We recently connected with Stephanie Rasel, LCSW, BCBA, ITDS and have shared our conversation below.
Stephanie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. If you had a defining moment that you feel really changed the trajectory of your career, we’d love to hear the story and details.
I began my career as an Exceptional Student Education (ESE) teacher in a center school for students with emotional and behavioral challenges. During that time I had the pleasure of working with several amazing students who taught me so much more than any professor or textbook. Day after day, with the help of an entire educational team, I witnessed students improve behaviorally and emotionally. One student would walk in cursing and throwing chairs, then weeks (sometimes months) later, after a plethora of interventions and services from a team of professionals, that same student would be sitting at a desk completing classwork while smiling. Students who were angry or anxious would slowly become aware of their emotions and learn coping strategies that lead to behavior change and academic improvements. It was amazing to not only witness that change, but be a part of the team that inspired it.
I quickly learned that I wanted to explore other ways of helping students overcome their emotional challenges and went on to become a Behavior Analyst and Psychotherapist.
Stephanie, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Starting out in the field of education gave me so much opportunity. After earning my graduate degree and becoming a Behavior Analyst and Psychotherapist, I decided to start a private practice working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have enjoyed helping my clients and learning from them. As part of my private practice, I currently run Reset Life Coaching and Reset Therapy Group. Two companies focused on improving the lives of others in different ways. Coaching helps those looking to achieve professional and personal growth, while therapy focuses on specific emotional or behavioral patterns that may negatively impact a person’s life. I am also in the process of expanding part of my private practice to specifically help adults with high functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Social Communication Disorder (SCD). I find that there are a variety of services available for children or adolescents impacted by ASD or SCD, but limited options for adults. I hope to help bridge that gap and provide a resource for those who need it.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
I was enjoying every second of my career. Working long hours, seeing clients back to back, and getting home at 9PM every night. I was beyond excited when my husband and I found out we were expecting our now three year old daughter. I had to take time off from my beloved career to be the mom I always wanted. It is a time that I continue to cherish and feel so grateful for.
If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?
There is zero doubt in my mind that I was meant to be in the career I chose. If I had to go back in time, I would choose to do the exact same thing and have the same experiences because positive or negative, they are part of what made me who I am today.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Noiseworks Media