1-Reflect on the process of developing leadership level knowledge, skills, and practices in this competency. What has been especially impactful/meaningful/important to you personally and professionally? 

As I am writing these reflections close to four years after my doctoral journey started, I am becoming aware of how learning and growing are a constant in my life. I am noticing how, if I had written these papers today, I would have adopted a deeper relational approach, using theoretical frameworks I implement the most now, such as attachment theory, interpersonal neurobiology, and polyvagal theories. As I grow and develop as a person, counselor, supervisor, and counselor educator, I must be aware that those around me are growing and developing at their own pace, according to their own interests and talents. Thus, I want to be a leader who honors the pace of their growth the same way that my mentors, professors, and supervisors respected mine.

2-Describe an area of strength that you have developed while in the program in this area of competency. What is one way you plan to utilize this strength in your vocation?

I hold a full-time counseling practice, and with each hour I spend with my clients, the more I learn about the importance of connection and my being a carrier of hope. I believe I grew in learning to sit with clients in their pain without having the “righting reflex,” for I am not my clients’ savior. I also learned how neuroscience informs my counseling practice, which emphasizes our need for authentic connection and how the rewiring of our mind must occur experientially. Thus, instead of telling my clients things, I allow them to experience in our sacred space first, which then becomes a disconfirming experience of how they see and experience outside the counseling room.

3-Describe an area of challenge/growth opportunity in this area of competency. What is your plan to develop excellence in this area? 

I tend to accept each and every client who comes seeking help. This demonstrates an area for growth for me, for I believe I serve those who come with complex, developmental, or post-traumatic stress disorder better. I plan to communicate with my intake personnel more specifically so I can serve the clients who need me most and allow others who possess other areas of expertise to serve their clients best.

4- Reflect on how faith in Christ relates to this competency. 

As I sit and hold space for courageous souls in my counseling site, I am very aware of the common humanity we all share. My faith informs me that we all crave needs only found in God, and I implicitly pray for the Lover of all souls to overflow from me and touch each person in front of me. I believe all persons need to feel seen, heard, loved, safe, validated, and respected. All human beings need to exercise their autonomy and feel connected with others. Our brains are social organs; as our Imago Dei demonstrates, we are made with the craving to engage in deep and honest connections, and I aim to provide thus in my counseling practice. Further, I aim to be a conduit of God’s hope, for without hope, our hearts hurt (Proverbs 13:12).