;)
So, all of us talked after we got off the phone with you and the consensus is every time we talk to you, we completely feel confident we can do this and make the business side of this successful! Thanks for offering this service. It is so invaluable to us as interns just starting to build our business. 3 Fabulous Pre-Licensed People
"I'm the dinosaur you were so patient with at the CAMFT conference this weekend, the one who is already on the cloud and didn't even know it. Thank you for your help and suggestions. After talking to you, I have so much more confidence that I've been searching videos on You Tube for Google first page strategies. It is all rather mystifying, but thanks to you, I'm gving it a shot. I had an intuition that just meeting you would be a transformative experience for me. In fact, whenever I turn on my computer now, I talk trash to it, and it doesn't talk back! It glares at me, though. Thanks again. Your're the greatest! Larry"
"There were several things I learned in our short visit! First off: Trackyourhours.com seems like a great way to know where I am in the process of completing my hours…this is something I am considering. Secondly, I appreciate learning about the book, Theory Based Treatment Planning for MFT’s; this seems to be an important aspect to passing the exam. And thirdly, I took to heart the advice of gearing my clinical supervision toward grading myself in terms of the categories that I will be tested for the BBS exam." Aida, California
"Before the meeting I was feeling very confused. I almost cancelled because I was frustrated with the fact that I didn't know anything that I thought I should after graduating. I learned that there is a lot more available in our area than I originally knew about. I learned that there is a lot of support and individuals out there in the same position that I am. I also learned that doors have opened for me since I have graduated.--I was excited when I left your office. I felt like I wanted to do everything that you suggested at once. Honestly I felt like a professional when I left. Outside of family and friends I haven't been feeling like I made an accomplishment since graduating, but now I feel like I have some avenues that is going to change that for me.--For me I felt like the session went very well. Your personality was a good fit for me. I didn't feel intimidated or overwhelmed. I felt like I could ask questions and that you were giving me straight answers." Ashley, Central Valley, CA.
"Prior to the phone call, I was feeling a little anxious, anticipating a “miracle” study process (which I KNOW doesn’t exist). I was also feeling hopeful that someone objective could “hear” me and help. What I gained was concrete study tips and visual references, i.e. youtube. Mantra suggestions was great and I am going to post it across from my desk in my home office, so I can see it. Afterwards, I felt a little more hopeful, that “I can do this!” Andrea, California
How were you feeling prior to our talk? "Overwhelmed, anxious, isolated regarding my concerns, fearful." What were the most important things you "got" during the talk? "Perspective, I also felt that my process was "normal" for the most part, and that I WILL achieve my goals. I also felt supported and understood as a professional in this field." How did you feel after we spoke? "Less anxious, motivated, clear minded and thoughtful." What could I do to improve my services? "Hmmm, that's a hard question. I suppose I can only say that I really like your direct approach and I could have handled more of that, it was very helpful and it got me thinking more clearly-fast." Anonymous, California
"Before we met, I was feeling a little anxious about what to present. When I left your office I felt really confident about my abilities as a therapist and was looking forward to begin work on my private practice. I really got a lot of great information for a first meeting and was impressed with how you were able to guide me from one topic to the next, based on your expertise and knowledge of the field.
As I left our meeting, I felt confident in my abilities as a therapist, but surprisingly less fearful of the business plan aspect of everything!" Annette, California
"Your knowledge of Marriage and Family Therapist written clinical vignette study programs and your perspective and insight of the stress of the test and test preparation were valuable. The talk helped
me to make a decision on which test materials would be the best fit for me. After we talked, I felt motivated to get going on my test preparation and inspired by your modeling of a business consultation
approach." Sharon, California
"I was feeling lost, confused, overwhelmed (before our talk). I learned some strategies for being more effective with clients in my private practice from connecting with clients to improving my website to how to talk to clients on the telephone to inspire greater confidence in them. The most important thing I learned is to remind myself that this is where I belong and to connect to my higher purpose in doing this work. After our talk I felt calmer, more confident."
Update from Laura: "My practice is doing very well. I am basically full with the hours I have available and I also lead a group. I get 1-4 calls per week with folks who want to see me and I am having to refer them out to other therapists b/c I don't have enough time right now to expand my practice. Let me just say that the coaching you provided me with was life-changing. My confidence and my practice skyrocketed after our two coaching sessions. I'd be happy to write you a testimonial or serve as a reference anytime!" Laura, California.
