Volunteer Spotlight
Geoffrey Landers-Nolan, Volunteer Counselor
For volunteer counselor Geoffrey Landers-Nolan, giving back isn't just a professional responsibility; it's a personal belief.
Geoff spends most Fridays meeting with CVIM patients through telehealth. He says one of the things he values most about CVIM is its collaborative approach to care.
"We have a therapist meeting where all the mental health volunteers, including case managers, counselors, and our psychiatrist, meet to talk about client care," he says. "I love the integrated care aspect of CVIM, and I think it enhances client outcomes greatly."
Geoff works full-time as a therapist, but he believes everyone deserves access to care, even when insurance isn't an option.
He also wants more people to know these services are available. "Lots of people still don't realize CVIM has mental health services," he says.
Working with CVIM patients has also given Geoff the opportunity to connect with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. "I've been struck by the breadth of backgrounds, experiences, and personalities across the people I've had the opportunity to work with as clients."
Asked to describe CVIM in one word, Geoff doesn't hesitate: vital. "I find great meaning in being able to provide healthcare without cost," Geoff says. "Healthcare should not ever be pay-walled. I'm grateful to have a structure within CVIM that lets me put some of that belief into action."
"It's humbling to be part of an organization that directly supports the survival of some members of our community. I'm glad each patient we serve lives here, and I'm glad we exist to serve them too."
Outside of his therapy practice and volunteer work, Geoff enjoys watching college and professional sports, spending time with his wife, and cheering on his nieces at softball and basketball games, spending time at the beach, and trying to learn bass and guitar through an online video game. "I'm still terrible," he laughs.
When asked why others should consider volunteering, Geoff points to both the community impact and the opportunity to give back.
"None of us have made it to where we are on our own," he says. "It's part of what I believe we owe each other to give back by using our skills to help our community."
