Sometimes Crazy Ideas Come True

Earlier this year I had a crazy idea.  I was really nervous to try it and put myself out there but decided to throw caution to the wind and try anyway.  I consider myself extremely lucky to have quite a few blog supporters and friends who know what I’m going through this year as I carry out my internship and complete my graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.  Well, I’m proud to announce that the end is near and I have about ONE MORE MONTH left in my therapy internship before moving on to the next chapter in my life.   I could say it’s flown by, but that would not be entirely true.  It’s had its ups and downs, its confidence-boosters and its humiliation, and its rewards and challenges, but I wouldn’t trade this experience for the world.  I feel more ready than ever to start pursuing this as my lifetime career, and you guys as my followers have definitely helped contribute to that.

I am still completely floored by how many showed their generosity and support by contributing to my play therapy wishlist over the past year.  I have reached so many kids through these gifts and for that I am truly grateful.  I was able to witness children diagnosed with ADHD sit and concentrate on removing a peg from Jenga while teaching them why it’s important.  I have communicated with small children through puppets and animal figures while they tell me about their cultural traditions.  I have utilized books about feelings and tricky situations to show kids they’re not alone and there is hope.  I have used simple art supplies like crayons and colored pencils to create metaphors for anxiety and self-esteem, as well as to calm little kids’ nerves during an initial session.   I hope I’m driving the point home here that every single gift has been put to good use and helped me have an impact on a child or family in need. 

Seeing this colorful shelf of fun brightens every day

After this post I won’t be promoting the wishlist as a form of contributions anymore.  I have applied to several full time therapist positions and will (fingers crossed) soon have the opportunity to be compensated for my time in the therapy room rather than working for free.  I hope to have the means to start purchasing my own play toys, as well as the time to write here a little more regularly.  I really miss giving this little blog the attention it deserves and hopefully you’ll be seeing and reading more here soon.  If you’d like to contribute in the meantime, click this link and see if there is anything you’d like to send me to enhance my work with children.  To those who have already contributed, “thank you” is not sufficient enough to express my gratefulness.   You’re the best, and I mean that from the bottom of my heart.

Until next time! ~C