MADISON – Except for college years at Auburn University, Grace Crawford is a lifelong Madison resident. She remembers the landscape dotted with cow farms, cotton fields and Thomas Pit BBQ for its much-loved taste.

“I loved living in a college town because there was a lot of investment in students in the community,” Crawford said. “I like that the city of Madison also values the next generation and invests in youth in various ways.”

“Most of all, I love the people who reside in Madison. The people are friendly, invested in developing youth and tend to be open-minded.”

In addition, she appreciates that the town is “full of folks from diverse places with varied backgrounds. This really gives the community a small-town but flavorful feel.”

Crawford is glad that many people, herself included, grew up in Madison and then decided to return and build families and careers. After graduating from Bob Jones High School and Auburn, Crawford established her career here in counseling and wanted “to grow a family in a city that’s beautiful and full of people that demonstrate positive values.”

Crawford, a Licensed Professional Counselor, has worked in this field since 2008. “I love working to help people achieve increased health and peace in their lives,” she said.

Crawford founded her own counseling practice, Grace Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC, at 1477 Slaughter Road in Madison. “I recently joined forces with Changing Lanes Christian Wellness Ministries and Counseling Center. I treat adults, adolescents and children with issues including depression, anxiety, relational issues, oppositional behavior, substance abuse and grief,” she said. She also works with couples.

“I am happily married to Will Crawford and am grateful for the wonderful husband that he is,” she said. Grace volunteers in Children’s Ministry at Southwood Presbyterian Church, “a great opportunity to invest in children and lots of fun.”

“I’m a big fan of the Alabama Shakes and very proud they’re from just down the road in Athens,” Crawford said. “I enjoy attending concerts, especially in the area. Over the years, I have seen Widespread Panic, Old Crow Medicine Show and Gov’t Mule.”

She appreciates Madison’s choice of restaurants and likes to have brunch at Cork & Crust and dinner at Old Black Bear. “Madison has some great boutique shopping that is popping up! I love Boutique Warehouse and Daisy Lane Gifts,” Crawford said.

In addition, she is the proud owner of two cats, Shug and Nova.