At Zepf Center, we know that quality care starts with strong support for the professionals who provide it. As one of the largest and longest-standing behavioral health agencies in the area, our leadership team strives to create an encouraging, empowering environment for all employees. Now serving as a member of our Gambling Treatment Team, Aubrey Price, MSW, LSW, CDCA, is a powerful example of how opportunity, mentorship, and a comprehensive continuum of care can shape both a career and a calling.

Price’s journey with Zepf Center began as a college intern, with no prior experience in behavioral health. Although she was familiar with the industry due to her mother’s career in social work, she had never considered it for herself. After deciding to give the program a chance, Price found herself stepping into a new space that would ultimately define her professional path. What started as shadowing staff and learning the basics quickly became a hands-on experience that opened doors she hadn’t expected.

"This is a complex and ever-evolving field, and we want to make sure the next generation of helping professionals feel supported and equipped to help clients," said Manager of Gambling Treatment & Prevention Megan Poliquin, LPCC-S, LICDC-GAMB, OCPSA. “Schooling prepares them up to a point, but then it’s our turn as leaders to help them continue learning and growing.”

As an intern, Price was trusted with meaningful opportunities. She was encouraged to step outside her comfort zone, pursue her CDCA credential, lead groups, attend conferences, and learn directly from experienced clinicians. This hands-on training allowed her to build confidence and skills early in her career and helped her see what long-term growth at Zepf Center could look like.

After graduation, Price transitioned into a full-time role as a counselor on the gambling treatment team, where she now provides individual and group therapy for clients with gambling disorder, substance use disorders, and mental health needs. She also plays a key role in prevention and community education, representing Zepf Center at local events, presentations, and conferences. Her ability to move between treatment, prevention, and community outreach reflects the strength of Zepf Center’s comprehensive continuum of care and the flexibility it gives staff to grow into well-rounded professionals.

“Having a full continuum of care is not only beneficial for our clients, but it benefits our staff and community at the same time,” said Zepf Center CEO Deb Flores, LSW. “Being able to shadow staff and experience so many aspects of behavioral health is an invaluable tool for us all, let alone those at the start of their career.”

While working full-time, Price also completed her master’s degree in social work through an advanced program, graduating in just one year. Balancing work, school, and licensure was challenging, but she credits Zepf Center’s supportive environment for helping her succeed. Having access to experienced supervisors, real-world clinical experience, and ongoing guidance allowed her to connect what she was learning in the classroom to the work she was doing every day with clients.

One of the most meaningful aspects of Price’s experience has been the culture of support. She describes an environment where questions are encouraged, learning is expected, and staff are never expected to figure things out alone. Having access to knowledgeable supervisors and colleagues helped her gain confidence early in her career and continues to support her to this day.

“One of the things I've loved about my time at Zepf Center is the community here,” Price said. “There are a lot of people with great experience and knowledge who are always willing to have those conversations with you.”

Now, as she works toward independent licensure, Price is beginning to step into a mentorship role herself. She is excited to guide interns and new professionals, just as others once guided her. Looking ahead, she hopes to continue growing at Zepf Center, both as a clinician and as a leader, while giving back to the field and helping shape the next generation of social workers.

Price’s story highlights what’s possible when staff are supported, encouraged to try new things, and given room to grow across programs and services. At Zepf Center, investing in our people isn’t just about professional development; it’s about building a stronger, more compassionate system of care for everyone we serve.

If you or someone you know is interested in joining our trauma-informed team, visit www.zepfcenter.org/careers to view open positions, or call 419-841-7701 to learn more.