Andrea Holyfield

Since 2009 I have incorporated vision boards into my therapeutic work with adults. I have found the process of creating and analyzing a vision board to be extremely beneficial in helping a client overcome obstacles to success. I know some people view vision boards as some sort of mystical, magical process, but the reason why they work is not exactly magic.

Instead of resolutions I encourage clients to establish goals. While resolutions are blanket statements delivered to the universe with no plan of action, no reference and no structure of measurement, SMART goals are Specific, Measureable, Attainable, Realistic and Time bound. Let's examine each component.

So I have a bold statement to make; so bold in fact that I am slightly hesitant about voicing my opinion on the matter. When I let these words trickle off my lips I find myself covering my mouth and looking around nervously to see if anyone caught them, but oh well. It’s time to come out of the closet with my beliefs. Who am I if I am not at least honest? Here we go… I think that I have one of the most important jobs in the world and I think EVERYONE should have a Career Counselor.

As a little girl when asked what I wanted to be when I grew up I always said a million things. I wanted to be a teacher and a doctor and a farmer and a cowgirl. My little brain did not have the capacity nor the desire to break down my dreams into separate plans called A, B, or C. I also lacked the ability or desire to see life as a linear pattern of experiences. My baby brain saw a teacher/doctor/farmer/cowgirl. There was no either or. I didn’t compromise or negotiate my existence. I just knew what made me smile and decided I wanted to smile all of the time.

I am a Career Counselor. I have a master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Georgia State University. I have successfully passed the NCC and completed years of supervision. Career Counseling is my specialty, but I have the same degree as a mental health counselor. Sometimes I’m a tad bit disappointment when my colleagues don’t understand or appreciate the intersections of our work. Please allow me to straighten up a few misconceptions.