Hanna Cespedes

We are a few months into the new year and resolutions have probably either faded or have taken root. Regardless of whichever camp you fall into (we do not judge) I sure do hope that self-care was among one of the areas to focus on this new year. Yes, it is indeed possible to love yourself and care for others; that in and of itself does not constitute selfishness.

Being a professional student, counselor, trainee, and supervisor while also being supervised is definitely what can be referred to as role confusion! So many new therapists at the beginning of their careers find themselves wearing several different hats from the clinical setting all the way to academia.

Sure, counselors and therapists out there have always provided support, worked to raise awareness and advocated for mental health long before the pandemic. But this past year or so has been unique and mental health advocates and professionals have stepped up in big ways that could not have been anticipated.

Most of us at one point or another have faced challenges. If we were to be perfectly honest with one another and ourselves (who just happens to sometimes be the hardest person to be authentic with), we would admit that we have been through some type of trauma.

Life over the past year has looked quite different than years of previous. It is important to focus on how we have survived through this unprecedented time and highlight the strength and patience that you (yes, you reader!) have exhibited over the past year.