MEET OUR TEAM MEMBERS
Justine C. Baker, LPC-R, QMHP
Resident in Counseling
Justine C. Baker is a Resident in Counseling at Higher Ground Recovery. She received her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University in May 2021 and is currently working toward LPC licensure. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Virginia in May 2013. She began at Higher Ground in January 2020 as a practicum student where she also later completed her clinical internship. Justine has experience working with clients with Substance Use Disorders, ADHD, and ADD and is passionate about helping her clients set and maintain healthy relational boundaries, learn and apply healthy coping skills, and thrive in their recovery.
Prior to beginning her residency, Justine worked as an Outreach Care Specialist with the Addiction and Recovery Treatment Services program at Anthem. In her free time, she enjoys baking, reading, and trips to the park with her husband, daughter, and two dogs.
Kennedy DeLesDernier, LPC-R
Resident in Counseling
Kennedy DeLesDernier is a Resident in Counseling at Higher Ground Recovery. She received her Master’s degree in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University in December 2022 and is currently working toward LPC licensure. She began at Higher Ground Recovery in August 2021 as a practicum student and stayed to complete her clinical internship as well. Kennedy has experience working with Substance Use Disorders as well as a variety of co-occurring mental health disorders. She enjoys working with individuals, families, and adolescents and is passionate about helping her clients establish a balanced and fulfilling life in recovery from substance use and other challenges.
Prior to her clinical residency, Kennedy worked in a Veterinary Clinic for ten years providing medical care to pets and education and support to their humans. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her husband and her many pets: a dog, three cats, and two horses. She and her husband are expecting their first child this year and she is looking forward to a new journey of motherhood.