Chris Allen

Sometimes I get lazy, discouraged, or pulled towards work and family priorities, and I am consistently suffering from what I like to call a loss of the Counselor’s mindset. If you are familiar with my posts, of which there haven’t been many recently, you will notice that I am passionate about starting a Veteran and Family Counseling Ranch. Please take a look at my blogs titled: “Something Different", the “So What Factor 1-3", and "Rolling out the Model” if you’re interested. These blogs are lengthy but will be worth your read.

The following is a handwritten note placed on the Smith’s front door by their Trip Planning Facilitator (TPF), Mel: Jim and Fran, I hope you guys have had a great first week at the V&B and wish you both the best during your second week here. I know that this past week was difficult at times for the both of you, but I have the privilege of seeing you all every day, and I know that God has great plans for you guys. As your second week begins, I encourage you both to regularly participate in a group alone and a group together. Kamiah tells me that you are probably going to join Izzie’s Cooking group, and I think that’s a great idea. The two of you will enjoy getting to know her. I’m not sure if you are aware, but some groups have post activity follow up sessions that you will greatly benefit from. I encourage you to participate if you have the time and energy. Sincerely, Mel

Note: Designated Staff is on call for emergencies and there are no formal individual or group sessions scheduled. Why you might ask? Well for starters, everyone needs a break from work, especially the Vine and Branch Staff. In your individual practices, are you tempted not to take a day off because you feel the pressure to meet the “bottom line?”Are you better Counselors when you do not take time off?

For those of you who have followed my blog for the past several months, you've probably noticed that my postings have drastically decreased lately. It's fair to say that you'd be right, and there are a few good reasons. For those of you that do not know, Jen and I returned back to Active Duty service with the Army a little over a month ago. As a family, we are in the middle of transitioning into the Army after working within the civilian sector.

Day 6- At The Vine & Branch (for returning soldiers and their families) 0600 Fishing trip with Dave “Jim, Mark, Terry, Anthony, this is Kate, and she’s one of our Best Practice Volunteers. Kate is a Road Construction Forman out of Portland with Benson Group. And….she says that she can ‘out fish’ all of you.” “Whatever Dave! Nice to meet you all.”