Veronica Herrera

Aspiring Counseling Practicum Student with foundational experience in providing empathetic support and guidance. Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to fostering a supportive environment. Equipped with a relevant educational background and practical skills to effectively assist in counseling sessions and contribute to a team-oriented setting. Eager to apply knowledge and gain hands-on experience in a dynamic counseling setting.

American Counseling Association, Active Member, (2025-Present)

• Department of Human Services Child Abuse History Clearance
• Pennsylvania State Police Request for Criminal Records Check
• Federal Criminal History Record Information (CHRI)

Pennsylvania Counseling Services in Gettysburg is an outpatient community mental health clinic that offers mental health and substance abuse services to individuals of all ages and families. As a graduate student, I can participate in individual therapy, group counseling, telehealth services, and professional activities. Intern supervision is provided by qualified clinicians within PCS, depending on your placement location. Supervision occurs weekly for one hour, one-on-one. The clients I will work with include adults and adolescents experiencing varying levels of mental health challenges. Common issues treated are, but not limited to, mental health concerns and adverse experiences such as trauma, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and body image issues. Treatment options at PCS include outpatient individual counseling, group therapy for substance use disorders (drug and alcohol), and specialized services like referrals for psychiatric evaluations. As an intern, I am integrated into their team through professional activities, including bi-weekly treatment team meetings, collaboration with community partners (Lunch and Learns), and monthly training sessions available across all PCS locations.

The counseling process involves a hope- and strength-based collaboration where the counselor is present and empathetic to the client. The counselor is not acting as an expert but rather as a listener for their client. Throughout the therapeutic relationship, the client is heard, seen, empowered, and understood. The counselor recognizes that people face difficult life events and circumstances that can lead to negative thinking and attitudes, which may influence their behavior and create a cycle of rumination and life stressors if left unaddressed. Change can happen when clients focus on what they can control and learn to let go of what is out of their power. Often, we believe we can never grow or that change is impossible. I believe that through a strength-based and empathetic therapeutic relationship, personal change can occur, helping us grow and build resilience. Our negative thoughts and attitudes do not define us. In my current and future work with clients, I will incorporate CBT with a strength-based approach. CBT aligns with my values and counseling style because of its proven effectiveness with a wide range of individuals I aim to serve. It helps individuals recognize negative or harmful thought patterns and replace them with clearer, less distressing ones. I value acceptance, equality, and adaptability, among other principles, which give me confidence in my ability to provide the best care. Although CBT mainly focuses on the present, I also want to address the past when necessary, as many past life events influence our current mindset. Uncovering problems from the past can often reveal the roots of unwanted thoughts and beliefs. As a counselor, I want to be active and engaged with my clients, encouraging them to open up and work toward their goals. Since CBT is time-limited, I believe assigning homework is essential, especially for clients who lack support outside therapy. Lastly, I understand that what works for one client may not work for another, even if they share similar issues. Each person is unique, and tailoring techniques to each individual is more beneficial in the long run. I also plan to incorporate a strength-based approach because of the diversity among clients. Being culturally sensitive and competent is crucial in counseling. It is important to identify the client's core beliefs and clarify any cultural expectations we both may have.