Red, White and Tulips

The first year we were here was tough on me. For the first time in my adult life, I was not working and was entirely financially dependent on another person. I hated it. I wasn’t ready for the feelings it would create. I looked for appropriate roles here, but without being fluent in Dutch, working in PR, communication, or marketing was basically impossible. I struggled with the fear that I would not be able to reenter my career when we returned to Houston. And the reality is, when we return to Houston, we will be doing it as empty-nesters, as our daughter will head to university shortly thereafter.

Despite volunteering and the plethora of additional family responsibilities I manage here, I was flailing. I was sad. So, this led me to a period of introspection.

My goals for the next stage of my career led me to counseling. After much research, I found the best fit was the Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program through Texas Tech Health Science Center. I was fortunate to gain admission and start in January. The program spans seven semesters, five of which can be completed entirely online. The last two, which will align with our return to Houston next summer, include in-clinic experience through a practicum and internship.

It is exciting to have a new purpose and something that is uniquely mine.