Limited FALL openings still available! Beat the rush!
Kate Smaller, Ph.D.
Dr. Kate Smaller is co-founder of Forward Edge Services, Director of Operations, and Clinical Supervisor. She has been in the field of social work and mental health since 2009, and in private practice since 2011. Her career began in Chicago, where she worked primarily with at-risk, gang-involved youth and survivors of sexual assault. Over the years, Kate has expanded her practice to help people of all ages heal, build self-strength, find greater meaning, and move forward.
"One of the greatest compliments I've received as a professional is that I am 'refreshingly not burned out'. And it's true ~ How could I get tired of facilitating and witnessing transformations that bring people so much relief, joy, and personal freedom? This is exactly what I am meant to be doing, and it is such a pleasure to build genuine, meaningful relationships for a living!"
Mark Smaller, Ph.D.
Dr. Mark Smaller is co-founder of Forward Edge Services, Financial Director, and Clinical Supervisor. Mark is a Psychoanalyst of 40+ years, and former President of the American Psychoanalytic Association (APsaA). He also recently completed his term on the board of the International Psychoanalytical Association.
After spending much of his career in Chicago, Mark moved full-time to Saugatuck/Douglas, where he works with children (as young as 2 years old), adolescents, and adults. Mark has also extended his leadership skills to the local community, having served as Rotary President, and now continuing as an active member spear-heading local initiatives.
Amanda Smith, LLMSW, CCS, CAADC
Amanda joined the FES team with 15+ years of experience in the field of social work, between NuPoint Services in Grand Rapids and Metro Health Hospital in Wyoming, Michigan. Her specialized training and experience is in substance abuse disorder, suicidal ideation, self-harm, domestic violence, trauma, and sexual assault. With her, energy, compassion and competence, Amanda is a tremendous assets to the Forward Edge team. She sees children, adolescents, adults, and couple, and is available for appointments either in the Grand Rapids office or online.
Julie Ball, LMSW
Julie joined the FES team with 12+ years of experience in the field of social work. Her background is primarily in a medical setting, working with adults, older adults, and families to cope with health-related issues. She spent over seven years with Faith Hospice, helping patients and family members through their end of life experiences. Julie's expertise in grief and loss - along with her warmth, curiosity, and depth - is such an important contribution to our team. She primarily provides individual therapy to adult patients, either at the Grand Rapids office or online.
Allison stone, LLMSW
Allison earned her Master's in Social Work from the University of Michigan after completing her Bachelor's in Social Work from Grand Vally State University. Allison's experience prior to Forward Edge Services centered around work with children and families experiencing domestic violence or a loss in the family. With her ability to help patients navigate some of the most challenging waters of family life, we are thrilled to welcome Allison as one of the newest members of the FES team! She is working out of both the Grand Rapids and Saugatuck/Douglas offices with children, adolescents and adults. She is also available for virtual appointments.
Jordan Bennett, Clinical Intern
Jordan joins the Forward Edge team as an advanced clinical intern currently pursuing his Masters in Social Work from Western Michigan University. His experience in the field thus far has been through Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services in Grand Rapids, where he worked as both a psychiatric technician and discharge planner. With FES, Jordan is providing individual therapy to primarily adolescents and adults. He also has a particular interest in working with couples. We are thrilled to welcome Jordan to the team and share him with the GR community!