Long before I began my graduate education, I happened to meet an LPN who worked in a hospital psychiatric unit. Since I was contemplating a career in psychology, I asked her what her job was like. She assured me that she found her work satisfying. After thinking a moment, she added, “The longer I work here, the more I realize that if I had faced the same problems that these patients have, I’d be exactly where they are.”

That conversation happened 25 years ago. I think of her and her insight often. She helped shape my understanding of mental health and the individuals who would come through my door.  We are, all of us, far more alike than we are different. Remembering that is a gift we give ourselves and those around us.