AngelaWhereattMy name is Angela Whereatt, MSW, LSW, and an alumnus of the Direct program class of 2016. I am currently working as a Unit Therapist at Options Behavioral Health System, which is an inpatient facility. I have been a social worker for a little over five years. Before becoming a social worker, I worked as a legal secretary. During this time, my husband was deployed with the United States Marine Corps. When he returned from deployments, I saw firsthand how some of his friends and fellow Marines were struggling to adjust back to civilian life. At that point, I decided I wanted to make a career change. My desire to one day help not only Veterans but all people who were going through life struggles brought me to social work.

Now as a Unit Therapist, I work with people who are struggling with psychosis, mania, or are suicidal. I work with these individuals on the issues that specifically brought them into our inpatient facility by helping them process through longer-term issues and assist them in identifying coping skills. In the past I have worked as a school-based therapist, specializing in helping children with severe emotional needs. I have worked with survivors of domestic abuse as well as children who have survived physical, emotional, and/or sexual abuse. I have been able to empower women in leaving abusive relationships while assisting them in creating comprehensive safety plans. I have helped homeless people find resources and supported children to find strategies that allow them to interact better with their peers. I love that I have been able to help individuals who have been struggling to gain mental wellness. Even on the tough days, knowing that I am serving others is a benefit. I love teaching interns.

Being able to support and train them while sharing my knowledge and passion for social work is internally rewarding for me. Additionally, becoming trained in EMDR has been another accomplishment along with building a network of diverse resources/people. One of the biggest challenges in social work is the stigma surrounding mental illness. We have come a long way but still have a long way to go before seeking mental health services as openly accepted in our culture. Always remember, never stop believing in yourself or your ability to help others. Write down good moments so you can reflect on them on the bad days. Take care of yourself, you cannot pour from an empty cup.

Favorite Quote:

Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” – Albus Dumbledore/J.K. Rowling