Strong Beginnings

Arbor Circle’s Strong Beginnings program is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of Black and Latinx parents and their babies, from pregnancy through early childhood. By focusing on the unique needs of these communities, Strong Beginnings seeks to promote racial equity and eliminate disparities in birth outcomes in Kent County.

Promoting Racial Equity and Well-Being with Strong Beginnings

Understanding the importance of a strong foundation for both parents and children, Arbor Circle’s Strong Beginnings program offers a wide array of support services tailored to the specific needs of Black and Latinx families. Our dedicated team works closely with each family to provide compassionate and culturally sensitive care, empowering parents to foster nurturing environments for their children’s growth and development.

Services provided by our strong beginnings program include

  • Individual and group therapy services for Black and Latinx parents and their babies
  • A focus on promoting racial equity and eliminating disparities in birth outcomes in Kent County
  • Coordination of mental health services to address various emotional and psychological needs
  • Support for substance use concerns, ensuring access to appropriate resources and care
  • Psychiatric services to promote comprehensive well-being for families from pregnancy through early childhood

Our Strong Beginnings Therapists

Mariah arnold, LLMSW

Mariah received her Bachelor’s of Social Work from Central Michigan University, with a combined focus on Women and Gender studies. She then went on to finish her Master’s of Social Work from Grand Valley State University. She has worked in the field since 2018. Mariah has experience working in child welfare, early childhood, at-risk youth, and women’s aid shelters. She continues to be an advocate for intersectional social justice issues related to her identities as Hispanic, African-American, and a birthing person. Mariah acknowledges that mental health has long been a stigmatized topic in our communities, but she believes it’s an important step to maintain our personal wellness.

Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Pregnancy, Postpartum, Life Transitions, and many more

Marissa Kinney, LLMSW, CLC

Marissa earned her Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work from Grand Valley State University. She has worked in the field since 2019.

Specialties: Pregnant people and new parents

Vauwn Nghiem-Olson, LLMSW, IMH-E (II)

Vauwn earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology & Sociology from Grand Valley State University and her MSW from the University of Michigan. She has worked in the field since 2019.

Specialties: Early Childhood, Developmental Concerns

Tanya Zamora, LLMSW, MS

Tanya earned her Master of Social Work from Western Michigan University and her Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from Ferris State University. She has worked in the field since 2012. Tanya is dedicated to helping serve families and making a difference in their lives.

Specialties: Trauma Specialization: Trauma Across the Lifespan

Languages: Spanish

Looking for help?

Call us at 616-456-6571 to learn more.

Call 616-456-6571

Sign up for our newsletter

Our monthly newsletter is the perfect way to stay updated on the latest happenings, events, and inspiring stories from our community members.