Milestone Markers

Research paper (sleep study)
This study showcases my research prowess while maintaining focus over an extended period. I researched how cannabis affects university students’ quality of life and next-day functioning. The research allowed me to expand my knowledge of sleep psychology and explore how the different brain systems interact to achieve rejuvenating and restful sleep. This shows my research skills in analyzing the gathered information to form my conclusions. The research project further exemplifies my skills through the practice of critical analysis, by understanding the research processes involved in developing a thesis and providing evidence to analyze the claim made. I was able to formulate arguments while finding outside information to use as supporting evidence. These skills allow me to analyze information with a critical eye and understand how to use the information provided to support a desired outcome.

The image is a cartoon image of a man sleeping in a bed laying on his stomach. Above him is a foggy thought bubble with cannabis in it.
The image is on an 8X10 canvas with a series of 2 circles with one being smaller in the center. The center circle describes base emotions with specific colors. The outer circle uses the base emotions and shows how the emotions are rooted in and how other emotions that branch out like sun rays.

Emotion wheel painting
The emotional wheel painting is a form of expression that shows clients how emotions all stem from each other. This also reminds me to source my emotions and helps me to understand the root of my feelings better. By understanding my emotions I can better learn to modify my behaviors, which is the goal of therapy. Using personal behavioral changes as a checkpoint I can facilitate growth with my clients through examination of emotions. This also shows that I understand emotional responses on a scientific level and can relate them to my counseling practice. This bridge between science and practice is crucial for implementing proper counseling techniques in an informal counseling setting.

DSM-5 (psychology book)
The DSM-5 details all known mental health diagnoses as well as helpful information used to identify and diagnose clients. The DSM-5 represents all the collective knowledge I have gained over my pursuit of becoming a counselor. By having accurate information on hand I can quickly refer to it if questions arise. The DSM-5 is a staple in the mental health field and symbolizes your qualifications and commitment to the profession. As someone who has experienced both sides of the counseling symptom, the DSM-5 is an unspoken symbol of expertise. T relays to clients that you are knowledgeable about mental health processes without creating an intimidating atmosphere

The image is of the DSM-5 book which is a dark brownish purple color with white text saying "Diagnostic And Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders." The bottom half of the cover is taken up by a square with an ombre color shift from white to brownish purple. Below the square in white letter is "American Psychiatric Association"