It seems to be a pattern that every year around this time I consider the option of going back to school and getting my LPC (licensure for professional counseling). Without fail, as I come to question the time, and most definitely the cost, it would take to do so I am validated in what I am doing NOW in peer support.

I have been invited to speak to a group of therapists that work out of the Memorial Houston area, who are all specialized in either childhood trauma or trauma therapy. They are having a ‘continuing education’ day and have asked me to share not only my own story but my experiences in peer support and what we are doing at Hopeful Hearts Ministry. Before the program, which is scheduled for next Friday, I met with three of the therapists to go over the format and pinpoint the main ‘take away’.

Our time together proved already educational for me as conversation immediately broke out in what a therapist would ‘assume’ or ‘work toward’ and what their client is ‘really thinking or not saying’. At the end of our gathering one of the therapists looked at me and said, “Shannon, what you are doing is so important. What you and your organization offers is not something we, as therapists, can give to our clients. You can walk with them in their pain because you know it. You validate them in a way we are not able and that is essential in their healing.”

Not that I needed the validation but it sure was welcomed and received with great blessing. From day one I have been told by therapists that if I were to get my LPC it would change the dynamic of what our mission is… and that is not something I care to do.

God started this ministry for a reason. I’m happy we are becoming, and recognized, as an integral part of the healing process.

Blessings

Shannon

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