Hello counselors!
I am an undergraduate with a clear career goal in mind to become a counselor.
I got into psychology ten years ago and have benefited myself so much that I can feel the progress almost every day.
However, in college I didn't have much confidence yet and wasn't sure of my direction, so I didn't choose to major in psychology. It was only after I started working that I became clearer about my goals through my current work and life situation.
I've read many of the questions and answers about this, and having been involved in psychology for several years now, I'm very clear about my values. I also understand that it takes nearly a decade of growth tests to get started, and know the trials and tribulations of being a good counselor, especially the financial pressures newcomers face.
My idea is to enter the field of work related to psychology and then learn step by step while expanding my social circle. I wonder what counselors would suggest?
Hello! Your current situation is actually the envy of many counselors. You have both a stable income and your own interests. You should know that to make money in counseling, you have to invest a lot of money upfront, and your income is very unstable.
I know a counselor who lectured to us when I was getting certified back in the day. He was sent to Wenchuan for support in 08, has his own studio, and is also a supervisor. He is quite famous in the area. But as far as I know, he didn't make a lot of money from counseling, and even let his family get certified, but he didn't get rich. Since he still has his main job, he's getting by.It seems like you have a clear goal and a good understanding of the current state of the industry and still love it. Let me share my opinion.
First, the income from your job is your bottom line, and with it, you will be more comfortable in following your dreams.
You can see your job as an enabler of your dreams rather than a stumbling block. This will harmonize the relationship and avoid hating your job. This is important.Second, make a plan to study psychology and counseling in your spare time. There are a lot of online courses available nowadays, so you don't have to take time off work or travel around.
Third, consistently output your knowledge of psychology, and use output to facilitate input while demonstrating your ability to do so.
Fourth, join relevant circles or link to industry bigwigs. For example, join and other platforms to learn from experts.
Fifth, when you can afford it, develop psychology into a lucrative side hustle, at which point you may have the backbone to confront your parents about your SOE job, and perhaps gain a new perspective on work.
Do both. Don't use your work as resistance, have goals, plans and actions in your hobby.
I wish you success!
I am a sometimes Buddhist and sometimes upwardly mobile counselor, and the world and I love you.