When I first started my internship at Aspire Psychological Services, I did not know what to expect. While my past work experience has been in human services and providing supports to vulnerable populations involved with the criminal justice system, I had never provided formal counselling services. I was excited to begin practicing therapy and being a source of support for people accessing my services.

Over the last 7 months, I have learned so much and am so grateful to all of my clients who have invited me on their journeys with them. I loved becoming part of the Aspire team, taking part in various groups in the community, and having the opportunity to offer services through private counselling sessions and psychoeducational groups at schools in Parkland County. I had not worked with children prior to my internship and I was so impressed with their knowledge and ability to apply what they learned to their daily lives. I was lucky to meet such intelligent and intuitive young people through my work. In regard to my clients in private practice, I cannot say enough about how much I have learned from each one of them and how much they inspire me. It takes great strength to sit on a couch with someone who is initially a stranger and share your deepest thoughts and feelings. I was overwhelmed by the trust that my clients invested in me and the therapy process. I would like to thank my clients for their trust and allowing me to learn alongside them. This experience would not have been possible without them.

For any future interns reading this post, I would say take advantage of as many opportunities to learn and practice as you can. These experiences are invaluable and provide great learning opportunities that are not provided in the school setting. I also recommend being vulnerable and open to making mistakes. It is inevitable as new therapists and as human beings that we will make mistakes. These mistakes offer great insights and allow us to grow in ways that would not otherwise be possible. Be open and compassionate toward yourself!

To Dawn, Vanessa, Sheila, Melodie and Shannon, thank you for all of your support, guidance, and wisdom over the course of my internship. You created such a welcome and warm environment for me to begin my career as a therapist. To my clients, thank you for being you and being vulnerable; each of you has taught me so much. Without you I would not be where I am or who I am as a therapist today.

Forever grateful,

Erika

Psychology Intern 2019-2020