David Sabotta

David has a master’s degree in mental health counseling and has been a licensed professional clinical counselor for 15 years. He predominantly serves people on Medicaid at Fernbrook Family Center, which provides inclusive mental health services to all ages.

“I have predominantly worked with people on Medicaid or similar programs in Iowa and it is lifesaving. I cannot emphasize that enough. For many of these people, these are some of the most severe or the highest acuity clients and patients that — without this care — they're in danger. I have worked with a lot of trauma. I've worked with a lot of awful things that can happen to a person. … Whenever we talk about [Medicaid], everyone knows how important it is, everyone says, ‘Oh, of course we need to fund this.’ And then when it comes time to fund this, here we are talking about cuts and that's just devastating. 

“Early intervention is one of the most effective and most cost-effective ways of providing help. It is only with Medicaid that we are able to provide that support for younger children and then have that lasting benefit throughout their life. 

“I'm very proud to live in a state that takes care of its people. That's something that, as a helper, I really value. I think it's wonderful that Minnesota has a history of investing in its people … It pays dividends, and I think that really shows when we look at some of our neighbors who maybe don't put that value first. 

“This is human life. This is taking care of our children and our elderly and the sick. I just think that's a good thing to value."