These two courses will strengthen my readiness for the next phase of training. But more than a bridge to practicum, this quarter represents an opportunity to broaden my perspective and honor my commitment to becoming a responsive and well-informed, and open counselor.
Tag: #TherapistInTraining
Serving with Purpose: How I Chose My Practicum Sites
The most important factor I looked for was alignment, particularly in the services provided and the populations served. I want to make sure that my practicum experience is shaped by purposeful service, rather than simply collecting hours toward graduation. I also took into account practicalities...
Insights from Spring Quarter
In Child and Adolescent Counseling, I was introduced to play therapy and its potential for working with children. Although our exposure was introductory, it offered valuable insights. One assignment involved leading a 30-minute play session with a child, and the experience was truly eye-opening.
Interview: Catching Up with Edelysse Lopez
I’ve also learned that as a therapist, we have the privilege to learn something new from every client we encounter, which is such a gift in itself. Humility is key to being able to give our clients the best support possible.
Guest Post: Steffan Piper
I came to Palo Alto University to continue my path of service and strive to be there for others in the best capacity possible. In my own circles where I live in the Palm Springs region, it was apparent that the need for mental health counseling was severe for teenagers, veterans, families, and marginalized families.
What Residency II Taught Me About Counseling and Community
This was not part of the official schedule, and it was clear she was doing it simply because she cared. What followed was one of the most memorable experiences of the week. As I watched her work, I saw a therapist who was fully attuned to her client, so much so that I momentarily forgot it was a demonstration.
Looking Ahead to Residency II: Practice, Presence, and Peers
I am excited to be in the same room again with my cohort. After so much time spent learning virtually, there is something powerful about gathering in person, sharing space, and building community. These are the people who have supported and challenged me since day one.
Spring Quarter Begins: Residency II, Crisis Counseling, and the Road to Internship
The highlight of this quarter is Residency II, an immersive in-person experience designed to sharpen our counseling skills through intensive practice and direct feedback from faculty and peers. I am looking forward to reconnecting with my cohort, strengthening our relationships, and collaboratively deepening our competencies.
What My Zumba Instructor Taught Me About Being a Therapist
That is what I hope to bring to my clients: a sense that no matter what they reveal, no matter how chaotic things may feel, I am right there with them. I want to be the therapist who knows the “dance” well enough to improvise when needed.
Hope is a Deliberate Practice
Do not forget for a second that we placed them in office to champion our communities, and it is up to us to hold them accountable. We need to understand that political outreach is an important part of our community engagement, as it can ensure that hope expands, gathers momentum, and becomes part of a collective drive for positive change.
Roque Neto 