Our staff comprises women and men who are not only excellent in their professional areas but are friendly, personable, creative and community-minded. We enjoy working together! As a staff, we strive to create a wholesome, spirited atmosphere where those who come will feel welcomed and appreciated.
Alaina Alvarez is a 2020 graduate of Ohio Northern University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Technology. She completed her Music Therapy certificate in 2024 at Western Michigan University and is currently pursuing her Master of Music in Music Therapy. She completed her internship with Hospice of Cincinnati. She enjoys working with a variety of populations but has a passion for working with those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Olivia Amting is an experienced music educator with over five years of teaching experience. As a 2025 undergraduate from Aquinas College, Olivia studied music with a focus on piano and organ. In addition to her involvement in the Grand Rapids communities, Olivia teaches piano, guitar, voice, and Latin and is deeply committed to fostering musical and personal growth in her students. Olivia is thrilled to be working at the Franciscan Life Process Center as both a receptionist and a music lessons teacher.
Look for information in 2025.
Stephanie DeByle graduated from Grand Valley State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications. She is a dedicated professional with over 26 years of experience working with businesses to help solve problems, streamline processes, lead change, and provide excellent customer service. She serves as a Lector at St. Paul the Apostle.
Aileen Galang graduated from Robert Morris University in Pittsburgh, PA with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, majoring in Finance and Economics. She has 15+ years of experience in hospitality and manufacturing industries doing accounting and human resources. She worked at the Center since 2017.
Abbey Shell is a music therapy student at Western Michigan University. Upon completing her internship, she will graduate with a music therapy degree and a minor in psychology. Abbey is most excited to expand her repertoire and clinical skills through working with various client populations. In her free time, she enjoys writing original songs, crocheting, journaling, and spending time with her husband, Jason.
Jennifer Quiroz graduated from Divine Mercy University with a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling after completing Bachelor of Arts degrees in Catechetics and Theology at Franciscan University of Steubenville. She enjoys working with clients at a variety of developmental stages, including children, adolescents, and adults. She likes to journey alongside clients as they explore their world and relationships, identify needs, and seek solutions. Her clinical interests include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationships, and the integration of spirituality and mental health.
Sister Gabriella Pettirossi is a native of Assisi, Italy. She earned a degree in Marketing and Management of Touristic Enterprises in Italy, a Post-Master Certificate in Theology from Holy Apostles College and Seminary in Cromwell, CT and a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Central Connecticut State University in New Britain, CT.
Shanelle McGinnis is a 2024 graduate of Western Michigan University with a bachelor’s in music therapy degree and a minor in psychology. Shanelle is a Grand Rapids native and enjoys music of all kinds, as well as serving and helping others. She completed her internship at FLPC and continues to work at the Center with many different populations but has a passion for children and seniors.
Emily is a clinical social worker. She completed her Bachelors of Social Work from Grand Valley State University in 2004 and her Masters of Social Work from Western Michigan University in 2008. Emily has assisted individuals and families over the past 15 years through her work in mental health, pregnancy counseling, adoption, oncology social work and school counseling. Emily enjoys working with couples and families to heal relationships and improve communication. She works with adolescents and adults in all stages of life. Emily has experience helping those struggling with parenting children with special needs, depression, anxiety, grief, perinatal mood disorders, and coping with chronic illness. In addition to seeing private clients at the center, Emily provides school counseling services to students at two Grand Rapids Catholic Schools.
Molly comes to the Franciscan Life Process Center as a graduate of Aquinas College in 2018 and Grand Valley State University in 2020, and currently works both as an Registered Nurse in Obstetrics (Labor & Delivery/Postpartum) and as a FertilityCare Practitioner for the Creighton Method of Natural Family Planning. She has a passion for her Catholic faith, Women’s Health & Reproduction, Life & Love, enjoys working in areas where science & faith complement each other. Molly has a special compassion for those struggling with menstrual abnormalities, pain, abnormal bleeding, PMS/mood swings, & infertility. She now educates couples in the Creighton Model FertilityCare System both in-person and virtually, and refers to providers as necessary for NaProTechnology Intervention.
