Journey of the Lotus

Hi, I'm Stefanie, a recovering everything and Licensed Professional Counselor-Intern. In my life I experienced many of my own highs and lows, and I have started my journey to using my story to help others heal from mental illness, trauma, grief, and much more.

In a lot of ways I feel like I relate to the Lotus flower, the design I chose for this t-shirt. The Lotus flower is born and grows from the murk of dark waters only to open towards the sun. I see that as a symbol for my journey and struggle with depression and anxiety.

I have been given the opportunity to pursue training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy, one of the most effective treatment approaches to trauma in counseling. I am passionate about working with victims of trauma, and have found my greatest passion to be this population. Becoming trained in this therapy technique could help me to be best therapist I can possibly be, and help me to achieve my personal and professional goals. Unfortunately, the cost of the training is outside of my family's budget. I wanted to give fundraising a try to make this dream a reality, and also create an opportunity to benefit mental health awareness.