I am so grateful for the opportunity to have Derek Bylsma on the show. As we dived into his 20-year journey of sobriety, his belief in recovery was consistent. His belief strengthened my understanding that recovery and healing aren’t a straight line. There are setbacks, the same highs and lows as life, guilt, shame, love, joy and gratitude. It’s all-encompassing, and there is no one-size-fits-all path. It’s about exploring what works best for you and what resonates with you and then giving it your best shot. When a setback happens, which it will, always remember that it’s a choice to stay there. That choice belongs to you.

About Derek Bylsma:
Derek is the Executive Director of Millennium Counseling Center and heads their 3A and Sports divisions. He is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a nationally board-certified counselor. He is also fully trained in EMDR Therapy.

In addition to two bachelor's degrees, one from Kalamazoo College and the other from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Derek also holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University. After a successful career in business and strong family ties in the helping professions, it became apparent that Derek’s true calling was to help those struggling with life’s many challenges.

Derek specializes in recovery-related work, mood disorders, co-occurring disorders and issues unique to athletic performance. He is particularly enthusiastic about leading the sports division at Millennium Counseling Center as it marries two of his lifelong passions: helping others and athletics. As a soccer player, Derek was a two-time college All-American and All-Big Ten player and, after graduating, went on to play professional soccer in the U.S. More recently, Derek’s ties to athletics shifted from player to coach and he has been recognized as one of the top High School soccer coaches in Illinois. His experience as a high-performing athlete and coach, as well as his extensive experience in the mental health field, provide clients with unique benefits in our sports division.

Derek draws from his own life experiences and insights to help others see the power of having choices in life. He believes, “It all works out in the end. If it hasn’t worked out, it’s not the end.”

Connect with Derek:
Millennium Counseling Center: https://millenniumhope.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-bylsma-2260121/

RAV is part of the podcast network, SportsE Media
SportsE Media is a sports media platform and production company that connects entrepreneurs, executives, athletes, and fans. It focuses on sports, entrepreneurship, mental health, and media.
https://sportsepreneur.com/

RAV is also a part of QuietLoud Studios
QuietLoud Studios is the podcast network where reflection and voice come together.
https://quietloudstudios.com/

RAV is produced by the team at KazCM
KazCM is a B2B content production company that builds assets and drives revenue by writing and talking. If you are looking to create a podcast, show, or written works, talk with the team at KazCM.
https://kazcm.com/

Connect with Jacob Newton, Host of Raw, Authentic & Vulnerable
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Newtonsmind55
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-newton-05b680121
Website: https://www.newtonsmind.com/