I’m Ronicka Schottel, EdD, LIMHP, LADC — a counselor, evaluator, educator, and lifelong learner who believes that people make sense when we understand their stories.

My path to this work wasn’t linear. It was shaped by lived experience, deep curiosity about human behavior, and years of working within systems where decisions carry real consequences for individuals, families, and communities. Over time, I found myself drawn not only to counseling, but to the spaces where clarity, accountability, and understanding are essential — evaluations, education, and professional collaboration.

I’ve spent much of my career sitting with people during moments of uncertainty: when something isn’t working anymore, when change feels overwhelming, or when others are making decisions about their lives. Those experiences taught me how important it is to slow down, ask better questions, and see the whole person — not just symptoms, behaviors, or diagnoses.

The Experiences That Shaped My Work

My professional background includes clinical counseling, substance use and mental health evaluations, and collaboration with medical, legal, and community systems. Along the way, I’ve worked with individuals, couples, families, and professionals navigating complex personal and systemic challenges.

But my work has also been shaped by my life outside of professional roles — as a parent, a partner, and a person who values intentional living, ethical choices, and meaningful connection. I understand firsthand how stress, grief, transition, and responsibility can show up in everyday life, and how deeply those experiences affect our mental health, relationships, and sense of self.

These combined experiences led me to approach my work with humility, curiosity, and respect. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all answers. I believe in understanding context, honoring resilience, and creating space for growth that feels sustainable and real.