Sister Jeanne d’Arc Paquette has worked for the Franciscan Life Center Network since 2013 in the roles of administration, fundraising and digital media. She has experience in web design and videography, and in elementary art education. Sister received her BA in Media Arts and Design and her MA in Theology. She played French horn at the collegiate level and enjoys arranging music for voice and brass ensemble.
Casey is currently completing her final semester as a counseling intern at the Franciscan Life Process Center and will be graduating in December of this year with a Master of Arts degree in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling from Western Michigan University. She enjoys working with clients of all ages, especially in the context of family and relationships. Casey will foster an environment of trust as she helps her clients address issues ranging from anxiety and depression to communication and unhealthy patterns in thinking and behavior.
Sister Margaret Dahl has a Bachelor of Music Education from Idaho State University and a Master of Art in Musicology from City University in New York. She also has an accounting equivalency degree from the University of Minnesota – Duluth. Sister has taught piano in Idaho and Washington for 15 years and at The John Duss Memorial Music Conservatory for 15 years. She is a proficient accompanist.
Marissa Peak completed her Bachelor of Arts in Music from Aquinas College. She received her Bachelor Equivalency degree in Music Therapy and is currently working on her Master of Music in Music Therapy at Western Michigan University. Marissa completed her music therapy internship at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital where she provided music therapy services in many areas of the hospital, including the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, and Hematology/Oncology Unit.
Amanda Partlo graduated in 2005 from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Music Therapy degree. She worked with Sonata, Inc. and Capital Hospice as a contractual music therapist in Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. She has conducted music therapy sessions in a maximum-security forensic facility in Florida and in nursing facilities. Amanda has a passion for seniors and has a big heart for hospice work as well as Alzheimer’s and dementia care.
Rachel Neve received her Bachelors of Music Therapy at Eastern Michigan University after completing her internship at Franciscan Life Process Center in the fall of 2021. She enjoys working with clients of all ages and abilities at the Center, fostering growth, encouragement, and the love of music in those she serves.
Machaela Marquez completed her Bachelor of Music Therapy from Western Michigan University in summer of 2022. She’s studied voice and is working towards acquiring voice students of her own in the future. Machaela enjoys working with clients of all ages and abilities and is passionate about fostering growth through music.
Marlae Fox graduated from Western Michigan University with her Double Bachelors Degree in Music Therapy & Violin Performance in 2021. She additionally graduated with an Associates Degree in Bible at Grace Christian University. Marlae has spent over 10 years teaching violin, viola, and cello lessons out of her home as well as 6 years at The Academy of Music in GR. Marlae has experience working with pediatrics, adults, geriatrics, and hospice and enjoys them all.
April Fausch Cullum has a bachelor of Arts in Music and Psychology from the University of Northern Iowa and a MA/Equivalency in Music Therapy from the University of Iowa. She has experience teaching adapted music lessons and saxophone. April has presented locally and nationally on music therapy and therapeutic uses of music with special populations. She is currently the President of the Executive Board for Michigan Music Therapists.
Georgia is a registered nurse certified as a Creighton Model FertilityCare practitioner. She has been teaching and referring for medical management of fertility issues for 11 years. Recently, she is pursuing her certification as a FEMM teacher with the hope of certification in 2023.
Laura Chapin graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from the University of Michigan and completed her Masters in Social Work at Portland State University. She has worked as a child and family therapist with families impacted by foster care or adoption. Laura is an expert in the Symptopro style of fertility education. She is eager to combine her love of supporting families with her passion for fertility education.
