In this interview, Dr. Sheperis shares valuable insights into her professional journey, from the evolution of her theoretical orientation to the mentors who profoundly impacted her approach to counseling. She reflects on the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone, embracing feedback from diverse perspectives, and the critical role of mentorship for counselors-in-training.
Tag: #paloaltouniversity
Guest Post: My PAU Journey by Edelysse Lopez
When I was accepted into PAU, a new fire ignited inside of me. I was ready to become a student again, eager to learn and experience such a special program that was the perfect fit for me.
Joining Chi Sigma Iota at Palo Alto University
I have become a member of Chi Sigma Iota (CSI), the international honor society for counseling professionals and students. Not only have I joined this organization, but I am also serving on the leadership team of the Phi Alpha Upsilon Chapter at Palo Alto University as the Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program Member-at-Large.
Starting Year Two in the Counseling Program
Group Counseling has been on my radar since the beginning of the program. My personal experience with group counseling many years ago was eye-opening and incredibly valuable for my growth, so I have been curious to learn what it takes to become a skilled group counselor.
Final Week of Summer Quarter: A Short Pause Ahead
I will take a short break from posting here on the blog. Don’t worry, though. I will be back on September 10 with an exciting update! In that post, I will share the courses I will be taking in the Fall quarter and reflect on my expectations for the journey ahead.
Gearing Up for My Fourth Quarter in the Counseling Program
The skills and values I will develop and/or reinforce through these courses will be invaluable to my future profession. By learning to design and implement effective outreach programs and interventions, I will be better prepared to ensure that those most in need have access to quality mental health care.
How Studying Counseling Changed My Perspective as A Client
As a client, I saw my therapist as a guide. Now, as a therapist in training, I see our relationship as a collaborative partnership. I am the expert on my own life, and their role is to support and facilitate my journey toward self-discovery and healing.
The Road to Expertise: Unpacking Development and Diagnosis in Counseling
My third quarter in the Counseling program at Palo Alto University started yesterday. I am taking two courses this term: COUN612 Life Span Development and COUN634 Diagnosis. Today, I am sharing with you what these courses are about and some of my hopes for this quarter.
Reflections on a Transformative Week: My First Residency Experience
The heart of the residency was centered around the integration of both basic and advanced counseling skills. In a series of role-playing exercises, we took turns being mock clients and counselors, providing each other with a unique opportunity to apply what we have learned in a controlled yet impactful environment. Under the caring gaze of our instructors, we engaged in these scenarios, receiving specific feedback.
Interview: Dr. Alyx MacTernan
In this interview, Dr. MacTernan shares her motivations for pursuing a career in mental health, her perspectives on the challenges facing the field, and her experiences that have shaped her approach to teaching and counseling. She also discusses the evolving role of technology in mental health and offers advice to students...