Exploring Life & Business with Dr. Carol Van Dyke of We R.U.L.E.

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Carol Van Dyke.

Hi Dr. Carol, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Dr. Carol Van Dyke, a clinical psychologist developed an early interest in empowering young women, while working as a counselor aid for at risk youth while pursuing her bachelor’s degree . After graduating with her bachelor’s, Dr. Van Dyke pursued her Master’s degree and completed a doctorate degree in clinical psychology from The Michigan School of Professional Psychology. In 2002, Dr Van Dyke hosted a popular radio show called Teen Voices which aired weekly on 90.9 WDTR which gave a platform for teens to talk about personal and social issues from a teens perspective..

We R. U.L.E. a 501(c)3 was founded by Dr. Van Dyke and her niece Lauren Tate after candid conversations with each other about their personal experiences of childhood sexual abuse and their healing journey. After continued conversations, Dr. Carol and Lauren discussed how their trauma could help heal young women and We R. U.L.E. was born.

We R.U.L.E. ( Respect, Unify, Love and Empower (RULE) is a 20 week mental health curriculum that helps young women 7th through 12th grades who experienced sexual violence and broken relationships how to Respect Unify Love and Empower themselves through artistic expression.

We R.U.L.E. strives to improve mental health, emotional wellbeing, strong connections and inspire and cultivate self confidence and produce a community of strong sisterhood.

We R.U.L.E. initiated their mental health curriculum program at Southfield AT&T high school and has been implementing the curriculum for the last 5 years. A second school has been added in Madison Heights. Dr. Carol stated “the girls revealed what they liked most about the program which is talking about personal issues and being heard” “They also admitted being able to resolve conflicts and having tools to help manage intense emotions”

We R.U.L.E’s community outreach program is aimed at bringing awareness, education and prevention to sexual violence against women. Dr. Carol states “Our community outreach program is about hosting powerful events within the community focused on connecting adults, caregivers, parents, community leaders and law enforcement with the goal to educate, provide resources and build cross agency collaboration to protect and empower young women.

Dr. Carol also has Empower Her sexual Health and healing program which is a separate program tailored for college campuses across the metropolitan Detroit area specifically supporting young women who have experienced sexual assault on college campuses which remain a critical public health issue. Currently, an App is being created early next year for college women to create a safe trust- building environment where survivors can choose anonymous or confidential information that lets survivors immediately report and help protect others from being sexually assaulted.

In addition to formulating We R.U.L.E., Dr Carol maintains a private practice in Livonia where she specializes in trauma. Dr. Van Dyke was also a resident psychologist for WDIV and Fox 2 for the last 15 years where she spoke about current and mental health issues.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road. There are always challenges and obstacles when you have a goal, plan and timeline. I was able to overcome those obstacles by first my belief in God, staying disciplined, support from my network and implementing self care.

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Having a relationship with Jesus Christ who keeps me centered, focus hopeful and disciplined

Contact Info:

• Website: we-rule.org
• Instagram: we_r.u.l.e.