Leave a lasting positive impact on people’s lives

What do you do and who are the clients that you work with? 

I am a crisis counselor at a crisis line. Crisis is self-defined; it could be anything from a death in the family, a divorce, drug and alcohol abuse, or even suicidal ideation. When I’m on the line, I provide active listening and support to the callers. I’m a lifeline for that person, hearing them openly, and offering resources and support outside. 

How did you get into this line of work? 

I started in the mental health field 15 years ago.  It sounded really intriguing and like it would put me out of my comfort zone. I was looking to have a challenge.

What do you enjoy about your work? 

It’s emotionally rewarding. It can promote personal growth, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence. 

I think the most rewarding part is when they call, and they are completely at their breaking point, and you are able to talk them off the ledge and get them the support that they need immediately. Listening to the beginning of the call,  compared to the end of the call, when there is some light at the end of the tunnel, that’s what makes it all worth it. It makes me feel really good. It really does. If I can help one person on my shift see a little bit of hope that they didn’t have before, then that’s a great day for me.

I love to help people. This is my passion, this is my calling, this is exactly where I need to be.

What types of skills and qualities does it take to be successful in this field? 

Some personal qualities that would be a good fit for this role are if you have been in a crisis yourself or have had any type of mental issues, as it allows you to better connect with the callers.

Being calm is also huge. It’s not for the faint of heart. You never know what you’re going to get. 

A lot of my calls are just people wanting to talk, not necessarily for you to solve anything, just to hear them out and then by the end, they’re feeling so much better and supported. 

What advice would you give to someone who is interested in getting into the field? 

You can’t predict every single call that you get. Those that do leave happy are getting the support they need and are extremely appreciative. So that definitely outweighs the stress that can come with it. You will have a positive impact on people’s lives and that makes it all worth it.