October Hero of the Month: Alexandra Taylor, MSW, LCSW

Every month, we spotlight a counselor who has gone above and beyond for Uwill as our Hero of the Month. This month, we are delighted to recognize Alexandra Taylor, MSW, LCSW as Uwill’s Monthly Hero. 

Since joining the Uwill team in September 2023, Alexandra has always gone above and beyond for Uwill. In that time, she’s had over 500 appointments, impacting the lives of students across Delaware and New Jersey, all with a very high feedback rating. 

Check out our interview with Alexandra and learn more about how Uwill has made her more enthusiastic about her work, how it complements her schedule as a stay-at-home mom, and tips for students returning home for the holidays.

What excites you the most about working with Uwill?
Uwill has taken me from liking what I do to absolutely loving what I do. I have worked with all age populations throughout my career and it wasn’t until I joined the Uwill team that I was able to work specifically with the college-aged individuals. Without a doubt my favorite population I have ever worked with. Many are negotiating one of life’s biggest transitions, evolving from adolescence to young adulthood which on its own can be overwhelming. Others may find themselves trying to manage adjusting to new social environments, responsibilities, independence, academic stress, family conflict, and/or depression/anxiety to name a few. While college can be full of exciting new experiences, many are often trying to navigate a change in independence that is unfamiliar to them. As a therapist, being a part of this process makes me feel as though I am truly making a difference. I look forward to working with my students everyday and cannot imagine doing anything else. 

Can you illustrate the importance of a student being able to access a platform like Uwill?
Being a college student is full of so many new transitions and experiences that most of them have never had to face before. Good and bad. You are in a state of new found autonomy, and while many are excited for the freedom that college unlocks, it often comes with feelings of uncertainly, self-doubt, fear, loneliness, and anxiety. That’s where Uwill comes in. Having quick and easy access to therapy on a platform that is extremely user friendly makes all the difference. Think about how often we procrastinate making appointments because we have to make an uncomfortable phone call, and then have to wait days, weeks or even months to see a provider. With the students having access to this free virtual resource, it takes all of that out. Access to a provider is fast (same day if needed ) and they have the ability to be anywhere, in their room, in a study lounge, in their car, even curled up in their bed, at any time of day and still get the help/support they need, in only 30 minutes. All I can say is, I wish I had this when I was in college!

What aspect of your work would you say you enjoy the most?
There are so many but if I had to choose one, I would say it is having the privilege of being entrusted with someone’s most sensitive thoughts and feelings. Seeking therapy takes bravery. The decision to talk to a therapist is an extremely vulnerable step for someone to make, and to be a part of that, is an absolute honor.  I get to support someone in a time they feel they need it the most and I will never take that for granted. I am so proud of everyone I work with and will continue to be humbled as I support them in working on themselves and empowering them to work towards their personal goals.

 What was it that first attracted you to working with Uwill?
After making the decision to pause my career to be a stay-at-home mom, I stumbled upon Uwill by accident. I was instantly sold after my first interview. I could help provide for my family and have the flexibility to do both things that I am very passionate about; being a SAHM and helping others through my work.

What impact has Uwill had on you as a professional?
Uwill has given me the opportunity to continue working and growing as a professional in my field. This is supported through offering CEU opportunities, clinical support, multiple state licensure stipends, and milestone incentives. I love that Uwill values their therapists and is quick to offer opportunities to help with professional development.

 
What advice do you have for students who may be returning home for Thanksgiving that may be experiencing struggles at home?
Returning home for the holidays can be a mixed experience, especially if you are dealing with struggles at home. Thanksgiving should ideally be a time of connection but for some it brings feelings of anxiety and stress. Remember it is okay to address your own situation authentically. There are several ways a student may choose to navigate returning home. Setting boundaries/intentions is often an effective method – think about your own boundaries and consider calmly communicating them to family members to help create a more comfortable environment. If possible, consider allowing open discussion or constructive dialogues to process any feelings you or your family members may have. For those who feel tensions run especially high, I would recommend utilizing grounding techniques like mindfulness or deep breathing exercises to help alleviate feeling overwhelmed or anxious. Having an exit strategy or safety plan in place may also help foster a sense of control or safety when returning home. Another tool to consider is making arrangements for self-care. Make time for yourself.  Prioritize activities that help you relax and recharge. Lastly, I will highlight the importance of establishing and utilizing a caring support system. Leaning on positive supports such as family/friends/even pets can make a big impact on overall well-being. Don’t forget that Uwill can be with you every step of the way as well. Using resources like Uwill for processing thoughts and feelings is invaluable. Asking for help is not a weakness, it is a strength. We are here to support you.

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

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