Let’s Talk Transitions: my Path from counselor to Mental Health Tech
Many years ago I made the transition from mental health professional to mental health writer and later, content strategist. Exactly how that happened is a long story for another day. But in the spirit of transparency, I’ll say that this was not a strategically planned pivot. Rather, it was a shift borne out of a deep knowing that I needed a change.
When I started my career my goal was simple. I wanted to work hard, do good, make a difference, and measure it.
But in between those deceptively simple steps, each multiplied by a staggering caseload, I forgot to make time to do good for myself. Fast forward a few years and I found myself in a burnout cycle, unable to be fully present in my work. After some serious reflection (spurred by some combination of self-awareness and bone-deep fatigue) I decided it was time to pursue a new path.
Taking The Leap
Make no mistake, when I decided to sell my house, give up my tenure, move out of state, and change jobs, I was terrified. My work as a counselor had been my vocation and a key part of my identity. I wanted to stay connected to my role as a helper and I wrestled with some guilt when I shifted to writing about mental health instead of offering direct support.
Was I a sell-out?
Did I give up too soon?
Am I actually helping anyone by writing?
It took some time (and some therapy) for me to see all the ways that my new career was allowing me to live my purpose. In addition to all the challenges that accompany tackling any new discipline, I had to learn to honor myself and see the beauty and possibility in this new chapter. Day in, day out I was still the same tenacious advocate for quality care I had always been. But now there was a screen between myself and the would-be users or clients whose lives I was hoping my work would touch.
Finding Purpose in Tech
Some days, I still wake up and I can’t believe where I landed. I get to work with mission-driven innovators and investors who are finding new ways to reduce barriers to mental health care for the folks that need it most. As a person who thrives on data, storytelling, and service to others, I know I’m exactly where I need to be.
Looking back, I’m still humbled by the memory of each person who trusted me enough to allow me into some of their most challenging and joyful moments. Their stories are with me as I advocate for truly evidence-based care and a patient-first perspective in the work I do each day. If this resonates with you, I encourage you to lean into your curiosity and consider how you might apply your gifts in a new setting.
Believe it or not, I’m often the only person on a product development or marketing team who has any firsthand experience delivering mental health support. So if you’re considering transitioning to the world of mental health tech, know that there couldn’t be a better time. The industry is booming and we need more passionate experts at the digital table.