Intern Spotlight: Shelby
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 Shelby Baker!
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am one of the Counseling Interns and have been blessed with the opportunity to be a part of the biblically-minded environment here at CCCRD. I recently moved to New Jersey with my husband and have loved getting to be closer to family. Family is very important to me and I care deeply about the people that God has placed in my life. Something that is very exciting in my life right now is that my husband and I just celebrated our first year of marriage!
What was your journey to becoming a counselor?
I felt called to be a counselor after losing my mother when I was in middle school. I have a passion for being able to empathize and care for those going through difficult life changes. It is a joy to walk alongside my clients as they grow more into the people that God desires them to be. Before joining CCCRD, I was a substance abuse counselor for three years where I got the opportunity to closely walk alongside those desiring to be free from the chains of addiction. I think that it is so important to love others as God loves us because you never know the struggles that are going on in their hearts.
Do you have any pets?
I currently have two cats, Theodore and Samison, and both have very different personalities! It has been super fun getting to see them bond with our foster kittens.
Favorite food?
I am a big foodie and love a variety of foods. I would say my current my favorite is Chicken Bryan with pasta.
What do you do for fun?
I really enjoy watching a good reality TV show and spending time with my family. Recently, I started fostering kittens which has been a super fun and adorable way to spend my free time.
Describe your approach to counseling.
My approach to counseling is person-centered because each person is unique. I focus on being able to be present with each client in their struggles while processing through how to fully embrace the emotions that God has given us. I am very passionate about using DBT with my clients because it can normalize challenging emotions and thoughts in a way that fosters growth.
What elements or areas of counseling are you most passionate about?
I am most passionate about being able to empathize and connect with each of my clients in a way that displays the love of Christ. Counseling provides such a unique opportunity to see into some of the most challenging parts of one’s life and it is a gift to be a part of.
Any advice for someone considering counseling?
Counseling is hard but it is so worth it to be able to grow and learn how to cope with challenges.