Todd Willis

About Todd:

He and his wife, Kendra, live in Union Township.

Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology from Indiana University Northwest.

Master's degree in counseling from Associations of God Theological Seminary in Missouri.

Licensed mental health counselor and licensed professional counselor.

Employed by Porter-Starke Service, Inc. for seven years.

Loves music, plays bass and drums.

Accomplishments: Todd Willis is director of children's services at Porter-Starke Service, Inc. He oversees all programs for school age children, ages 6 ½ to 18. He supervises the alternative school in cooperation with Wheeler, Morgan Township, Washington Township, Hebron, Kouts and Boone Grove high schools, also the Reach and Stages Program with Porter County Education Interlocal for special education students who have been unsuccessful at their public school. These students receive schooling along with individual and group therapies. Willis directs various school-based services where therapists or a social worker goes into the school to run weekly groups. These range from social skill building and peer relationships to dealing with issues as they arise. "It helps the kids to form a relationship with someone in their own setting. To meet people where there at and to decrease the overall stigma," he said. "We are very grateful for that partnership. We've been excited about what we're

able to do for the kids and to be a resource for the schools." Willis is involved in community education and training to increase awareness of mental health issues with kids. "Porter-Starke definitely cares about their community," he said. "The staff here has a compassion and dedication for serving those with mental illness. There is no where else I would rather work."

Personal heroes: "My father, Lyn Willis has always been someone I've looked up to and two of the folks that have helped me the most at Porter-Starke are Rocco Schiralli and Sandy Carlson. They have really been invaluable to me in my growth."

What I read: "Most of my reading is professional."

Advice: "Trust the process, life's a process."

How to get involved: For more information on Porter-Starke Services, call (219) 531-3500 or e-mail twillis@porterstarke.org

People might be surprised to know: "I love ballroom dancing and I'm a big Minnesota Viking fan." -SUE BERO, Times Correspondent

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