
Musician | Counselor | Author | Speaker | Ministry Leader | Podcast Host
Welcome, I’m Susan and I’m so glad you’re here.
As you explore these pages, I hope you’ll discover something we all long for — to be truly seen, heard, and understood. If you’ve ever felt neglected, rejected, unaffirmed, or walked through the pain of trauma, know that you’re not alone. This is a safe and sacred space where God’s mercy meets our deepest need for healing and affirmation.
✨ Sign up for counseling and walk alongside someone who listens and cares.
🎧 Tune in to THE NOTICE podcast for encouragement and biblical insight.
📖 Read the book A FIRM GRASP to find hope and strength for your story.
🌿 Join us at Maple Ridge PLACE — our beautiful 14-acre property in Traverse City — for workshops, retreats, and events
I can’t wait for you to experience all that God has in store — a life restored, renewed, and firmly held in His grace.
Nestled on 14 peaceful acres in Traverse City, Michigan, Maple Ridge PLACE is a space set apart for rest, renewal, and connection. Here, two life-giving ministries—Freedom Farm Grand Traverse and AFFIRM Ministries—come together with a shared heart to walk alongside others in their journey toward healing and growth.
Through spiritual counsel, workshops, retreats, Arch Study Groups, and special gatherings, we create opportunities for you to slow down, be seen, and encounter meaningful transformation in a supportive and faith-centered environment.
We invite you to watch our video and experience the heart behind Maple Ridge PLACE.

Do you find yourself stepping in quickly to fix others’ problems, even when it leaves you feeling drained or overwhelmed? Have you ever wondered if your desire to help might sometimes be doing more harm than good—for them or for you?
If so, this workshop is for you.
Join us for a one-day, engaging and supportive experience as we explore the delicate balance between helping and enabling. Together, we’ll talk honestly about co-dependency, healthy boundaries, and what it truly means to love others well—without rescuing them from the natural consequences that can lead to growth.
Through Scripture, trusted resources, and real-life experiences, you’ll gain practical insight into:
You’ll leave feeling equipped, encouraged, and more confident in how to care for others without losing yourself in the process.

