Welcome to OPTIC's Team

At OPTIC, we believe in the transformative power of community and trauma-informed care to create lasting change. Our dedicated team brings together diverse perspectives and extensive expertise in behavioral therapy, child development, and navigating complex healthcare, social service, and justice systems. With a deep understanding of trauma, resilience, and the unique needs of individuals and families, we are committed to empowering healing, dismantling stigmas, and championing equity in mental wellness.

Explore the Perspectives That Fuel the Passion. Discover the skills and stories of the passionate individuals who make up OPTIC’s team. With expertise in behavioral therapy, child development, and navigating complex systems, our team works together to make healing approachable and accessible. Each perspective adds passion and depth to our mission, helping communities and individuals grow and thrive.

"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." – Helen Keller

Bri Welch

- Pre Licensed LPC

Co-Founder, President & CEO

I am inspired to stand alongside our community, use my voice for good, and hold hands with anyone who seeks support, to learn, help, and heal together.

I bring a unique perspective to OPTIC. As someone who has spent most of my life navigating and overcoming adversity, as a single parent, caregiver, someone living with physical disabilities, and advocate for inclusion, I’ve developed a deep understanding of resilience and compassion. These experiences fuel my passion for fostering meaningful connections and bringing our community together in a shared journey of healing and support.

With over 12 years of experience as an ABA Registered Behavioral Therapist, I’ve supported children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families with compassion and collaboration. In addition, I’ve navigated complex systems, including medical, mental health, educational, and social services, strengthening my resolve to advocate for equitable, trauma-informed support and care.

At OPTIC, I am committed to ensuring that every person feels valued and supported. Together, we strive to build a healthier community, united by resilience and shared vision of learning, healing, and helping one another.

Rachelle Coffey

-MS, LPC

Co-Founder, Vice President & Treasurer

My name is Rachelle Coffey. I am a queer mental health counselor licensed in Wisconsin and Arizona. I am one of the founding members of our amazing nonprofit and am inspired to bring wellness back to our communities. I received my undergraduate and master's degrees from Marshall University in my most favorite state and where I spent most of my life, West-by god-Virginia (as my father would put it).

I spent seven years in Wisconsin developing the foundation of my behavioral health career prior to moving to Arizona with my two daughters. Here, I work with the most marginalized populations from child victims of human trafficking to homeless veterans and have built a perspective of collective need that I wish to share with the community. It is my belief that our only option out of the current mental health crisis is to inspire hope at home and awareness within our own communities of what it is actually like to be a human under these circumstances. Working through many governing systems within our society, I have learned perspective is everything, hence the acronym O.P.T.I.C. It is my dream that we will bring inspiring minds together to bring practical solutions and develop strategies for the great rebuild of our community.

Amber Finger

Founding Volunteer

For six years, I worked on the front lines of community care as a social worker, witnessing firsthand how systems meant to support people often fall short. Although my direct service work ended about seven years ago, my own healing journey helped reconnect me with my passion for supporting those who are misunderstood — especially my fellow LGBTQ+ community.

As a trans‑masculine human, I feel called to uplift LGBTQ+ youth and the families who stand beside them. I understand the daily challenges of growing up in a world that often asks people to be anything but themselves, and I bring that lived experience into every space I support.

“We heal others by healing ourselves.” My story of self‑healing and growth is still unfolding, and I carry a deep commitment to continuing that work within the LGBTQ+ community.

As a Founding Volunteer, I help extend OPTIC’s mission into the community in ways that honor my lived experience and current capacity. My presence reflects courage, authenticity, and a dedication to making sure others feel seen, supported, and never alone in their journey.

Angela Harris

- MS, LPC

Volunteer - Clinical Educational Advisor

I am a retired Licensed Professional Counselor who brings my clinical experience and steady, compassionate presence to OPTIC’s educational work. With a background in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client‑Centered Therapy, and Play Therapy, I supported children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families throughout my career, focusing on grief, loss, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, and trauma.

As a Clinical Educational Advisor, I contribute my clinical experience on a volunteer basis. I provide thoughtful guidance, help shape trauma‑informed learning materials, and support the development of community education in ways that reflect my understanding of mental health, human behavior, and resilience. My involvement strengthens the quality and integrity of OPTIC’s educational mission.

Susanne Campbell

Communications Director & Board Secretary

I serve as the Communications Director and Board Secretary for OPTIC Resources, where I support the organization's mission through strategic guidance, governance, and thoughtful oversight of communications. My role centers on helping shape clear, aligned messaging that reflects OPTIC's trauma-informed values and long-term vision.

Professionally, I bring a background in communications and community engagement, with a focus on strengthening connection, clarity, and trust. I believe effective communication is not just about sharing information - it's about creating a sense of belonging and ensuring people feel seen, supported, and informed.

As a member of the queer community, I’m deeply committed to inclusive, affirming spaces and advocate for representation and equity in both my personal and professional life. I carry this perspective into my work with OPTIC, supporting efforts to ensure conversations around mental health, healing, and community are accessible to all.

Rhi Coffey

Board Member & Content Manager

I serve as a Social Media Specialist, guided by Susanne, and as a Board Member at OPTIC Resources. At 17, I bring a thoughtful, youth-centered perspective to our mission of helping individuals better understand their mental health and grow into healthier, happier versions of themselves.

I'm passionate about mental health advocacy and focus on creating compassionate, accessible digital content that helps people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds feel seen, supported, and encouraged in their emotional well-being. My work blends creativity with intention, strengthening OPTIC's outreach and helping foster a welcoming, inclusive online

Elijah

Youth Volunteer

Hi, my name is Elijah, and I’m here to spread joy and remind everyone to nourish their inner child.

At OPTIC, I help bring fun, creativity, and imagination into our community. I love turning ordinary moments into adventures and finding playful ways to help people feel welcome, supported, and encouraged. I bring a youth perspective that’s curious, expressive, and full of big feelings and big ideas. I believe that taking care of your mental health should include play, connection, and remembering what makes you feel brave, silly, and alive. I’m proud to volunteer with OPTIC and to help create a world where everyone feels seen, valued, and encouraged to be themselves, no matter their age.