by J. Michael Blackston, M.A.
This month Sarah Born joined our team after graduating from Reformed Theological Seminary. She lives in the Lake Nona area and has a heart to provide soul care in this growing area of Central Florida. I had a chance to ask her a few questions so you can get to know her more.
Michael: How did you become interested in becoming a counselor?
Sarah: I can think of a number of opportunities over a period of years that culminated in me pursuing this profession. Part of my interest grew while I was in college from a year of working in the Dean’s Office and another year as a Resident Advisor on campus. These opportunities really peaked my interest in working with people. After college I spent two years as a Professional Advisor for over 600 college students. Many of my conversations during this time revolved around their personal struggles, plans, hopes and disappointments in addition to academic planning. Additionally, significant people in my life encouraged my interest in becoming a counselor. But I think it was really my own personal counseling experience that solidified this as my own personal vocation. It is such an honor to sit with people, often during some of the most difficult seasons in their lives, and extend care and offer hope.
Michael: Congratulations on graduating with your Master’s degree last month. Share a highlight and a challenge from your two-year experience.
Sarah: One of the highlights from the past two years was working alongside my classmates in the clinic. There was always a sense of support and encouragement. The program was also challenging because it really threw off the routine that my husband and I were so used to. I spent many late nights in the clinic and I don’t think we ever quite adjusted to that change in our schedule.
Michael: How would you describe your counseling style and approach in working with your clients?
Sarah: I’m trained in a relational style of counseling. I believe the relationship between the counselor and the client is considerably important for contributing to therapeutic change. I am passionate about a counseling environment that provides the client space to begin to speak honestly about their life.
Michael: Tell me about your heart for the Lake Nona area.
Sarah: Three years ago my husband and I moved to the Lake Nona area to be close to my husband’s new employer, Wycliffe. We never imagined we would plant ourselves here long-term. However, three years have gone by and now we can’t imagine living anywhere else. As I started the counseling program I was aware that there were NO counselors on a full-time basis in the area. I was sure that by the time I graduated someone would have opened a counseling office, but no. This provides a really exciting opportunity for me to offer a needed service in Lake Nona. I value being connected to and contributing to the community where I live. I look forward to continuing to build partnerships with pastors, churches and other organizations in the area as we seek to serve Lake Nona together.
Michael: What do you enjoy doing for fun?
Sarah: I love cooking with my husband, beach trips or just an evening hanging out with friends and family. I also enjoy playing with my pup, Winston.