It's Worth It

This week, I had one of my best experiences at my practicum site. I led an individual counseling session and facilitated another group. And although I have done both of these things in some capacity before, on Wednesday, I got a glimpse of what it feels like to really make a difference in a client's life.

During the group, one client, who is usually engaged and helpful, appeared to become restless and angry. I asked what was wrong but got no answer, and expected that I never would. However, after the group was over, the client came up to me and told me she was going through something, and it had nothing to do with the group. I thanked her for sharing that with me. What was so great about this experience is knowing that the clients at my site see me as someone they can share with, someone who cares what they're going through.

Similarly, during my individual session, the client appeared listless and annoyed. However, using only the basic counseling skills I've learned this year, I was able to turn the session around to where she became comfortable disclosing how she felt. This experience left me feeling something I hope every counselor feels at least once in their life. It left me feeling FULFILLED.

There aren't many professions where you can interact with people who have had difficulties all throughout their lives, learn who they are inside, and teach them to trust again. I mention this experience simply because I want every beginning counselor to know that one day, you will feel like you're making a difference. And on that day, you'll realize it was all worth it.

Take a BREAK

This weekend, I took another trip down to Charlottesville to visit my sorority sisters. We had four new members come out, so dozens of our sisters from other parts of the country and other chapters came down to celebrate the occasion. Here's a photo:

It was an amazing day! Two of our chapter founders (holding the shield in the front) even came down to welcome the new members. And I must say, this was a MUCH NEEDED VACATION. Even though we were only there for the day and had to leave that night, I can't tell you how much I appreciated getting the chance to go back to a place I consider home and spend time with people I care about.

Of course, I want you to know that I have made, and you will make, wonderful friends here who you will keep for life. While I was at dinner this weekend, even, I was texting my two closest friends from GSE. But you are going to realize, as I did, that grad school is exhausting! I love it, and I love working at my practicum, but it starts to wear you out after a while. And that's why I think it's so important to take a break. During spring break, I stayed in Philly to get some hours in at practicum and save some money, and although I was successful in that, and did have some time off from school, I wish I had taken the opportunity to just chill out on a beach somewhere.

No matter how great the program is going or how much you love working at your site, always remember that your own mental health comes first. Take a trip to visit your undergraduate institution, your family, or your friends. Whatever you do, make sure you're treating yourself.