Dr. Blandina Rose-willis

My counseling activities began with working with ex-offenders and ex-addicts who were seeking jobs. Clients’ issues ranged from job seeking skills to self-esteem issues, to appropriate job-related functions. I then moved on to university counseling, where my skills were applied to students who were struggling to effectively complete classes and move on. In some cases, career decisions changed or needed to be explored. I then moved to community college counseling, where issues included homelessness, prostitution, self-esteem, post-war trauma, career clarification, single parenthood, feelings of worthlessness, and many other areas. I had success with these clients, despite carrying a huge caseload and fighting burnout. Upon completion of my PhD, I became an administrator and used my counseling skills to supervise staff and departments, teach and model effective communication skills and problem-solve. In all of these roles, listening was my most effective skill. I strongly believe that every person deserves a counselor who will give them unconditional positive regard, the watchwords of client-centered counseling. Clients should also know that I believe in the healthy personality, that individuals, when provided support and options, will forge their way forward and solve their issues and continue with new life skills to use. I would consider myself a holistic person in that I believe that all aspects of the psyche and body work together — health, spirit, mental wellness, sexuality, exercise and self care all come together to create the person working to become. I believe we are all becoming. When I opened my counseling practice, I was focused on diversity consulting and community health and wellness. I believe that communities need counseling, too. I also had a small clientele, most of whom were experiencing some form of depression based on marital issues, a sense of being overwhelmed, and/or needing support in making some health and diet changes. In addition to individual counseling, I also conducted various forms of counseling groups. My group work is a strength over the course of my career. Most recently I conducted a workshop for teachers on LGBTQ legal and social issues, and found that a great deal of individual counseling could have been incorporated with that group going forward. So much to do, so little time.