Region V+

About Our Coordinator:

Jennifer Prueser is the Regional Resource Coordinator carrying out CSN business in North Central Minnesota Region V+: Aitkin, Cass, Crow Wing, Morrison, Todd, and Wadena counties. The area served is ideal, as she resides centrally among the counties in the Brainerd Lakes Area. Jennifer says, “I love the city feel and conveniences of Brainerd, and the rural county opportunities for recreation, like fishing, snowmobiling, racing, and biking and walking trails.” All activities are wonderful resources when seeking outlets for recovery.

Jennifer’s roots began in both Aitkin and Crow Wing Counties where her parents were born and raised. They moved to the Twin Cities and raised Jennifer and her brother. Her journey began in the 1970’s. Jennifer grew up repeatedly feeling awkward and confused about her ‘emotional rollercoaster’ emotions and thoughts.

Jennifer has experiences working in the mental health field since the 1990s, and she has learned about multiple resources available to help others in their journey to recovery.

In 2000, Jennifer discovered she had depression, anxiety, and bi-polar, but wasn’t willing to allow them to stop her from living. She returned to college and completed her Bachelor’s degree in Human Services; adding this to her previously earned Associates Degree in Small Business Management.

“I learned to not fear mental illness, but rather I choose to embrace it recognizing it is a small part of who I am. More importantly, I have a voice and the confidence to use it in my journey of recovery. I ask questions, share my idea, and apply creative thinking to challenge systems and stigma I’ve experienced. I’ve gained blessings, strength, faith, and determination to be strong in my journey to better health.”

“My passion is to help others find their voice and use it to get their needs met. I love it when I see others overcome personal challenges. I am pleased with individuals who stand up and empower themselves to take control over their emotional, physical, and spiritual health. I find a great feeling of gratification when I witness people with mental illness leading happy, healthy, productive lives.”

“I am privileged to serve individuals in Region V+ with unmet needs through the Mental Health Consumer/Survivor Network in Minnesota.”

For more information on recovery and wellness, Jennifer suggests visiting www.region5recovery.com and checking out your county’s Local Advisory Council to get involved in Mental Health issues affecting individuals in your county.