Jana Hayes is a highly skilled and compassionate Licensed Social Worker (LSW) with over seven years of experience in the mental health field. Her extensive background includes working with individuals facing a broad range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and major life transitions. Through Jana’s work as a school social worker, crisis counselor, and mental health therapist, she has developed a deep understanding of how to support clients of all ages through some of life’s most difficult moments. From the outset of her career, Jana demonstrated a passion for serving others. She pursued a master’s degree in social work from Aurora University with the goal of making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and communities. After obtaining licensure, she began working in various clinical and educational settings, refining her expertise in psychotherapy and crisis intervention.
One of her earliest roles was as a school social worker, where she worked closely with children and adolescents. In this role, she provided vital support to students struggling with emotional, behavioral, and academic challenges. Jana conducted individual and group therapy sessions, teaching students coping mechanisms, emotional regulation skills, and conflict resolution strategies. Additionally, she served as an advocate for students, working collaboratively with teachers, administrators, and parents to create effective intervention plans.
Beyond work in traditional therapy and schools, Jana has also served as a couples therapist assisting couples in the healing process, and as a crisis counselor providing immediate support to individuals in distress. She has worked with individuals experiencing acute mental health crises, including suicidal ideation, self-harm, and severe anxiety or panic attacks. Her ability to assess risk, provide de-escalation strategies, and connect individuals with appropriate resources has been instrumental in preventing harm and fostering recovery.
Throughout her career, Jana has remained steadfast in her mission to help individuals align God’s purpose with their personal journey toward healing and fulfillment. Whether working with children, adolescents, or adults, her compassionate and client-centered approach ensures that every individual feels seen, heard, and empowered to create positive change. With a heart for service and a passion for transformation, Jana is dedicated to guiding individuals toward a future filled with hope, resilience, and grace.
In her spare time Jana enjoys spending time with her two children and family. She enjoys being active, playing basketball and volleyball. Jana likes watching sports including the NBA and professional boxing. She enjoys bookstores, going to amusement parks, waterparks, traveling and watching movies.
Jana’s Recommended Readings:
NKJV Life Application Study Bible, Third Edition – TYNDALE
Winning the War in Your Mind – Craig Groeschel
The Bondage Breaker – Neil T. Anderson
Victory Over the Darkness – Neil T. Anderson
Conquering the Fear of Failure – Erwin W. Lutzer
You Can Change – Tim Chester
Changes That Heal – Dr. Henry Cloud
Understanding Your Potential – Dr. Myles Munroe
Releasing Your Potential – Dr. Myles Monroe
Maximizing Your Potential – Dr. Myles Monroe
Trusting God – Jerry Bridges
The Power of Right Thinking – Kerry Kirkwood