Carrie Heldman

Carrie Heldman is a licensed master’s level social worker in the state of Tennessee with 25 years of experience in mental and medical health. Her passion for mental health advocacy began during an abnormal psychology class in college, sparking her dedication to learning about mental illness, reducing stigma, and supporting those affected by mental health issues.

After earning her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia, Carrie was accepted into the accelerated program at the University of South Carolina, where she completed her Master’s in Social Work. During her graduate internship at a medical hospital, Carrie worked as a medical social worker on an acute unit, gaining valuable experience in medical health. Her professional journey has included therapy, grief counseling, crisis counseling, and discharge planning in psychiatric hospitals, hospice care, nursing homes, and home health.

Carrie has also served as the healthcare medical power of attorney for her father and two aunts, all of whom passed away in hospice, further deepening her understanding of grief and medical care. Carrie’s personal experience with grief intensified when her son Ryan, then 15, lost his lifelong best friend, William, in a tragic accident.

Walking through this loss with her son and William’s mother, Carrie recognized a crucial unmet need for specialized grief support, particularly for bereaved siblings, who are often unintentionally overlooked. Together, they are advocating for families of the deceased, raising awareness and funds to provide the specific support this population needs.