I don't remember when it started, but most of my adult life, others have come to me with mental health, relationship, or leadership struggles asking advice. I shared my experiences, education, wisdom, and skills, hoping to help them overcome their obstacles to success. I have been called "The Answer Person" by at least a dozen people in very different areas of my world. When I decided to go to college and build a career after my children were young adults, I decided on psychology for my degree. I was in my undergraduate program when a guest speaker cancelled and our assembly was instead invited to hear the journey of two young women who had been through human/sex trafficking and domestic violence. In that moment, I knew I wanted to specialize in trauma-focused care. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology 3 years later (a year early) and found out to work one-on-one, I would have to either go all the way through a doctorate program or switch to counseling and complete a master's degree and state licensure. I chose the latter because I was an older student, and because it would get me before the clients much sooner.
I was looking at a 4 1/2 year degree, so I decided to double up on classes, take no time off, and work through breaks. I got the 3 1/2 years of classes, 24 in all, done in just 2 years, then did my year of practicum, internship I and internship II, just 6 years from zero to Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an Emphasis in Trauma.
I have the privilege to help clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, substance abuse, grief, personality disorders, and negative life experiences. I love what I do in my role as a counselor. I can't imagine doing anything else so worthwhile. I feel I was created just for this purpose.