Jess Walker

Connection Specialist (She/Her/Hers)

SPECIAL INTERESTS: Depression & Anxiety | Eating Disorders & Body Image | Childhood Trauma & CPTSD | Life & Midlife Transitions | Self-Esteem & Personal Growth

Credentialing level: Paraprofessional

Areas of service: All RWC Counties & Eau Claire

Hi! I’m Jess (she/her). I’m naturally curious, pretty high-energy, and genuinely interested in what makes someone who they are—the difficult stuff, the everyday stuff, and the occasional unexpected tangent in between. I know from my own life that what we show the world doesn’t always reflect what’s happening underneath.

I’ve faced some very dark times with my mental health and know what it’s like to feel alone, even with others around. It was during one of those times that I joined a writing group at At The Roots and found a sense of understanding I had been missing. Later, when I noticed myself slipping again, I reached out for peer support there, too. Experiencing that connection firsthand is a big reason why this work matters to me.

I’ve learned not to underestimate how hard it can be to take a step forward when ordinary things already feel overwhelming. Sending the text, making the phone call, showing up, or asking for help can take a kind of courage that isn’t always visible from the outside.

What I’ve lived through has shaped the way I connect with people. I’m open, accepting, and real. I tend to ask a lot of questions, and usually a little humor makes its way into the conversation as well! I enjoy connecting with people across different ages and stages of life, and encouraging women has special meaning for me. Having struggled with an eating disorder and body image, I know how easy it can be to lose sight of yourself. Seeing women begin to recognize their own worth and strength means a lot to me.

Outside of work, I enjoy buying and selling vintage clothing, storytelling in all its forms, day trips, trying new restaurants, and laughing with the people I love. At home, I’m happiest outside with my cat, Richard and my adored pup, Chippie, who has a way of bringing me back to the present and making my days brighter. I’m also a big fan of candy, weird facts, and a good spooky story!

There’s a line from Leonard Cohen’s song “Anthem”: “There is a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in.” It reminds me that things don’t have to be perfect for people to start feeling better. I want my time with people to leave them with a little more belief in themselves and a little more light to carry forward.