Meet Grace White– A Graduate Intern with CCD
· Team Spotlight · By The CCD Clinical Team · Clinically reviewed by Lisa R. Savage, LCSW
What inspired you to pursue a career in mental health, and how has your journey shaped your perspective on the field? Throughout my life, I’ve become increasingly aware of the countless ways people can struggle, as well as the importance of having effective support. I was inspired to pursue social work, specifically […]
Graduate Intern
What inspired you to pursue a career in mental health, and how has your journey shaped your perspective on the field?
Throughout my life, I’ve become increasingly aware of the countless ways people can struggle, as well as the importance of having effective support. I was inspired to pursue social work, specifically mental health counseling, by a friend who shared their experience in the field. My education and field experience have given me a deeper understanding of how financial, physical, emotional, and social pressures affect those around me. I have also gained a better perspective on the importance of utilizing micro- and macro-level resources to ensure the best care.
What is one area of mental health you are particularly passionate about, and how do you hope to make a difference in this space?
I am especially passionate about LGBTQ+ mental health. Between my lived experience and close relationships with other LGBTQ+ people, this is an area I wish to focus on throughout my career. I hope to provide safety, education, and resources to LGBTQ+ youth while working to promote better access to healthcare and remove barriers to services.
Can you share a specific skill or approach you’ve learned in your studies that you feel will positively impact your future practice?
I have found the person-in-environment approach especially helpful for understanding the circumstances of a person’s life. Having a more complete perspective of how someone’s environment and relationships affect their life is invaluable to providing informed care. This approach will benefit my future practice by ensuring I have the necessary context to understand my clients’ situations, supports, and needs.
What do you find most rewarding about studying mental health, and how do you plan to carry that motivation into your professional career?
The most rewarding part of studying mental health is the clarity it has provided me. Studying mental health has helped me treat myself and others with genuine empathy rather than pity. The knowledge and experience I’ve gained in my studies have driven me to be aware of my own perceptions and challenge them when they are misguided. The motivation to treat myself and others with empathy will be invaluable to ensuring I behave ethically and respectfully in my professional career, as well as my life outside.
How do you see your education and training helping you address the unique needs of diverse communities?
My education has made me aware that it is not enough to be culturally competent. Being humble and seeking the guidance of community leaders is essential to providing effective care in diverse communities. During my training, I have been fortunate to meet and work with community leaders who have given me valuable advice which I will carry