Arlesia Fortson is a native of Kansas City, Missouri, where she lives with her husband of 22 years, C.D. Together, they are the proud parents of Taylor, Josiah, and Jacob, and joyful grandparents to Kimora.
Arlesia earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy and brings over 20 years of experience to the field. Throughout her career, she has worked with several patient demographics across multiple clinical settings, with the majority of her work focused on caring for critically ill individuals in intensive care. She also provides psychosocial support for patients facing mental and emotional challenges, helping them develop coping strategies and strengthen their overall well-being.
In addition to her clinical expertise, Arlesia serves as a H.O.P.E. (Helping Other People Endure) Coach, offering confidential peer support to professionals involved in adverse patient care events. She leads small groups on resilience, is trained in Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, and holds certifications as a Certified Trauma Professional and Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional. Her commitment to whole-person well-being also extends to workshops she has facilitated on goal setting, time management, and personal finance.
Arlesia’s ministry journey spans nearly three decades, beginning with roles as a deaconess, altar assistant, Bible study teacher, and Sunday school teacher. In 2013, she accepted her call to ordained ministry and currently serves at New Hope Church of the Christ in Independence, Missouri, under the leadership of Bishop Bruce Walker and Pastor Calandra Walker. There, she ministers as an associate pastor, armor bearer, intercessor, teacher, and member of the choir and praise team.
Throughout her life, Arlesia has walked through seasons that demanded deep resilience, intentional faith, and complete dependence on God. Her journey as a wife, mother, grandmother, clinician, minister, and leader has given her a unique understanding of the emotional and spiritual weight that many women carry. These personal and professional experiences inspired her to found Wellspring Expressions in 2017—a ministry designed to equip women with Bible-based strategies for intentional and effective life management.
In 2022, Arlesia published her first devotional, The Water and The Well: Encounters With God. Her writing, teachings, and resources reflect her passion for helping women find sacred stillness, strengthen their walk with God, and live with clarity, balance, and purpose.
Above all, Arlesia is committed to glorifying God and advancing His kingdom. She cherishes her family and is devoted to empowering women to invite God into every area of life, deepen their faith, nurture their well-being, and walk confidently in their God-given purpose.