Sister Colleen Ann Nagle received a Bachelor of Elementary Education from Viterbo College, a Master of Arts in Counseling and Child Development from Michigan State University and a Master of Arts in Moral Theology from Holy Apostles College and Seminary. During her thirty years as a therapist, Sister has been a teacher, counselor, administrator, and consultant. From 1988 to 1996, she worked with the Kent County Juvenile Court in the Adolescent Sex Offender Program. She provides consultation services and crisis intervention to schools and parishes. Currently, Sister Colleen Ann sees private clients and is the director of the Franciscan Life Process Center. Professional Memberships: American Counseling Association, Michigan Counseling Association, Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association
Amanda Whitscell-Fischer initially encountered the Center when she and her family participated in the first annual Franciscan Rhythms Trail Run in 2015. She was excited to see that a prairie restoration was underway and felt an immediate connection to the land. Amanda graduated from Grand Valley State University with a degree in Natural Resources Management, she has worked for various non-profits, land stewardship agencies as well as the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. She is grateful for the opportunity to assist the Land and Building Team in supporting the mission of the Center.
Steve serves as the handyman making repairs and working on projects on the land. He is a retired band director and has a BS in Music Education from Grand Valley State University.
Barb Ritsema learned about the Center when she sent her children here for preschool in the 1990’s. After working in a variety of roles in the service industry, she was hired as support staff in 2007 to help with the management of the land, and the maintenance of our meeting facilities and overnight accommodations. Barb creates an environment that is both welcoming and professional. Her work on the indoor space of the Center makes visitors and guests feel at home.
Cris Ritsema, born and raised in Grand Rapids, MI, worked for the Bouma Corporation for over twenty years and graduated from Michigan State University’s Landscape and Nursery Program. Cris began his association with the Sisters through the community workdays. In 2005 started in the site manager position at the Center. Because of his training at MSU and his background in construction, Cris creates beautiful landscapes with special features like our new waterfall. In addition, he is an excellent leader and manager of the many work groups and volunteers that come to the Center.
Rockford Psychological Services, 16 North Monroe, Rockford, MI 49341, provides consultation and supervision to our therapy staff.
Dr. Peter Birkeland is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Michigan. His undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Biology were received in 1981 from the State University of New York at Binghamton (now Binghamton University). He received his Master’s degree in clinical psychology in 1983 from Michigan State University and his Doctorate degree in clinical psychology from MSU in 1985. He interned at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit and Dearborn, Michigan.
Dr. Birkeland has worked in inpatient and outpatient settings at Reading Hospital in Reading, Pennsylvania and at Pine Rest Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He has been in private practice for 23 years with his main office in Rockford, Michigan and a satellite office in Big Rapids, Michigan. He does psychotherapy with adults and adolescents as well as marriage and family therapy. He also specializes in formal assessment of ADHD, developmental academic disorders and personality. Contact Dr. Birkeland at 616-866-4830.
Kristin Lothschutz graduated from Aquinas College with a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling after completing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art with a minor in Developmental Psychology. Kristin enjoys working with clients from adolescence to adulthood on various issues including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and relationships. She also enjoys working with couples to improve communication and strengthen relationships. Kristin aims to provide a nonjudgmental counseling relationship in which clients can process what is happening in their lives and work through the issues they face.
Johanna Denton graduated from Grand Valley State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. She completed her Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at St Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas. She also holds Master of Arts degrees in Orientation and Mobility (blind rehabilitation) and Psychology. Johanna will remain curious during therapy and will cheer for her clients’ success. She offers hope and helps clients to use solution talk. Johanna works with couples, families, and individuals to find solutions which work best for them. Johanna has been a military spouse for almost 20 years and is well versed in the unique needs of military families. She also specializes in work with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem issues, relationships, and trauma.
Professional Membership: AAMFT (American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy)
Jamie graduated from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education. She completed her Master of Arts in Counseling from Michigan State University. During her 20+ years in the field, she has worked in both public and private schools as a teacher and counselor. Jamie enjoys working with children and adolescents helping them to become effective and competent problem solvers when personal issues affect their ability to succeed. She has facilitated workshops addressing female relational aggression issues as well as addressing bullying issues through small group and classroom lessons.
Laura Brandt graduated from Hope College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Business Administration. She completed her Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology at Western Michigan University. Laura enjoys working with clients ranging in years from adolescence through adulthood. She believes in meeting her clients at the unique place they face in their life journey. Her clinical interests include anxiety and mood disorders, self-esteem issues and shame, grief and loss, faith/spirituality, relationship concerns and women’s issues.
