Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Chaney.
Hi Mark, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was born premature with cerebral palsy. After multiple surgeries, I was taken away from my biological mother who was not able to care for me. I was placed into foster care and was adopted by a woman and her partner. My adoptive mother was Ill and after a few years. She passed away. I don’t remember much about her, but I do remember feeling loved.
I was then was raised by her partner and lived with her and her adopted son. This time was challenging as I faced multiple abuses by both her partner and my adoptive brother. After years of incidents, I was placed back into foster care. This is where my life took a turn. I was placed with a loving family and was shown love and compassion. I emancipated from foster care, went on to college, got my master’s in social work and became a therapist.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There have been many struggles and obstacles. I was born with a disability, challenge. I experienced trauma, challenge. I was a foster child, challenge. I have faced mental health challenges. All of these have been challenges and at times, obstacles to my goals and life.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I currently work full time and am beginning the process to start a private practice. It has been a goal of mine to offer therapy and build on the social work skills that I love. I want to extend my reach and help others through their lives and challenges. We don’t talk about mental health and there is still a very real stigma.
I am proud of so much. If I had to choose, I would say I am most proud of who I have become. I am proud that I get to help others. It’s a great way to spend your life.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Not really one that I can point too. Part of social work is continuing education. There is so much more to learn, both personally and professionally for me.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Chaney1992
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.chaney.50
Image Credits:
Dusti Cunningham
