About Kristi
I have been working in the field of counseling in some way, shape or form for fourteen years. After I graduated with a degree in journalism and psychology from Indiana University, I continued my schooling with a Master’s Degree in counseling and counselor education, graduating in 1994.
My first “real” job after graduation began in 1994 with East 91st Street Christian Church in Indianapolis, IN, as their support and recovery group director. In 2003 God led our family to Bloomington, IN, where I began work with Family Solutions as a referral therapist for child protective services. In 2006 we moved again, this time to Louisville. I worked with Wellstone Regional Hospital as a pastoral therapist and educational consultant before God brought me to Christian Academy of Louisville, where my daughter attends and where I had been volunteering in the library.
I have been married for fifteen years. My husband and I have one daughter - a CAL fifth grader. Our family is involved with Mexico Family Camp - a yearly mission trip to Mexico (http://thompsonmexicofamcamp.shutterfly.com), Big Brothers Big Sisters (www.bbbsky.org), Arcadia Community Center (http://arcadiacommunitycenter.org) and the financial counseling ministry at Southeast Christian Church. We are also busy with our daughter’s softball, field hockey, karate and guitar. We have two dogs and three hermit crabs.
Writing continues to be a big part of my life as well. I work as an instructor for the Institute of Children’s Literature and as a freelance writer for an assortment of magazines. I have published two novels - Jericho Walls and Throwing Stones - under my pen name, Kristi Collier, and a nonfiction book - The Girls’ Guide to Dreams (www.collierbooks.com).
As I look back at the twists and turns my life has taken, it is clear that God’s hand is steering the ship. God is just as active in the lives of every child here at CAL. His promises ring true, and I am committed to helping each child realize the plans God has for him or her. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord. “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11.
