WRCNM News

Women’s Resource Center hires Counseling Director

Joelle Drader

Women’s Resource Center of Northern Michigan (WRCNM) has hired Joelle Drader of Petoskey as Counseling and Advocacy Program Director. In this role, she will oversee the agency’s Counseling Services, Children’s Advocacy Center and Educational and Employment Services. She will also provide staff and community training and presentations on a variety of topics, such as the effects of trauma, gender-based violence, domestic abuse, sexual assault and WRCNM services.

Drader said she began her professional career by caring for women and children as a physician. She returned to school to obtain a Master’s in Counseling and has gained considerable experience working at a nonprofit agency, in private practice and in the school setting.

“Having lived in Petoskey for more than 20 years, I have admired the work of Women’s Resource Center of Northern Michigan and its far-reaching and positive impact on our community,” Drader said.

Drader said the Counseling and Advocacy Program Director position seemed like a great fit based on her education, clinical experience and leadership skills. She was also drawn to the position as an opportunity to return to work in the nonprofit sector while helping further the agency’s mission.

WRCNM Executive Director Gail Kloss said, “We are fortunate to have Joelle join our staff. Her varied experiences and education will be extremely helpful to the agency in continuing to provide compassionate, confidential services to adult and child survivors of abuse and assault in a trauma-informed environment.”

Drader said she is interested in learning more about WRCNM’s history and culture and supporting its vision and mission.

“I also look forward to networking with other community organizations that provide therapy with the goal of working together to support women, children and families in northern Lower Michigan,” Drader said.

WRCNM has served northern Michigan communities since 1977 and is committed to equality, justice and the well-being of women. The organization provides programs and services to individuals impacted by domestic abuse, sexual assault, child abuse or child sexual assault, education and employment, counseling, advocacy and children’s educational services.

WRCNM can be reached at (231) 347-0067 or online at wrcnm.org.  The 24-hour help and information line is available at (231) 347-0082 or (800) 275-1995.