u/No-Tooth6240

Hello!

I've worked in tech for some years, and have recently become very sensitive to screens. I have two e-ink screens (Dasung, from China) that I do computer work on now. Cell phone screens give me an instant migraine, and most laptop screens, standard computer monitors, and newer televisions give me headaches. I'm sensitive to some types of lights as well, especially really bright LEDs.

I'm considering going back to school and doing an online degree in preparation for an LPCC license in California. My understanding is the first year or so of the degree will be online, so I can do it using my e-ink screens. In the second year I'll be expected to start internships, which will be in person. Once I graduate, I'll need to do 3000 supervision hours in California, which will also need to be in person (all or in part).

My question is, during my internships/supervision, I'll be working in facilities where I don't have control over the environment, correct? Usually commercial lighting is okay, but if I have to use tablets/laptops/regular computer monitors in these facilities on a regular basis I don't know if I'll be able to do it. Can anyone who has gone through this please comment on what accommodations can look like (e.g. will I be able to bring my own monitor to work)?

My hope is that if I can get licensed I can start a private practice where I can work 1:1 with clients and not have to look at screens at all (except to do billing/notes/etc. where I can use my e-ink monitors). This feels like an ideal job for me, I just don't know if I'll be able to get through the internships/supervision hours.

Thanks!

Hello!

I worked in tech for about 10 years, but my favorite part was always interacting with people during meetings, brainstorming, etc. I'm finding myself less interested in tech as the years go on, and more interested in having real, meaningful conversations with people and helping them navigate the challenges of relationships, trauma, etc. I have no training in this, I just try to listen, help them feel heard, and when appropriate give whatever advice I can think of (which isn't always great).

Anyway, I'm in my mid 40's (male) and am considering a transition into the professional mental health space. I'd like to have some formal training in helping people through their struggles, and if I could make a career out of it I think it would be awesome. I'm going to be joining California's Warm Line as a volunteer shortly, but I was hoping for some book recommendations - ideally I will read the book and either be convinced that being a therapist (likely LPCC in California) is for me, or isn't for me. I understand it will be 2-3 years of grad school and another 2-3 years of supervision in preparation to be licensed.

Please give your top book recommendation only! Thanks 😄