14. Finding Your Authentic Self and What Makes Your Fire Burn (ft. Justin Givan, LCSW)

This week Karen learned more about the challenges of trying to take vacation time when you’re a solo private practitioner. Punchline: it’s always a nightmare. And, while there are a few things you can do to make it less awful, it’s crucial to just anticipate that you won’t be able to just ‘pick up where you left off’ with your clients when you return. After that bummer of an intro, we’re sharing our absolutely delightful interview with Justin Givan! He’s a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Simpson College, Indianola and a Master of Science in Social Work from University of Texas at Austin. Justin currently works as a Senior Behavioral Health Specialist at a medical health facility, but his journey to his current position has been one full of twists, turns, moves, and profound insights! From a Midwest theater kid with aspirations to teach choral music, to a cruise ship and cabaret performer, to a business management major, to Texas to study social work, and then through residential treatment, group practice, and EAP counseling, among others -- it really seems like this guy has done it all. With Justin we really get into the importance of being authentic and figuring out “what is going to make your fire burn” because it’s so relevant to career decision making and even preventing the dreaded burnout. Justin has some critical advice for those considering being in private practice as the gold standard of counseling achievement, and some tips for how to examine your wants and needs effectively. Resources mentioned: The Velvet Rage: Overcoming the Pain of Growing Up Gay in a Straight Man's World by Alan Downs, Ph. DThe Celestine Prophecy: An Adventure by James RedfieldMore Than Two: A Practical Guide to Ethical Polyamory by Franklin Veaux and Eve Rickert (Note: there is also an updated, second edition published Sept 2024!Colors of Austin Counseling group practice: https://www.colorsofaustincounseling.com/ Thank you for listening! To support the show and receive access to regular bonus episodes, check out the Therapy Tea Patreon community https://www.patreon.com/TherapyTeaPodcast.Follow us on social media: Facebook: Therapy Tea Podcast https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552953196482 Instagram: @therapyteapod https://www.instagram.com/therapyteapod/ Thoughts? Questions? Email us at [email protected] (And, if you’re reaching out to recommend a guest, please write “Guest Suggestions” in the subject line.)Disclaimer: This podcast is not therapy and does not establish a professional, therapeutic counseling relationship. All statements made on this podcast by hosts and guests are their individual personal perspectives only and are not necessarily shared by anyone else. The hosts and guests on this podcast are not speaking on behalf of all mental health professionals or the profession as a whole.