Ada, Jill & Tiffanee - HOPE Counselors
Our HOPE Heroes for May are our outstanding counselors! They continuously go above and beyond while working with survivors and their children to ensure safety and strength and well-being for the families. Our Master’s level counselors provide individual, family and group counseling to survivors and children affected by domestic violence.
About Ada:
Ada attended Buffalo State College and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, then went on to graduate from Webster University with a Master of Arts in Counseling. She has worked at HOPE for 5 years, providing bilingual counseling to survivors of domestic violence. Her work has been important to assist HOPE’s efforts of sharing resources with our Spanish-speaking community members.
About Jill:
Jill is originally from Michigan but has lived in many southern states throughout her life. She has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master’s in Counseling. She has three children, two granddaughters, and one adorable Aussie. In her free time, she enjoys reading, playing tennis, running with her dog, and going on new adventures. Jill has been a Counselor at HOPE for almost 15 years.
About Tiffanee:
Born and raised in Bradenton, Tiffanee went on to attend the University of Florida where she majored in Sociology and minored in General Education. She continued her education and received her Master’s of Counseling in Arts and Science from Webster University. Tiffanee has been employed with HOPE for almost 15 years, served as Interim Shelter Director and is currently working as a Children’s Counselor. Throughout her time with HOPE, she has always been a dedicated advocate for survivors of domestic violence.
What have you learned while working at HOPE?
Ada: I have become more aware of how big a problem domestic violence is within the Hispanic community.
Jill: While working with HOPE, I have learned more about being open to new experiences and how to work on challenges. I am thankful to be working alongside the most amazing diverse and empowering group of women that I learn from on a daily basis.
Tiffanee: I've learned that domestic violence does not discriminate. It affects people of every race, gender, socioeconomic background, and religion. It's humbling to know that when a client comes through our doors, they are putting their lives in my hands and trusting me to walk with them through their journey. Knowing that I’m a part of an important journey with each client and that if we continue to put in hard work, the results will be great.
Tell us about your most memorable accomplishment with HOPE.
Ada: It was special to assist and support a mother in her journey to become reunified with her children that were once removed from her and placed in the State’s custody due to domestic violence.
Jill: Overall, being able to help so many different survivors and playing a role in their journey will always be a memorable accomplishment of mine.
Tiffanee: My most memorable accomplishment was relocating a client out of state to a place she had dreamed of moving to start over. I wasn't going to rest until I got her there, and I am proud we were able to!
Describe the most incredible view you’ve ever seen.
Ada: The sunset while on the beach.
Jill: The Grand Canyon and the births of my children and grandchildren.
Tiffanee: The sky while flying over the gulf of Mexico is a beautiful sight.
What’s your pizza order?
Ada: Buffalo Chicken Pizza.
Jill: Ham & mushrooms!
Tiffanee: Thin crust garlic & pesto sauce with chicken, spinach, and pineapple. I always make sure to add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.