When Leah and I reconnected this past year they had recently finished their MSW and completed the steps to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker! At the same time, they were feeling drained in their crisis-focused job and ready for a change, but equally determined not to repeat old patterns. Together, we explored what truly matters to them in their work and how they could create a career aligned with their values.
Leah shares, "Through meeting with Abbie, I learned that I wanted my next job to reflect the following values: community, creativity, autonomy, and beauty."
As we dug deeper and discussed career options, Leah mentioned an art-focused therapy center that sparked their curiosity. We talked through the possibilities, weighed the risks of change, and ultimately, Leah decided to pursue the opportunity and say “yes” to what was possible!
Leah shared, "As a child therapist at a group practice outpatient therapy center, I am now part of a community of other expressive arts therapists serving my neighbors. My new position allows me so much creativity and flexibility in my work and schedule, and I feel trusted to bring my skills and approaches to each therapeutic relationship without micromanagement. I also have access to individual supervision, group consultation, and lots of learning opportunities. Also, the center is cozy, beautiful, and warmly-lit (I have chronic migraines and prefer to work in person, so this is really important to me)!"
So much of the career process is understanding what you want and need, and then building the belief and confidence that you deserve to pursue it. I couldn’t be more excited for Leah in this next chapter; it’s been such an honor to walk alongside them!
"Working with Abbie was so incredibly helpful. She heard my desire for change and responded with questions and guidance that helped me figure out exactly what I wanted this change to reflect. Abbie’s values-based approach to career coaching resonates with my own social work background — She really knows how to work WITH your strengths to offer hope and new solutions. Abbie also reminded me that as someone with a disability, it’s okay to name what I need AND want from my career, even if it feels like “too much” (spoiler alert: it isn’t)." - Leah
