Designed to serve as a foundational guide for counselors in training, The Making of a Mental Health Professional: Inspirational and Motivational Stories of Challenges, Victories, and Wisdom offers readers a dynamic combination of theoretical frameworks and personal narratives from seasoned professionals.
The book is structured around the principles of Snyder's Hope Theory and Niles' Hope-Action Theory, alongside the power of Narrative Theory, to create a comprehensive understanding of the vocational journey in mental health counseling. Topics addressed include finding one's calling, mentorship, faith and spirituality, resilience and overcoming challenges, wisdom and wellness, and impostor syndrome. Each section features stories that illustrate the intricacies of becoming a mental health professional, coupled with exercises designed to foster self-reflection and skill development.
The Making of a Mental Health Professional is ideal for undergraduate and graduate courses in counseling, psychology, and related fields. The stories and theoretical underpinnings offer students both encouragement and practical strategies for personal and professional advancement.
Cyrus R. Williams, III earned his Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision with an emphasis in mental health counseling from the University of Florida and his Ed.S. in higher education leadership from the University of Florida. He has worked in higher education for over 20 years in student services and as a faculty member. Dr. Williams is a full professor at Regent University and a licensed mental health counselor in Virginia and Florida.
Tricia M. Mikolon earned her Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision from Regent University. She is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and holds an LPC in Pennsylvania and is a Board Certified Telebehavioral Health Provider. Dr. Mikolon is an associate professor who teaches online in the Counseling Department at the University of the Cumberlands.