Sister Anna Rose Kalinowski is a member of the Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist. Sister met the Community in Duluth, MN and has been active in the business arena for 40 years, specializing in accounting since the early 2000s when she joined the Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist. She received her B.S. in Accounting from Central Connecticut State University and a Masters in Theology from Holy Apostles College and Seminary (Cromwell, CT). Sister has worked in Parishes and Catholic Schools over the past ten years. sark@lifeprocesscenter.org.
Sister Mary Paul Moller is a member of the Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist, whose Motherhouse is in Meriden, CT. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Catholic University of America in Washington DC; a Master’s of Science in Animal Science and Therapy from Michigan State University in East Lansing, MI and a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Idaho State University in Pocatello, ID. She is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor. Over the past 25+ years, Sister has been a teacher, counselor, custody evaluator and court appointed parenting coordinator. She developed the Community Task Force on Child Sexual Abuse in Pocatello, Idaho, was the director of the Franciscan Counseling Center in Pocatello and has worked extensively as a counselor in the Parochial School system. She has given presentations on a wide variety of topics including Creative Play Therapy, Using Play as a Diagnostic Tool and Parenting with the Virtues. Sister also co presented with Sister Colleen Ann “An Integrated Approach to Play Therapy,” in both the United States and the Holy Land. Sister recently joined the staff at the Franciscan Life Process Center and is currently working as a school counselor in several area Catholic schools and sees private clients at the Center. Sister has also trained and works with a certified therapy dog named, Piccola (Picco for short) who has joined the staff with her.
Professional Memberships: Clinical member of AAMFT (American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy), APT (Association of Play Therapy), and the Michigan Play Therapy Association.
Kathleen Bechtel joined the FLPC staff as Art Director in January 2014. She attended Kendall College of Art and Design and has taken workshops with nationally known instructors whose work she admires. Kathleen also has memberships in art organizations around the state, enjoying what each organization has to offer. She now brings many of those instructors to Lowell. Kathleen carefully selects each workshop teacher based on classical art principles. She also finds that these instructors care deeply about their students and bring their unique perspective to each group.
Kathleen works primarily in oil in a realistic style. Her work can be found in collections in various places throughout Michigan including healthcare facilities and private collections among others. She also enjoys teaching different aspects of art in the open studio class on Wednesdays and teaching children’s art workshops.
Ashley Strobel graduated from Aquinas College with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Communication and a minor in Theology. After College, she spent a year in San Francisco, Ca as a Dominican Volunteer/Americorp Volunteer at a Cristo Rey School. Since then, she has served in a variety of positions in both the business world and the education field in Michigan, Connecticut, New York and Pennsylvania. She has a passion for serving those around her. You will find her in both the Lowell and Grand Rapids campuses throughout the work week and she works hard to make both a welcoming environment for all.
Sarah, who received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Davenport University, has over eight years of experience working with nonprofits in marketing and event coordination.
Sandy Koteskey, MT-BC, graduated from Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI with a Bachelor of Music Therapy degree in 2005. She has been with the Franciscan Life Process Center since completing her internship, working with individuals and groups of children with autism and multiple impairments. She also teaches trumpet and guitar. In 2018, she was appointed the Associate Director of the Music Therapy Program. She expanded her teaching experiences in 2019 when she taught an Introduction to Music Therapy course at Grand Rapids Community College. Sandy has given presentations on music therapy throughout Michigan and works with many businesses and care providers to develop music therapy programs for their clientele. In 2023 Sandy was appointed as director of the center. Any inquiries about enrollment in services or general questions, please email skoteskey@lifeprocesscenter.org.
Marcia Foote graduated from Grand Valley State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education/Language Arts. She served as a catechist, director of religious education and a teacher in both public and Catholic schools in Michigan. In addition to her work on the Troubadour, Marcia serves as the receptionist at the Lowell Campus on Tuesdays.
