Meet Savanna
Student Volunteer
Meet Savanna! She embodies everything Authentic You stands for—authenticity and passion. With diverse experience in both the automotive and pet industries, her dedication to the mental health profession has never wavered. Whether supporting a confused guest unsure about a product or guiding excited new puppy owners in choosing their first dog bed, Savanna has consistently fostered an empathetic and welcoming atmosphere with everyone she encounters. She looks forward to bringing that same warmth and compassion to the Authentic You team.
In her current role, Savanna is responsible for administrative and billing functions, as well as warmly welcoming all guests. Under the guidance of Melissa and Karen, she ensures each guest receives attentive and personalized care. Her background in call centers and customer service has equipped her to interact with both guests and clinicians with professionalism and authenticity.
Savanna is currently pursuing her Master’s degree at City University in Edmonton. With an undergraduate degree in Sociology, she believes her academic foundation strengthens her ability to contribute meaningfully in her volunteer role. Her commitment to personal growth and compassion will not only support her success at Authentic You but also in her future career within the mental health field.
Savanna reflects the core mission of Authentic You: “to provide high quality, high support, values-driven care that honours the complexity of the human experience—for clients, psychologists, and the wider community alike.” She is eager to share this mission with everyone who enters the clinic.
Welcome to the team, Savanna!
Authentically Savanna
Supporting our team with heart and care!🌿
In her free time, Savanna reconnects with herself through movement. Whether it’s a brisk walk outdoors, a challenging lifting session at the gym, or a mindful yoga practice, she believes all forms of movement are beneficial. Movement has been a meaningful release for her during difficult times. To Savanna, movement is an inclusive activity—one that transcends race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or beliefs—allowing people to connect through shared experiences and simply enjoy doing what they love.
Savanna also deeply values travel and exploring diverse cultures. From her first solo trip to Europe to family adventures in Mexico, each experience has shaped her growth mindset and left lasting impressions on her heart. She especially enjoys relaxing on a warm beach with music playing to clear her mind, but she’ll never turn down the chance to visit a historic museum. If there’s a flight leaving, Savanna is ready to go!
Her journey with mental health has been just that—a journey. While an optimist at heart, she acknowledges there are days when hope feels harder to hold onto. A defining challenge came when she tore her ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) not once, not twice, but three times. Having to give up the movement she loved most was difficult, but with the support of family, friends, rehabilitation, and her own commitment to her authentic movement fueled self, Savanna emerged stronger and more resilient.
At her core, Savanna is empathetic, resilient, and relationship-oriented—qualities that have been continuously tested and strengthened throughout her life. She looks forward to bringing these traits to the Authentic You team while continuing to grow and develop along this journey.
Savanna’s Personal Insights
Everything—from the beautiful butterfly sign that welcomes you into the office, to the inspiring founder Karen and our incredible CCA Melissa. This clinic reflects the values and beliefs that I hold close, and I feel proud to be part of it!
What inspired you to volunteer with us?
My growth mindset, current pursuit of a Master’s in Counselling, and strong communication and interpersonal skills.
What strengths or qualities do you bring to this role?
Being real, raw, and vulnerable can be difficult, but it is how I choose to live my life. In every interaction, big or small, I strive to show up as my true and AUTHENTIC self!
What does “authenticity” mean to you in your own life??
I have this motto tattooed on my leg because it continues to guide me in both my personal and professional life: ‘In the end she became more than she expected, she became the journey. Like all journeys she did not end, she just changed directions and kept on going’.
Do you have a favorite quote, saying, or perspective that guides you?
As I shared in my bio, I love movement—whether it’s a lifting session, a Pilates class, or a walk. Movement helps me reconnect with myself and has brought some amazing relationships into my life. I also enjoy a good book, time in a café, planning a new trip, or spending time with my loved ones.
What do you enjoy doing outside of school or volunteering?
I can (somewhat) speak fluent French. My grandmother is fully fluent, and with a few reminders I’m able to hold full conversations with her.
Share a fun fact or short story that helps others get to know you? ?
