Christy Heusted
Christy Heusted is a dedicated emerging counseling professional and U.S. Army veteran currently serving as a Case Manager with Hope Network while continuing to grow her career in the mental health field. Based in Michigan, she recently earned her Master’s degree in College Counseling from Eastern Michigan University and is committed to supporting individuals in achieving stability, independence, and improved quality of life. Her work focuses on community outreach, connecting clients with resources, and providing compassionate, person-centered support.
Heusted brings over a decade of military experience, having served eight years on active duty as a Signal Support Systems Specialist and more than two years in the Army Reserves as a Religious Affairs Specialist. Throughout her service, she deployed internationally and supported large-scale network operations, trained teams on communication systems, and later transitioned into a role centered on emotional and spiritual support for fellow soldiers. In this capacity, she worked closely with chaplains to provide confidential guidance, coordinate religious services, and foster morale and resilience within her unit.
Her transition into the mental health field reflects a natural extension of her commitment to helping others. With a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Michigan-Flint and advanced training in counseling, Heusted combines technical discipline, cultural awareness, and empathy in her work. Passionate about serving underserved communities, she is focused on making a meaningful impact through therapy, advocacy, and outreach—empowering individuals to navigate challenges and build healthier, more fulfilling lives.
• LLPC (Limited Licensed Professional Counselor)
• Eastern Michigan University
• University of Michigan-Flint
• University of Michigan Children's Cancer Wing Donations
• Anxiety Pack Donations to Eastern Michigan University Students
What do you attribute your success to?
I had a very strong, wonderful grandmother who showed me that no matter how hard it gets, there is always somebody you can ask how to do something if you don't know how to do it. She taught me to ask someone, learn how to do it, and always try to do something yourself so that if necessary, you don't have to rely on anyone else. That lesson has really shaped how I approach challenges and has been fundamental to my success.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would say what someone was kind enough to say to me - that it's okay if you don't have a plan. If you're curious about something, try it. If you hate it, when you're young you can walk away without too many punishments. You don't know if you like something if you don't try it. I didn't do a straight path like a lot of younger people who go directly from high school through college. I got out of high school and had no idea what to do, worked in factories, got laid off a lot, tried different things, and eventually joined the Army. That experience of trying different things and not being afraid to explore helped me eventually find my path to mental health and counseling.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I think the opportunity is to really reach out and help people who truly do need help, and that's why I chose the office in Flint with Hope Network. I had grown up with my stepmother having a house in Burton and my mom having a house in Otter Lake, so I got to see both sides of being in the middle of nowhere and being more in the city. I've always noticed going to events downtown, especially, how many people need help, so I chose to come to Flint to help. I think a lot of the barriers are just the required paperwork for Medicaid and the inspections, which tend to hold us up from actually being able to schedule more people.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Selfless service is really a big one for me. But I'm also a very proud citizen and think everyone should do their civic duty and vote and research what's going on in their areas, so that you can have a say in what happens to you. These values guide both my professional work in helping others and my personal commitment to being an engaged and informed member of my community.