Today we’d like to introduce you to Blanca.
Hi Blanca, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I am a native Texan who also spent many years in New Orleans, LA where, after high school, I attended Loyola University of the South. Upon graduation with a BS in Psychology, I returned to Texas to attend St. Mary’s University in San Antonio where, in 1989, I completed an MS in Clinical Psychology. I also earned a commission in the Army and served in the Army National Guard. My early work in mental health was at psychiatric hospitals in New Orleans & San Antonio. I began working as a therapist at Texas State University Counseling Center in 1989, seeing clients both individually and in group therapy. I carry a specialization in the field of substance use disorders, gaining certification in 1987 and then becoming a LCDC in this field in 1992. I obtained my license as an LPC in Texas in 1995 and Supervision status in 2013. In addition to duties as a therapist, I was also responsible for coordinating the Counseling Center’s Educational Programming & Outreach, organizing such events as Depression Symposiums, Eating Disorder Art Exhibit and several “DeStress Fests.” I participated in the training of the center’s doctoral interns and two peer education student organizations on campus. I have also taught undergraduate courses at Texas State. I have presented hundreds of programs and workshops to students, faculty and staff on topics including but not limited to stress management, depression, suicide, eating disorders and trauma. I have also enjoyed presenting at state, regional and national conferences. My work serving on a multitude of university committees and councils has enhanced my knowledge and interest in the impact of alcohol & other drugs in communities, serving veterans, celebrating diversity, social justice and equality issues. In December of 2016, I retired as Assistant Director of Educational Outreach at the Texas State University Counseling Center and opened a private practice in Spring of 2017 and enjoy working with adults. I continue to provide mental health training for a wide variety of organizations.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I don’t know that many people who had an absolutely smooth road. Challenges in my education had much to do with my lack of information about navigating the “higher education” system, despite my mother having a BA, as things were quite different “in her day.” A primary factor was the lack of finances, hence accepting a full Army ROTC scholarship for college. As I later figured out, I struggled with undiagnosed ADHD throughout my life. Some of these barriers created a lack of self-confidence that plagued me for many years. Gratefully, I encountered many who had great confidence in my intelligence and abilities and gave me a chance to shine! Specifically Dr. Greg Snodgrass, the Director of the Texas State Counseling Center for 33 years, and Ms. Meg Grant, MA, one of the Associate Directors of the center (at TxSt for 35 years).
I of course had difficult milestones as most people do, including, but definitely not limited to, the loss of my father when I was 38 years old. It is very hard in a paragraph to describe the struggles in one’s life, suffice it to say, I am stronger because of them and am eternally grateful for the many hands of support along the way. My husband of 37 years has always been a stalwart champion of everything I do, and my children (now adults) have been a primary motivation for all I do.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Please see the short bio provided for the first two questions. I am known for my compassion with clients, my energetic and engaging presentation style, and weaving a caring sense of humor into all I do. In regards to my professional career, I am most proud of being able to help so many people through their most difficult times, helping many to come back from the precipice of ending their lives.
I have long been a proponent of helping those struggling with the mental illness of addiction. I feel strongly about helping other professionals and lay people understand that it is not a weakness of character but a real, biological and psychological illness. I feel proud to have provided education to doctoral interns to expand their knowledge in this area and therefore be able to provide the much needed care for this population.
I also am very proud of my work in the area of diversity, equality, and inclusion for all humans.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Well, it has nothing to do with my work, but I am also a singer in a band and a duo.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.blancacounseling.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blancacounseling/
