward to volunteering to help future fellows; once a fellow, always a fellow!" She also shared these glowing remarks about her fellowship with NBCC, “The NBCC Foundation is a small but mighty organization that has created a family for many people. I am thankful for all they bring to the counseling profession.”