Intern Spotlight: Justin
This summer we’re highlighting our Counseling Interns. Masters-level interns are an important part of our work to train the next generation of Christian clinicians as they offer affordable counseling to clients. Get to know Justin Higgins!
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I have lived in Edgewood, Maryland since 1993. I am the middle child of five siblings. I’m reflective and serious, yet I am tender toward others. I am creative too, expressing myself through collages, poetry, creative writing, and meaningful conversations. As a self-proclaimed “oddball” of my family, I have come to develop greater love for myself by depending more on Jesus, and learning to become self-aware.
What was your journey to becoming a counselor?
When I was younger, I constantly heard how psychology was evil, so in many ways I feel like God has led me on this path to a much different relationship with psychology. I worked at Regal movie theaters for 10 years, and when I was fired and I knew I needed a change. I considered youth ministry, but a friend suggested I would be more effective in a counseling role. A year later I took my first psychology class and fell in love with it. Since then, I’ve been on the track to becoming a counselor.
Favorite musical artist?
Twenty One Pilots. The way they talk about life, relationships, doubt, stress, love, anxiety, status, existentialism, and religion speaks to me.
Favorite food?
Tacos and breakfast foods such as french toast, cream of wheat, and eggs are my go-to’s. I’m willing to try anything, especially if it smells good and allows for conversation with another person.
Favorite movie?
Right now my favorite movie is The Last Letter From Your Lover on Netflix. It gives hope to the “hopeless romantic” in me. It also stars my favorite actress, Felicity Jones, and it’s a fun, well-acted movie to watch.
What do you do for fun?
Go for walks
Read YA fiction and other books that help me grow
Write poetry and stories
Hang out with people I love
Visit museums
Watch YouTube
Watch movies
Describe your approach to counseling.
An empathetic approach where I allow the client’s story to lead the session. I want to understand their world and point of view so that I can kindly and gently guide them where they would like to go.
What elements or areas of counseling are you most passionate about?
I really love the uniqueness of every client’s story. Nobody has a “boring story” and helping clients to see that is truly helpful. Being able to help clients affirm who they are. Many people have been talked down to and told what they think does not matter. Allowing a client the time and space to express themselves and their thoughts without judgment is truly important to me.