Celebrate Bridget's Journey to becoming a Clinical Counselor

Join me in celebrating my sister Bridget's 50-something birthday AND graduation with an MS in Clinical Counseling!

If you know Bridget, you know what a fighter she is, and what a remarkable achievement this degree is as well. 

Over the years, she's worked multiple challenging, low-wage jobs simultaneously to raise three wonderful kids as a single mom (with an assist from a dear ex-husband). She's endured the death of a former partner/father of her youngest, unselfishly nursing him through to the end, and knows too well the struggle of choosing between home heating oil during a frigid New England winter and groceries for her family.

Against all odds, in her 40s, she bravely returned to classrooms full of 20-somethings to complete (and ace) her undergraduate studies.

Her passion for helping the underserved led her to pursue a Master's in Clinical Counseling, which she’ll officially wrap this summer when she completes her required internship hours. She’s juggled that program while working multiple jobs that scarcely covered living expenses, let alone tuition. Not one to be deterred, when she maxed out her student loans and her income from multiple jobs didn't cover both tuition AND rent, she moved into an off-the-grid yurt in New Hampshire, hauling her own water and (ahem) other "fluids" so she could afford to finish her degree. 

As a clinical counselor, Bridget's passion is helping troubled kids and teens, and she brings a unique well of empathy that springs from her own challenging adolescent years. I'm awestruck at how her training has transformed her approach to the world : while we’ve had our share of clashes over the years, I now find myself turning to her on the regular for advice on navigating the complexities of mid-life. True to her selfless nature, despite her long work hours and long commute, she’s moved in with our Mom (who recently lost her husband) for the summer to help her out.

My Sissy…she’s one of the most complex, tough, and brilliant people I know, and I’m not sure she truly knows how much I admire her. 

I’m so excited for this next chapter in her life, but her chosen profession won’t put much of a dent in those six-figure student loans, and meager internship salary doesn't exactly pay the rent. If you’re so moved to send a little birthday/graduation love her way and help her cover that last tuition bill/security deposit on an apartment in the Fall, you can do so here.

Happy birthday and congratulations on your graduation, Bridget! I couldn’t be more proud to call you my Sissy!