11/02/2025
Six years ago, I dressed up as a medical doctor for Halloween. At the time, I was working in a healthcare clinic as an Integrated Mental Health Therapist for children and families. Ironically, I was also three semesters into my doctoral program, preparing to begin my clinical practicum.
Why does that memory stand out today? Because after multiple setbacks—COVID-19 delays during my first dissertation attempt (2021–2022), academic and catalog changes disrupting my second attempt (2022–2023), and navigating an unsupportive long-term situation—I’m finally on track to complete my doctoral degree.
After shifting concentrations and taking leaves of absence (since I’ve already completed every class for both the Clinical and Management concentrations), I’m now progressing through my third and final dissertation attempt. If all goes as planned, I’ll officially graduate in Spring 2026 with my Doctor of Behavioral Health degree in Integrated Healthcare.
So yes—soon, I’ll be “Doctor,” not the MD kind, but the behavioral health kind.
It’s humbling to realize that a vision I once dressed up as—a symbolic projection of my future—is becoming reality. My gratitude goes first to God, for grace and perseverance, and to PrettyWater, for two years of genuine support, encouragement, and belief in me when I needed it most.
The countdown begins.
