First of all, what is your official job title?
Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have a license with the state of Indiana.
What inspired you to pursue this career path?
I chose [it] because I had an uncle that had Schizophrenia and no one in my family could explain to me what was wrong with him; I was inspired to pursue the career path of a [therapist] after receiving very good therapy when I was younger.
Do you think we are moving in a helpful direction as far as care for mental illness goes?
I feel the industry is moving in a good direction with all the access to mental health services. I would like more emphasis to be placed on destigmatizing mental health services within minority communities.
What advice do you have for people entering the field?
My advice is for anyone in the therapy/counseling field to pay attention in class as much as you can and to engage in your practicums with all you have. You will need all the expertise you can [get]. I also would advise a person entering this field to go as far as you can. Get your Master’s degree and if possible, obtain a Psyd or Phd. You will be better compensated and may be able to open your own practice.
Describe your ideal work environment.
I love working in an office environment. I feel that coworkers who support each other and a supportive ownership are key in any workplace.
What’s one of the most interesting things that’s happened to you during your career?
One of the most interesting things that has happened to me during my career is [that] I worked with patients at a college campus for [approximately] 2 years. I loved every minute of it. Working with younger minds is very attractive. Most of the patients were looking for guidance and help with interpersonal relationships. I had a patient who presented with a pillow and did [not] let it go. We worked on the reasons why this person had the pillow and by the end of the school year the person no longer needed [it]. The professional satisfaction was tremendous and I knew I could be a semi-decent therapist at that point.
Are you satisfied with your career?
Yes, I am very happy I have selected this career and I do not regret any minute of it.
What’s a question you would ask yourself if you weren’t you?
I would ask myself how did I get where I am today. I feel a person’s life journey can be very insightful and may provide me with some helpful information for my life.
Additional interviewee info:
Juan-Estefan Vitela
MSW, LCSW