Sister Colleen Ann Nagle received a Bachelor of Elementary Education from Viterbo College, a Master of Arts in Counseling and Child Development from Michigan State University and a Master of Arts in Moral Theology from Holy Apostles College and Seminary. During her thirty years as a therapist, Sister has been a teacher, counselor, administrator, and consultant. From 1988 to 1996, she worked with the Kent County Juvenile Court in the Adolescent Sex Offender Program. She provides consultation services and crisis intervention to schools and parishes. Currently, Sister Colleen Ann sees private clients and is the executive director of the Franciscan Life Process Center. Professional Memberships: American Counseling Association, Michigan Counseling Association, Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association
Sandy Koteskey, MT-BC, graduated from Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI with a Bachelor of Music Therapy degree in 2005. She has been with the Franciscan Life Process Center since completing her internship, working with individuals and groups of children with autism and multiple impairments. She also teaches trumpet and guitar. In 2018, she was appointed the Associate Director of the Music Therapy Program. She expanded her teaching experiences in 2019 when she taught an Introduction to Music Therapy course at Grand Rapids Community College. Sandy has given presentations on music therapy throughout Michigan and works with many businesses and care providers to develop music therapy programs for their clientele. In 2023, Sandy was appointed as director of the the center. Any inquiries about enrollment in services or general questions, please email skoteskey@lifeprocesscenter.org.
Sister Margaret Dahl has a Bachelor of Music Education from Idaho State University and a Master of Art in Musicology from City University in New York. She also has an accounting equivalency degree from the University of Minnesota – Duluth. Sister has taught piano in Idaho and Washington for 15 years and at The John Duss Memorial Music Conservatory for 15 years. She is a proficient accompanist.
Marcia Foote graduated from Grand Valley State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education/Language Arts. She served as a catechist, director of religious education and a teacher in both public and Catholic schools in Michigan. In addition to her work on the Troubadour, Marcia serves as the receptionist at the Lowell Campus on Tuesdays.
Aileen Galang graduated from Robert Morris University in Pittsburgh, PA with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, majoring in Finance and Economics. She has 15+ years of experience in hospitality and manufacturing industries doing accounting and human resources. She worked at the Center since 2017.
Sister Anna Rose Kalinowski, FSE has been active in the business arena for 40 years, specializing in accounting since the early 2000s when she joined the Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist. She received her B.S. in Accounting from Central Connecticut State University and a Masters in Theology from Holy Apostles College and Seminary, Cromwell, Connecticut. Sister has worked in parishes and Catholic schools over the past ten years.
Sarah, who received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Davenport University, has over fourteen years of experience working with nonprofits in marketing and event coordination.
Stephanie DeByle graduated from Grand Valley State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications. She is a dedicated professional with over 26 years of experience working with businesses to help solve problems, streamline processes, lead change, and provide excellent customer service. She serves as a Lector at St. Paul the Apostle.
Olivia Amting is an experienced music educator with over five years of teaching experience. As a 2025 undergraduate from Aquinas College, Olivia studied music with a focus on piano and organ. In addition to her involvement in the Grand Rapids communities, Olivia teaches piano, guitar, voice, and Latin and is deeply committed to fostering musical and personal growth in her students. Olivia is thrilled to be working at the Franciscan Life Process Center as both a receptionist and a music lessons teacher.
Kathleen Bechtel joined the FLPC staff as Art Director in January 2014. She attended Kendall College of Art and Design and has taken workshops with nationally known instructors whose work she admires. Kathleen also has memberships in art organizations around the state, enjoying what each organization has to offer. She now brings many of those instructors to Lowell. Kathleen carefully selects each workshop teacher based on classical art principles. She also finds that these instructors care deeply about their students and bring their unique perspective to each group.
Kathleen works primarily in oil in a realistic style. Her work can be found in collections in various places throughout Michigan including healthcare facilities and private collections among others. She also enjoys teaching different aspects of art in the open studio class on Wednesdays and teaching children’s art workshops.
