New Member Spotlight: Rachel Awes

1)    What is your background in psychology (e.g., education)?

I work as a psychologist, speaker, author, and art playgroundist. The common thread through out these is my colorful pursuit of the human heart: to listen deeply for the stunning beauty within, to address what may be getting in the way of seeing the beauty and fully living it out, and to reflect it back to people with spoken and published words, art, and even in my colorful clothing. My education is from the University of Minnesota’s Ed Psych/CSPP program.  I’ve counseled 22 years since then, and am currently in a solo St. Paul private practice.

2)    Describe any involvement in the Minnesota Psychological Association if applicable.

I have enjoyed previously scheduled CEU opportunities and also was at a table with my books at the last annual MPA meeting and enjoyed getting to know some of the wonderful MPA members walking through!

3)    What inspired you to pursue a degree in psychology?

Psychology was my favorite subject in high school and college. I adore deep listening. I treasure relationships where we share our authentic selves. My great joy is met with seeing and forming words for the glorious beauty of the human heart. In short, choosing this degree was a life-giving choice to be who I am.

4)    Why did you join the Minnesota Psychological Association?

A wise friend said, just this week, that in the search for self, you will find everyone. This resonated deeply. It is a statement of living in beautiful community, with empathy. We are alongside each other, interconnected and interdependent, in this glorious messy life. When I discover what is of help, whether practical in nature or aesthetic/food for the soul, I find it incomplete unless I share it. Likewise, with gratitude, I need to receive this from others as well. Thus, I joined MPA.

 5)    What do you hope to learn/gain from your new membership?

I hope for broader access to practical help/resources/knowledge in our ever-changing field, access to and contribution to professional development and education, and overall be part of a network of psychologists who hold one another up to shine and contribute an amazing service to this world.

6)    Any outside hobbies/interests you do not mind sharing?

I am married, have two sons (ages 19 and 17), and love spending time with them and friends. My dearest hobby, which has grown into becoming part of my profession, is my creative life of writing and illustrating. I’ve published two full color books: All I Did Was Listen and Diving In and have a third book releasing with Wise Ink Creative Publishing in April 2016, The Great Green Okayness: A Field Guide to Seeing Your Uncommon Magnificence, endorsed by Henry Emmons, MD (local groundbreaking psychiatrist and author of The Chemistry of Joy and The Chemistry of Calm).  The first and last books are inspired by themes out of my therapy office, and speak of encouraging our astounding human heart. You can see more at http://rachelawes.com

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