My Journey Through Education and Therapy

It's not always easy to share my personal stories, yet I find strength in vulnerability. My therapist once told me, “We overcome by the testimony of others.” This profound insight has inspired me to open up about my journey, particularly as it relates to my latest endeavor in teaching, where I also bring my experience as a therapist. It’s a pivotal moment, not only for my career but also for my personal growth.

Despite holding multiple degrees and certifications, I often battled feelings of inadequacy. I questioned my intelligence, beauty, role as a wife, and abilities as a mother. Through my own counseling journey, I unearthed the root of these feelings, which is why I believe my story is essential to share. As a therapist, I understand the importance of addressing underlying issues and strive to model this for my students.

Many parents, myself included, tend to replicate the disciplinary methods of previous generations, often opting for rigid and harsh approaches. Reflecting on my elementary school years, I vividly remember struggling to focus. Each year began with the same painful ritual: report cards filled with “F”s accompanied by notes from teachers urging me to “work harder” and “stay on task.” I now realize I was doing my best yet lacked appropriate support. This lack of understanding impacted my self-esteem and led to a damaging internal narrative that insisted I wasn’t smart enough.

As I navigated adulthood, I eventually learned that I have Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). This diagnosis helped me understand that my brain functions differently, requiring tailored strategies to thrive. With this knowledge, I have reshaped my approach to education for myself and the students I teach.

In sharing my story, I aim to illuminate the importance of compassion and understanding in education and therapy. My experiences have equipped me with a unique perspective that I bring into the classroom and my practice as a therapist. I am passionate about creating an environment where every student and client feels valued and supported, particularly those who may struggle as I once did.

By emphasizing God's goodness through our stories, we can foster a sense of community that encourages growth and healing. My commitment to this mission drives me to be a better educator and a more empathetic therapist. In my journey, I have learned that we can all overcome our challenges, especially when we share our stories and support one another.

As I step into this new teaching role, I carry my past lessons, ready to make a difference. I believe that my experiences as both a therapist and educator will inform my teaching style and resonate with my students and clients, helping them recognize their potential. Together, we can create a nurturing space where learning is embraced and every individual's unique journey is celebrated.

Taneka M. McCoy, MSRC, LCMHC