Sister Colleen Ann Nagle, FSE received a Bachelor of Elementary Education from Viterbo College, a Master of Arts in Counseling and Child Development from Michigan State University and a Master of Arts in Moral Theology from Holy Apostles College and Seminary. During her thirty years as a therapist, Sister has been a teacher, counselor, administrator, and consultant. From 1988 to 1996, she worked with the Kent County Juvenile Court in the Adolescent Sex Offender Program. She provides consultation services and crisis intervention to schools and parishes. Currently, Sister Colleen Ann sees private clients and is the executive director of the Franciscan Life Process Center. Professional Memberships: American Counseling Association, Michigan Counseling Association, Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association
Laura Brandt graduated from Hope College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Business Administration. She completed her Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology at Western Michigan University. Laura enjoys working with clients ranging in years from adolescence through adulthood. She believes in meeting her clients at the unique place they face in their life journey. Her clinical interests include anxiety and mood disorders, self-worth/self-esteem issues and shame, grief and loss, faith/spirituality, relationship concerns and women’s issues. She currently holds the positions of Co-Director of the Counseling department and Psychologist.
Sister Mary Paul Moller received a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Catholic University of America in Washington DC; a Master’s of Science in Animal Science and Therapy from Michigan State University in East Lansing, MI and a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Idaho State University in Pocatello, ID. She is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor. Over the past 25+ years, Sister has been a teacher, counselor, custody evaluator and court appointed parenting coordinator. She developed the Community Task Force on Child Sexual Abuse in Pocatello, Idaho, was the director of the Franciscan Counseling Center in Pocatello and has worked extensively as a counselor in the Parochial School system. She has given presentations on a wide variety of topics including Creative Play Therapy, Using Play as a Diagnostic Tool and Parenting with the Virtues. Sister also co-presented with Sister Colleen Ann “An Integrated Approach to Play Therapy,” in both the United States and the Holy Land. Sister is the director of the Environmental Education Program at the Center and sees private clients at the Lowell and Grand Rapids Campus.
Professional Memberships: Clinical member of AAMFT (American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy), APT (Association of Play Therapy), and the Michigan Play Therapy Association.
Johanna Denton graduated from Grand Valley State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. She completed her Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at St Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas. She also holds Master of Arts degrees in Orientation and Mobility (blind rehabilitation) and Psychology. Johanna works with couples, families, and individuals to find solutions which work best for them. Johanna has been a military spouse for almost 20 years and is well versed in the unique needs of military families. She also specializes in work with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem issues, relationships, and trauma. Professional Membership: AAMFT (American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy)
Kristin Lothschutz graduated from Aquinas College with a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling after completing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art with a minor in Developmental Psychology. Kristin enjoys working with clients from adolescence to adulthood on various issues including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and relationships. She also enjoys working with couples to improve communication and strengthen relationships. Kristin aims to provide a nonjudgmental counseling relationship in which clients can process what is happening in their lives and work through the issues they face.
Sister Gabriella Pettirossi is a native of Assisi, Italy. She earned a degree in Marketing and Management of Touristic Enterprises in Italy, a Post-Master Certificate in Theology from Holy Apostles College and Seminary in Cromwell, CT and a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Central Connecticut State University in New Britain, CT.
Sister Gabriella is a licensed therapist both in Connecticut and in Michigan and has practiced for over 18 years. She has experience in individual, couples and family therapy and has worked with children and adults with physical or cognitive disabilities. She also held group sessions for people suffering the aftermath of separation, divorce, and the challenge of new relationships for over eight years in Rome. Sister was appointed as psychological Assessor in the Marriage Tribunal of the Diocese of Arlington, VA. She is bilingual in Italian and English and speaks French and German.
Sister Gabriella sees private clients at the Franciscan Life Process Center in Lowell and in the Grand Rapids campus.
Jennifer Quiroz graduated from Divine Mercy University with a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling after completing Bachelor of Arts degrees in Catechetics and Theology at Franciscan University of Steubenville. She enjoys working with clients at a variety of developmental stages, including children, adolescents, and adults. She likes to journey alongside clients as they explore their world and relationships, identify needs, and seek solutions. Her clinical interests include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationships, and the integration of spirituality and mental health.
