Full News Story

Westfield State alum Alan-Michael Chest '11 holds a bachelor's degree from Westfield State and a Master of Education in Mental Health & School Adjustment Counseling from Cambridge College. Alan-Michael is being recognized by America's Best in Medicine, an organization that honors top medical professionals in their respective fields. Alan-Michael's work focuses on trauma-informed methods, emphasizing care, compassion, and connections with his clients. Chest uses a blend of dialectical behavioral therapy called DBT, a form of talk therapy that promotes both acceptance of oneself, willingness to change, and the support of one's own intense emotions, with expressive arts therapy, mindfulness, and narrative work, covering a wide range of clients from younger children to couples or solo. Alan-Michael Chest notes that he helps clients develop key skills, including emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and self‑identity empowerment.

The Holyoke native has jumped into private practice, and as of last April, Chest began his own practice, named "Miracles Happen Therapy." Chest, also known as Professor C., discussed core concepts of his practice and his work on his website, stating a profound quote: "To see differently, one must do differently" which he notes, encourages clients to step outside of their comfort zone and embrace change. Professor C., the same name Alan uses for most of his social media and TikTok accounts, is truly making waves in the mental health field.

Congratulations on your recognition by America's Best in Medicine for excellence in healthcare!