Knowing that you are making a difference (even if it’s the smallest difference for just one person), is one of my greatest rewards in life. That’s why I’m a Crisis Counselor for Crisis Text Line. I’ve always had a passion for helping others because I know how impactful it can be to be heard, and to have someone say “I’m here for you” or “you’re not alone.”

My experience as a Crisis Counselor with Crisis Text Line has been the most eye-opening and empowering experience of my life. To start, you never realize how many people are really out there struggling until you’re on the platform seeing the texters come in. So often, when we go through struggles in life, we think that we’re alone.  The truth is, so many people are here to support you. There are so many people, going through very similar challenges. And, to support people as they go from that “hot moment” and guide them to that “cool calm” is simply one of the most rewarding things to me personally.

Additionally, being a Crisis Counselor has taught me so much. One of the biggest things I’ve learned is the power in not being so quick to give advice when we’re trying to support someone. It can be so easy to jump in and give someone struggling advice, but what’s even more powerful to simply be there and meet people where they are. Especially in a crisis situation, people usually are not looking for advice.  Rather, they simply want to be heard. Becoming a Crisis Counselor has helped me live by the philosophy that everybody has a story. We are all different and everybody has different reactions and feelings to certain events, situations, etc. It’s so important that we understand that each person has a story that is uniquely their own.

Finally, as a Crisis Counselor, I feel like I never stop learning. With every new conversation in addition to working with other amazing Crisis Counselors, Supervisors, and Coaches all who share a common passion and goal, there’s always something new to learn.

In short,  my experience as a Crisis Counselor with Crisis Text Line has been nothing short of incredibly fulfilling. If you love supporting and being there for others, I highly encourage you to apply to become a Crisis Counselor today. I never expected this experience to teach me so many new things and provide me with such amazing opportunities.