I have just completed two weeks at my new practicum site. I love every aspect of being a therapist. People always ask me how I am able to hear about children's trauma. Honestly, I would rather do this than any other career. Yes, it is difficult to hear these heart-breaking stories, but I have to realize that I make a positive impact on these lives.

I find it easier to work with children rather than adults, because they are more open to change than adults. The short lives that they have lived has been so tainted with abuse, trauma, substance abuse, neglect and abandonment (through no fault of their own). My ultimate career goal is to be a positive individual in their lives.

I felt nervous and uneasy the first week of practicum, but staff and children did a wonderful job of welcoming my presence. We were asked to read our client's files in order to get to know their history, prior to actually working with them in therapy. There was one child who stood out the most. He had such an unfortunate history of abuse, no family and was a foster child. After meeting him, I wanted to adopt him myself. He was so open to having a positive individual in his life. I assumed that he might be an unhappy child, but he smiled and asked me to help him play a game. Everyday after that initial meeting, I felt a genuine appreciation for what little he had in his life.

I thought about my own life and all of the little things that I was appreciative of. The simple things, such as clothes, supportive friends & family, a home and even a plan for my future are what these children lacked. It broke my heart to hear that some of the children told me that that their future would be in prison. Although, I tried to rationalize it, this sad projection of their lives was what they expected according to their experiences. I desire deeply to change their minds about the positive aspects the world offers. I never want to tell a child that they are limited; rather the possibilities of where their lives lead them are limitless.

I am thankful for the opportunities that have knocked on my door and will do anything I can to answer all calls.

Wish me luck this year!