University News

Just Hired: Autumn Gonzalez

December 12, 2024

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Just Hired! Through the experiences of local, regional, national and international students, Western Illinois University has some incredible alumni who are changing the world in the workforce. This series will feature students from all over the world who are hired post-graduation.

MACOMB/MOLINE, IL - - Meet Autumn Gonzalez, a graduate of WIU's graduate Clinical Mental Health Counseling, who has accepted a job with The Project of the Quad Cities (TPQC).

"I assist those needing resources living with HIV/AIDS," Gonzalez said. "TPQC is committed to providing remarkable care and radical acceptance through a holistic approach to health care. Our services have expanded to include a sexual health clinic, LGBTQ+ health care, pharmacy services, and no-cost behavioral health services, among others. I began my journey here as a licensed clinician and am now proud to serve as the Behavioral Health Clinical Manager."

Gonzalez feels her path at WIU shaped her professional identity.

"The Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at WIU, fostered critical thinking and problem-solving skills, allowing me to analyze complex clinical situations effectively. Additionally, the emphasis on ethical practices and advocacy prepared me to navigate the challenges within the mental health field. The program's focus on experiential learning provided me with the confidence and competence needed to transition into my role at TPQC, where I can apply these skills in real-world settings to make a meaningful impact," Gonzalez said.

Gonzalez plans to stay involved with WIU through an internship program that she initiated at TPQC.

"This program enhances our behavioral health department's capacity to serve underserved, marginalized, and vulnerable populations in the Quad Cities community, increasing access to vital services while providing valuable training for future clinicians. In partnership with the WIU Counselor Education Faculty, we facilitate meaningful field experiences for aspiring counselors. The university assists in identifying practicum and internship students, while TPQC serves as a quality placement site, offering essential supervision to prepare them for their careers. Additionally, I, along with other team members, regularly collaborate with faculty to present training sessions, further enriching the educational experience for students. Alongside my work at TPQC, I own a group private practice that offers diverse mental health services and free complementary healing options. I am exploring collaborative opportunities between my practice and other community partners to enhance our collective impact and expand resources for our clients," Gonzalez said.

To share your hiring story with WIU, visit forms.gle/him2LFf9eyCb5yKk9.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing