June Rising Star: Juan Rodriguez, LCSW

Uwill’s Monthly Rising Star is a new program that acknowledges one counselor every month who has “shined bright” in their first year at Uwill.

Congratulations Juan Rodriguez, LCSW! Since joining the Uwill team, Juan has completed over 100 sessions across California.

Check out our interview with Juan to learn more about his desire to help students, learning how everyone processes at different speeds, and his advice for students making a transition during the summer.

Can you illustrate the importance of a student being able to access a platform like Uwill? 
There are students from all different backgrounds. Some are first generation, others are new to therapy in general. Uwill does an incredible job in simplifying the process and helping students take control of their mental health. 

What aspect of your work do you enjoy the most? 
There are different aspects that I enjoy from my work. To be able to be there for someone during their difficult times is an incredible feeling. Providing support, introducing coping skills. and just a new perspective is also a big piece. I also enjoy the shift and the growth that I see from the first session that I have with students to the last session. To be able to be a part of that healing process and that growth process is great. 

What is the most important lesson that you’ve learned through your work? 
The most important lesson that I’ve learned has been that we all process things differently. We all heal differently at different speeds with different types of approaches and that’s perfectly fine. I think that that’s why it’s essential to tailor therapy treatment plans to the individual so we have to meet the student where they’re at in their healing journey. 

What was it that first attracted you to working with Uwill?
What first attracted me to Uwill is the opportunity to work with students. I was one myself for many years and I recognize the importance of having accessible mental health services. There’s a saying that I really like: “Be the person that you needed when you were younger.” And I am happy to be in a role where I can be that person for the students. 

What impact has Uwill had on you as a professional?
Uwill has had a great impact on me as a professional with all the different resources Uwill has available. It has helped me to keep growing and learning how to better help individuals from all different types of backgrounds through all the resources that they have available. 

Would you recommend working with Uwill to a colleague?
I would absolutely recommend colleagues to work with Uwill. It’s an amazing company. Being able to help students as they navigate their journey and it’s an incredible feeling. Uwill does a great job in supporting the providers and I’ve always had a positive experience when reaching out to either resources or clinical supervision or whatever it might be. 

Summer is here. Do you have any advice for students who are adjusting to new routines or being home from school?
Transitions can be difficult. My advice would be to do their best and remain present and enjoy their summer. Sometimes this could be difficult due to having to work, family dynamics, and all different types of issues. I hope that they continue to utilize the coping skills, grounding skills, and all different types of skills that they’ve learned through therapy when navigating these difficulties, especially being away. I know that it’s different for everyone so maybe once they’re home maybe they don’t have access to mental health services. Validating that change is hard is important.

To learn more about becoming a counselor with Uwill, click on the link below.

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