Rockford Psychological Services, 16 North Monroe, Rockford, MI 49341, provides consultation and supervision to our therapy staff.
Dr. Peter Birkeland is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Michigan. His undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Biology were received in 1981 from the State University of New York at Binghamton (now Binghamton University). He received his Master’s degree in clinical psychology in 1983 from Michigan State University and his Doctorate degree in clinical psychology from MSU in 1985. He interned at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit and Dearborn, Michigan.
Dr. Birkeland has worked in inpatient and outpatient settings at Reading Hospital in Reading, Pennsylvania and at Pine Rest Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He has been in private practice for 23 years with his main office in Rockford, Michigan and a satellite office in Big Rapids, Michigan. He does psychotherapy with adults and adolescents as well as marriage and family therapy. He also specializes in formal assessment of ADHD, developmental academic disorders and personality. Contact Dr. Birkeland at 616-866-4830.
Cris Ritsema, born and raised in Grand Rapids, MI, worked for the Bouma Corporation for over twenty years and graduated from Michigan State University’s Landscape and Nursery Program. Cris began his association with the Sisters through the community workdays and became site manager at the Center in 2005. Because of his training at MSU and his background in construction, Cris creates beautiful landscapes with special features like the waterfall and the Rosary Walk. In addition, he is an excellent leader and manager of the many work groups and volunteers that come to the Center.
Barb Ritsema learned about the Center when she sent her children here for preschool in the 1990’s. After working in a variety of roles in the service industry, she was hired as support staff in 2007 to help with the management of the land, and the maintenance of our meeting facilities and overnight accommodations. Barb creates an environment that is both welcoming and professional. Her work on the indoor space of the Center makes visitors and guests feel at home.
Steve serves as the handyman making repairs and working on projects on the land. He is a retired band director and has a BS in Music Education from Grand Valley State University.
Amanda Whitscell-Fischer initially encountered the Center when she and her family participated in the first annual Franciscan Rhythms Trail Run in 2015. She was excited to see that a prairie restoration was underway and felt an immediate connection to the land. Amanda graduated from Grand Valley State University with a degree in Natural Resources Management, she has worked for various non-profits, land stewardship agencies as well as the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. She is grateful for the opportunity to assist the Land and Building Team in supporting the mission of the Center.
Amanda Partlo graduated in 2005 from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Music Therapy degree. She worked with Sonata, Inc. and Capital Hospice as a contractual music therapist in Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. She has conducted music therapy sessions in a maximum-security forensic facility in Florida and in nursing facilities. Amanda has a passion for seniors and has a big heart for hospice work as well as Alzheimer’s and dementia care.
Shanelle McGinnis is a 2024 graduate of Western Michigan University with a bachelor’s in music therapy degree and a minor in psychology. Shanelle is a Grand Rapids native and enjoys music of all kinds, as well as serving and helping others. She completed her internship at FLPC and continues to work at the Center with many different populations but has a passion for children and seniors.
Alaina Alvarez is a 2020 graduate of Ohio Northern University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Technology. She completed her Music Therapy certificate in 2024 at Western Michigan University and is currently pursuing her Master of Music in Music Therapy. She completed her internship with Hospice of Cincinnati. She enjoys working with a variety of populations but has a passion for working with those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Abbey Shell is a music therapy student at Western Michigan University. Upon completing her internship, she will graduate with a music therapy degree and a minor in psychology. Abbey is most excited to expand her repertoire and clinical skills through working with various client populations. In her free time, she enjoys writing original songs, crocheting, journaling, and spending time with her husband, Jason.
Olivia Amting is an experienced music educator with over five years of teaching experience. As a 2025 undergraduate from Aquinas College, Olivia studied music with a focus on piano and organ. In addition to her involvement in the Grand Rapids communities, Olivia teaches piano, guitar, voice, and Latin and is deeply committed to fostering musical and personal growth in her students. Olivia is thrilled to be working at the Franciscan Life Process Center as both a receptionist and a music lessons teacher.
