My Journey from Teaching to Psychotherapy and Back Again

When I first embarked on my professional career, I found myself in the world of academia, teaching at one of the California State Universities. It was a fulfilling experience, but as time went on, I felt the need to expand my skill set and explore new avenues. That's when I made the decision to delve into the field of psychology.

Returning to school to study psychology was an exciting and challenging endeavor. I immersed myself in the subject, eager to learn and grow. The more I delved into the intricacies of the human mind, the more fascinated I became. It was during this time that I realized my true calling lay in helping others through psychotherapy.

For over twenty years, I dedicated myself to the practice of psychotherapy. Each day brought a new set of challenges and rewards. As a psychotherapist, I had the privilege of sitting with clients from all walks of life, listening to their stories, and guiding them on their journey towards healing and self-discovery.

On a typical day in my office, I would see around six patients. Each session lasted anywhere from an hour to two hours, depending on the needs of the individual. It was important to create a safe and comfortable space for my clients, allowing them to open up and share their deepest thoughts and emotions.

One aspect of being a psychotherapist that often goes unnoticed is the financial aspect. While it may not be the primary motivation for entering the field, it is an important consideration. As a private practitioner, I charged my clients between one hundred to two hundred dollars per hour. This fee structure allowed me to sustain my practice and continue providing quality care to those in need.

However, after two decades of practicing psychotherapy, I began to feel a sense of fulfillment in other areas of my life. The desire to explore new opportunities and challenge myself further led me to transition into administrative roles within the field of psychology.

Returning to teaching felt like a natural progression for me. It allowed me to share my knowledge and experiences with the next generation of aspiring psychologists. The classroom became my platform for inspiring and shaping the minds of eager students, much like my own journey had been influenced by my mentors.

Today, I find myself in a unique position where I can draw upon my experiences as both a psychotherapist and a teacher. The insights gained from years of working with clients inform my approach in the classroom, enriching the learning experience for my students.

While my journey may have taken unexpected turns, I am grateful for each step along the way. Teaching and psychotherapy have both played integral roles in shaping the person I am today. They have allowed me to touch the lives of others and make a positive impact in my own small way.

As I reflect on my career, I am reminded of the ever-evolving nature of life. We must be open to new possibilities, willing to embrace change, and constantly seek growth. It is through these experiences that we find our true purpose and make meaningful contributions to the world around us.