Author - Xie Linghui
I am a Licensed Professional Psychotherapist Intern (LPCA, supervised by Ms. Lin Ninghua, LPCS) and also hold a license as a Professional School Counselor. Throughout my career, I transitioned from a school teacher to a professional psychotherapist, dedicated to helping adolescents overcome psychological challenges and promote their mental health. Throughout this journey, I have gained a deep understanding of the complexities of adolescent psychological development and am able to support adolescents and their families through professional counseling techniques and therapeutic models.
From school teacher to school counselor
Early in my career, I worked as a school teacher. During this experience, I developed deep connections with students and gradually became aware of the psychological challenges they face both academically and in life. As a teacher, I felt strongly that a student's mental health directly impacted their academic achievement and personal growth. Many students exhibited anxiety, depression, or behavioral issues in the classroom, and these issues often went unaddressed. This led me to consider how I could better help them cope with their emotional and mental health challenges. I began studying psychology and counseling techniques in my spare time and attending professional workshops, where I discovered my passion for supporting adolescents in their mental health. Ultimately, I decided to transition my career to counseling to provide more professional support to students.
Following God's Calling, Embarking on the Path of Professional Psychotherapy
After careful consideration, I sensed God's calling to pursue a career in psychotherapy. This was driven not only by my interest in adolescent mental health but also by my recognition of my potential within this field. This decision radically altered my career trajectory and laid a solid foundation for my subsequent achievements. To fulfill this calling, I decided to pursue a license as a professional school counselor. After years of study, I successfully passed the professional exam and gained a deep understanding of psychological theory and professional counseling techniques, paving the way for my future career.
A deep understanding of adolescent psychology
After becoming a licensed professional school counselor, I focused on adolescent mental health. This stage is crucial for psychological development, as adolescents face challenges such as identity struggles, academic pressures, and social difficulties. Understanding that adolescents' psychological needs differ from those of adults, I designed diverse counseling programs, utilizing methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and play therapy to help them understand and process their emotions and effectively cope with external challenges. With a deeper understanding of adolescent mental health needs, I decided to further expand my professional skills and transition to a licensed professional psychotherapist intern, enabling me to provide a wider range of support.
Professional advice on parenting
In addition to providing direct psychological counseling to adolescents, I also prioritize the role of parents in their mental health. Often, adolescents' psychological distress is closely linked to their family environment and parent-child relationships. I've conducted numerous parenting workshops to help parents understand how to effectively communicate with their adolescents, manage their emotional needs, and establish healthy family norms. Combining psychological knowledge with practical experience, I use case studies and scenario simulations to help parents improve their parenting skills and address their concerns about parenting.
Creating a supportive environment to foster positive change
During my training as a professional psychotherapist, I've always believed that creating a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment is crucial for adolescents' psychological development. In my counseling, I emphasize empathy and professionalism, helping adolescents navigate their inner struggles and find effective coping strategies. I create a judgment-free, pressure-free space where clients can freely express their feelings and learn practical skills like emotion management and stress relief, helping them maintain their mental health during challenging times.
Summary
My career journey has been a transformation from a schoolteacher to a professional psychotherapist. This journey not only reflects my commitment to the mental health of adolescents but also reflects my fulfillment of God's calling to become a psychotherapist dedicated to helping others and fostering positive change. Through my work, I have helped countless young people regain their confidence and build a strong foundation for their mental health. I remain committed to my professional mission and remain true to my commitment to this field.