Q: Welcome to the Relationship Counseling Center of Maryland (RCC), Jasmine! We are excited to have you on staff as a therapist. What has been the most exciting part about working with us and our clients?
A: Everyday is a new adventure – no day goes by that is the same as the previous! I love working with each and every one of my clients and appreciate that they bring something new to the table each day. Also, my co-workers/supervisor create a welcoming and comfortable environment that I can flourish in!
Q: In your style of therapy, do you like to tackle the main issue head-on, or focus on the deeper issues first?
A: My preference is to tackle the situation head on. That’s not to say that we won’t eventually get to the deeper issues, but I like to help clients gain insight as to what is still within their control and ability to change. I believe one process does not have to follow the other. Hopefully that way they can make positive adjustments, while we can begin to delve into the bigger meaning behind their predicament simultaneously.
Q: Have you yourself been to therapy?
A: Of course! I am in therapy now and have been briefly in the past. I think it offers an incredible space to process day-to-day stressors and models new and safe ways to allow yourself to be open and vulnerable.
Q: What was the moment you realized you wanted to be a marriage and family therapist?
A: I knew early on that I wanted to be a therapist, but it wasn’t until college that I was able to identify my preferred career path. Once I learned more about the systemic application of marriage & family therapy, I fell in love. I don’t think our issues manifest from ourselves alone. Everything is connected back to how we were raised and the experiences that shaped us.
Q: What do you like most about working with people?
A: Everyone is unique and complex. I love getting to know each client and hearing their honest opinions and views about life and love.
Q: Outside of being a therapist, what are some of your hobbies or things you do for self-care?
A: In no particular order of preference: painting, reading, journaling, meditation, yoga, crocheting, dancing, going to the gym, book clubs with friends, exploring new restaurants, and going to concerts.
Q: You mentioned attending book clubs. What is one of your favorite reads right now?
A: I’m currently reading Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow written by Israeli author Yuval Noah Harari. A couple of my other favorites include Tiny Beautiful Things, One Day, and The Disappeared.
Q: In your experience, what is the most important thing that can strengthen a relationship?
A: I believe the most important thing that can strengthen a relationship is a person’s willingness to be vulnerable with their partner and their partner’s ability to allow them to feel heard. I really believe this is the core of connection and allows two people to be completely in tune with one another. This, coupled with proper communication, is a recipe for a beautiful relationship!
