How a Mom Transformed Her Journey from Marketing to Mental Health: A Full Circle Story – VTDigger

After working in marketing in Boston for ten years, Leanne Estridge decided to leave her job in early 2020. Her infant son needed more care, especially as daycare became challenging. As the pandemic changed how families lived, Leanne and her husband made a major shift: they moved back to Vermont, where Leanne had attended college.

In Vermont, where her husband was building a natural foods business, Leanne saw a chance to follow her dream of becoming a mental health counselor. “I loved my marketing work, but my son needed me more," she shared. This new direction felt right.

Leanne graduated from Champlain College in 2011. She had always wanted to help others, initially considering criminal justice and social work before choosing public relations. “Studying in Vermont opened my eyes to the community, and now I want to have a deeper impact,” she reflected.

An opportunity arose while working with a higher education consulting firm. This experience helped her understand Vermont State University (VTSU) and its counseling program. “I liked how the VTSU program was designed. Then a grant came through just as I was about to enroll, which solidified my decision,” she explained.

Now, Leanne is halfway through her master’s in clinical mental health counseling, expecting to graduate in summer 2026. She’s part of a cohort that meets once a month on campus and works online between sessions. “This slower pace suits me as I balance school with two young kids at home,” she noted.

Financial assistance played a crucial role in her journey. While the initial grant is gone, Leanne is now benefiting from a Vermont Mental Health Forgivable Loan. This program forgives one year of student loans for every year she works in Vermont’s mental health field post-graduation. “This loan made continuing my education possible without overwhelming stress. I can focus on what matters,” she said.

In her internship, Leanne aims to work with community health agencies and a primary care practice that offers integrated mental health services. It’s a big change from her marketing roots, but she sees the value in her past experience. “There’s a real need to address how social media affects kids’ mental health—this is a stark contrast to when I was in marketing,” Leanne laughed.

She believes that her communication skills will be vital in advocating for clients and promoting mental health awareness. Leanne stated, “We need to break the stigma around mental health. Early support for kids can change lives. If we can model positive behaviors for them, we can improve our community.”

Historical Context

The shift toward prioritizing mental health work has grown significantly over the past decade. According to a report by the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five adults in the U.S. experienced mental illness in 2020. This statistic underscores the increasing importance of mental health professionals in society, particularly during challenging times like the pandemic.

Community Perspectives

In recent discussions on social media, many are reflecting on how mental health services need to be accessible and integrated into daily life. People are voicing their support for programs like the Vermont Mental Health Forgivable Loan, which help professionals like Leanne make a difference in their communities.

Leanne’s journey showcases how life changes can lead to fulfilling careers that benefit both individuals and society. By pursuing her passion, she is not only changing her path but also uplifting those around her.

For more information on support for aspiring mental health professionals, visit the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation, a key resource for students and families navigating education and career opportunities.

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