What is career counseling like?
Most clients report that the career counseling process is fun, exciting, and inspiring. You and I will talk about your career aspirations, hopes, and dreams as well as your past job history. Depending on your needs, you will take several career assessments to help determine your specific interests, skills, values, and personality type. This process will enable both of us to have a comprehensive understanding of what you need in your career for maximum fulfillment and happiness. Along the way, I will offer tips, ideas, and concrete steps to help make your career dreams a reality. Together, we will come up with a career action plan to create the life you want.
How long does career counseling take?
Those seeking a significant career change generally see me for an average of 3 to 6 sessions. I also have clients who come in for only 1 or 2 sessions for a specific issue, such as job interview coaching or a quick resume review. I am happy to accommodate your individual needs for a longer or shorter counseling duration.
Can I talk to you first before deciding to come in for career consultation?
Yes, absolutely. I am happy to give you a free 15-minute introductory session before you make a decision about career counseling. Please contact me to set up an apointment. I encourage you to interview different career counselors so as to choose the one most appropriate for your needs.
What kinds of career assessments do you offer? Do I have to take all of them?
I offer my clients a variety of career assessments, including the Myers-Briggs Personality Inventory, the Strong Interest Inventory, Skills Card Sort, Values Card Sort, and the 16 PF. You do NOT have to take all of the career assessments I offer. I will discuss with you which are most relevant and helpful for your needs, so as to save you time and money.
What is your experience?
I have over 8 years of counseling experience and have been in private practice since 2004. I have worked as a career counselor at Merritt College and College of San Mateo. I have also worked as a psychotherapist in diverse settings, including Stanford University Help Center, Community Counseling and Education Center in Fremont, Catholic Charities of San Jose, and Crisis Support Services of Alameda County. Currently, I am a career counselor affliated with the Career Counseling Network at Stanford University. I am also a licensed Marriage Family Therapist with the State of California. The Marriage Family Therapist license requires extensive clinical training and continuing education hours.
Will you help me find a job?
My specialty is helping you find your true calling in life. I will provide assistance and support in your job search and can offer you my expertise in helping you shine in your resume and job interviews. However, I am not a headhunter, recruiter, or job placement specialist. If you are solely looking for help to get you a job, I recommend you seek the services of a job placement specialist.
Do I have to come to your office for career counseling?
It is preferable to work in-person since a few of the career assessments are more easily administered in my office. However, if you are located out of state or out of the country, I can make accommodations for us to work together via phone or Skype.
Do you take insurance?
I am a provider on two plans -- the Stanford University Career Counseling Network and Valley Health Plan.
Eligible Stanford employees can use STAP funds for career counseling. Click here for information about the Career Counseling Network at Stanford.
Eligible Valley Health Plan subscribers can receive counseling through VHP. Click here for information about VHP.
How much do you charge?
I charge $130 per 50 minutes of career consultation. Career assessments are priced separately and are $25 to $30 each. I will discuss with you which assessments are most suitable for your unique situation. You will have full say in deciding which career assessments to take.
During our time together, you will have complete access to my expertise, knowledge, guidance, and mentoring to help you create the life you want. I tailor each session based on your individual needs and am careful to maximize the way we use our time so as to save your money.
Career consulting is an investment in yourself. It may be helpful for you to reflect on the following questions before embarking on a career change:
- How much are you willing to invest in yourself so you can get the career you dreamed of?
- How much are you willing to pay for the right professional help to get on the right path?
What forms of payment do you accept?
I accept cash, checks, PayPal and Master/Visa cards.