ACA MEMBER BLOGS

Cultural Humility reaches across social and cultural bounds, impacting all clients from active help-seekers to vulnerable and marginalized people.

Mindfulness and indigenous wisdom invite us to become aware of our creative and destructive patterns and our need for connection with everything that exists. Without this attention, we can get lost in the conundrum of solving the problems our "sophisticated" mind creates.

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.

Counselors provide athletes with techniques to use on and off the field, or court to help them maintain their level of mental and physical performance.

In preparation for the final stage of certification as a Mindfulness Meditation Teacher, I am focusing on ways to teach Metta or lovingkindness and Mindfulness in easy accessible ways. Metta is the Pali word for unconditional kindness—friendliness and acceptance.

I’ve often heard that how someone treats you is more a reflection of the other person than it is on you. I strongly believe in the value of feedback and how it can help us see blind spots, but it is also essential to consider the source. The source may not be coming from a healthy place and may provide you with signs that they need help.

Are you a graduate student looking for ways to enhance your experience in the counseling field? Consider getting involved with a professional organization like the American Counseling Association (ACA)! Professional organizations can help students develop their professional identities, connect with peers and mentors, and create a sense of community. Opportunities for counseling students abound within ACA, and there are numerous ways to grow as a counselor, advocate, scholar, and professional.

Still, at least in private practice, I have learned that developing a niche and marketing to that niche brings the best outcomes for everyone.

Dr. Gladding’s words, kindness, and wisdom will live on through many counseling students, supervisees, fellow counselors, counselor educators, and colleagues who he influenced over the years.