I have the privilege of teaching college students and find this to be one of the more fulfilling jobs that I've ever had. College students bring an energizing passion for life, faith, and justice that is incredibly contagious. I can often see myself in their lives and stories. It was only 12 years ago that I graduated with my undergraduate degree. Now I've been married for over a decade and pregnant with our third child. I'm still cool enough to connect and old enough to counsel. It's this time of year that students stop by after class and ask if I "have some time to talk." My mind quickly scans over their academic performance, potential red flags I've noticed in attendance, behavior, or attitude, and agree to set aside some time to see them. Sometimes their concerns are about mental health as they know I am also a mental health therapist. I assess them for safety, affirm them for coming forward, and pass them along to a competent, licensed clinician. Bu...
We can't go through life without being faced with needing to help our neighbor, friend, or family member. It's hard to know what to do. With a background in Social Work, I am sharing and exploring practical ways to love and serve those whom we care about.