In North Myrtle Beach, 22 students graduated from Webster University with Master of Arts in Counseling degrees, coinciding with Mental Health Awareness month. South Carolina currently ranks 34th in the nation for mental health resources. The graduates emphasized the importance of counseling in creating a safe space for people to be themselves and heal from trauma.
One graduate, Jamie White, was motivated to enter the counseling field after witnessing the lack of mental health resources in the community and experiencing personal struggles with mental health. Her work with young people in foster care and group homes inspired her to pursue counseling as a profession. She plans to continue her work in helping others by pursuing a PHD to further her knowledge and ability to support others.
Another graduate, Aishia Chestnut, was inspired by her own struggles with mental health and the lack of resources available in her community. She hopes to break the stigma surrounding seeking help for mental health issues and emphasize the importance of talking to a counselor. She is currently working at shoreline behavioral health services and plans to continue using her education and experience to make a positive impact on those in need.
Both graduates share the common goal of using their education and experience to make a positive impact on those in need. They hope that their work will raise awareness about mental health issues and inspire others to seek help when needed.
