We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Becky Andrews a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Becky thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s the kindest thing anyone has ever done for you?

There are so many acts of kindness that I have experienced in my life. As a new therapist, this moment of kindness and the friendship / mentorship following with her was pivotal. As I started my master’s degree in counseling, I was also losing my eyesight to Retinitis Pignentosa. This was key in my transition from a bachelor’s degree in business to pursuing a master’s degree in counseling. My family was extremely supportive however, as I interviewed for counseling programs, internships and then jobs I was met with rejection. I persevered, graduated with wonderful experiences and was so excited to begin my career. I spoke with a potential employer over the phone with such a positive experience. As I entered his office with my guide dog to complete the hire details, his tone changed and suddenly he did not have a position available for me. I was so discouraged and wondered if I would indeed find an opportunity to make a difference as a licensed mental health counselor. As I returned home, my husband said let’s not give up, and he pulled out the phone book! As we explored options, he saw a mental health practice and a therapist’s picture. He encouraged me to call her. On the other end of the phone, I was met with such kindness. I told her who I was and that I was blind and had a guide dog and did she think I could be a therapist!? She took that information so matter of fact and indicated of course you can! Her kindness and belief in me made all the difference at that time and continues to be. Her friendship and kindness means the world to me and made such a positive impact at a key turning point in my life.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is Becky Andrews and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor – owner of Resilient Solutions, Inc an individual, marriage and family therapy practice with a team of 20 therapists founded in 2006. In 2016 I founded the nonprofit Daring Sisters to connect and empower women who are blind or low vision.

With a bachelors degree in Business and a young mom of two who was also losing her eyesight to Retinitis Pigmentosa I was searching to make a difference. I found that through helping others initially volunteer work and then as my career; I found my own vision and life work.

Resilient Solutions, Inc my work is focused as a therapist on companioning clients navigating life transitions, grief, loss, and trauma in their lives. Initially I sought to be trained in EMDR and was told it was not an option as a blind therapist. I returned in 2017 to again request and was met with inclusion and accommodations to specialize as an EMDR Therapist. As the owner of Resilient Solutions, Inc creating a safe, connecting space for my colleagues is top priority where they feel appreciated for the work they do.

Daring Sisters is my passion to connect and empower women who are blind. Loneliness and isolation can be prevalent for individuals navigating blindness. Daring Sisters begins with a retreat both in person and virtual are offered to bring connection, courage, and compassion to their stories.

I am most proud of the growth and opportunities that I have witnessed by my clients, colleagues, and sisters.

Personally, I love to start my day running with two friends who are the best and run as my guides. We have run ten marathons including NYC and Boston twice. I love tandem cycling with my husband of 40 years. We recently completed an amazing experience of cycling coast 2 coast on our tandem bike. I love spending time with my family which includes two adult children: Natalie – married to Chris; Kendall and two beautiful grandchildren.

My message offered through my counseling, book: Look up, move forward; and workbook of Cultivating Resilience is the empowering strengths we have within us.

I can be reached at www.resilientsolutionsinc.com; www.daringsisters.org; @becky__andrews

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

Grit / determination. I was met with many obstacles and I remained focused on my dream of making a difference and helping others.

Find your passion and your values. Stick to them.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Live like someone left the gate open became one of my mottos even when it felt like many doors were being shut as a blind woman. I had to find that belief in myself time and time again. One of the key memories that comes to mind was as a young mom – giving up my driver’s license. I sat on our porch feeling some discouragement on what was my next step. I recognized in that moment I had a choice. I pivoted and when the kids got up we took the bus for an adventure. On that day I began to see life as an adventure and recognized that Retinitis Pigmentosa had many opportunities for growth if I would open myself to that. It was a time of being stretched and recognizing that resilience is how am I going to be transformed from this experience. I chose to learn and grow and be better from it. I am so grateful for the many lessons learned, incredible people have met and all the opportunities that I have had each day.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.resilientsolutionsinc.com. ; www.daringsisters.org
• Instagram: @becky__andrews @daringsistersbvi @resilientsolutionsinc
• Facebook: Becky Andrews
• Linkedin: Becky Andrews

Image Credits
Outdoor photo from National Ability Center, Park City, Utah – Hayley Haws