"Miranda, I thought your input was invaluable....so I would encourage others studying for the exam to get your assistance." Barbara, Woodland Hills, CA
"I will remember Miranda's professionalism, energy, and optimism." Katie, Modesto, CA
"Love the confidence you instilled in making the process do-able!" Sarah Modesto, CA
"The time between degree and licensing has so many twists and turns. Miranda was able to provide me with tips about how to get the most out of my internship experience and maximize my time. Miranda encouraged me to advocate for individual and group supervisionto collect my hours faster, which I found to be highly beneficial, italsoallowed me to have the viewpoints of not only licensed professionals, but my pre-licensed colleaguesas well. Before I even finished my hours, Miranda talked to me about how to begin preparing for licensing exams.
Based on her knowledge of different studying programs, Miranda was able to suggest a study program that was right for me. We also discussed how to take care of myself physically and emotionally in the days leading up the exam. I even went to get a massage to help myself relax. Miranda's pep talk prior to the exam was so encouraging. She talked to me about taking a break, breathing deeply, and chair stretches if needed to refocus and this WORKED for me. I really appreciated how Miranda shared what worked for her and respected and integrated my spiritual beliefs into the talk. I passed my written on the first try!
Prior to entering both tests, I prayed that no matter if I passed or not Iwould continue to be of service to my God in whatever capacity he sees fit for me. After I passed thewritten, I studied for the WCV, prayed again prior to entering the test site and did not pass. Unfortunately the timer did not start and no amount of relaxing could refocus this frazzled test taker. I was doomed almost from the start. You reminded me thatGod hasa plan for me. I don't think you said it like that but that it is what I heard. I am also really grateful that you talked to me about how complicated, confusing the tests are without bashing the whole testing process. It is what it is. My God has a plan for me.This is a frustrating process to say the least but itin no way negates my effectiveness as a therapist intern. Miranda talked to me about when to begin studying again and encouraged me to RELAX throughout this whole process. Thank you foreverything". Kelley, Sonora, CA
"I called Miranda to find a group of study-partners so that I can get some positive feedback on my study skills and my thought process for taking the Written Clinical Vignette exam. This will be my fourth time studying for the exam. When I scheduled the call, I was feeling a little excited about having some direction. I have absolutely NO desire or willpower to study or pick up the study materials, so I thought this would be a good way to get started again.
As we talked, I realized I need to focus on the anxiety and deal with this test-trauma that has overwhelmed me and focus on the emotions tied up with taking this exam.Inow understand the anxiety has been the one obstacle that has stopped me from retaining and "giving back" the information to complete this exam.I tried to sweep the anxiety under the carpet but have realized it's still there and will be with me. My most important thing to do right now is focus on a different script and STOP playing the negative one I've been listening to. Thank you Miranda for your time and for redirecting me toward a more positive and worthwhile centerpoint. I should be taking the exam in July and will be contacting you when I pass!" Deborah, Southern California
"ThankyouSO much for the wonderful information you are providing for all of us Interns still in the 'trenches.' You Rock!" Mari Lee, Pasadena, CA
"Tracking hours and figuring out what the BBS wants is the hardest part of my profession. I love my work as a MFT Intern, but the paperwork is overwhelming. At those times I feel like I am going to go crazy, Miranda helps me figure things out and makes me feel validated and supported. Finally, someone has put together a great information and support option for those of us who are still in the process of collecting hours and trying to navigate a complicated, confusing system." Cheryl Modesto, CA
"I LOVED the study group. I was new to the area and had no idea of what the experience would be like. I assumed that if I studied hard, I'd pass. I felt really alone when I failed the clinical vignette exam. That exam was recalled a couple months later but by then by anxiety had risen and my self worth had plummeted. Joining the group changed my whole perspective. I read about others and what they had experienced and gained the confidence to keep trying to the point of taking the exam on as a challenge to get through!" Barbara, Woodland Hills, CA
| "This talk helped me to recognize where I currently am in the process and the steps I need to take in order to reach my goals. I'll remember the helpful steps provided. It really helped decrease some of the anxiety." Danielle, Turlock, CA |
"I loved the talk and was able to see the entire picture after graduating." Lara, Turlock, CA.
"Miranda is a dynamic, caring, person who will empower you to achieve your goals. Whether it is in her position as coach or therapist, you have a thorough professional at your disposal."
"Her MFT workshops are wonderfully informative and if you are trying to complete your license process, her connections are essential." Dr. Lin Myers, California State University, Stanislaus.
"The one most important thing I got out of our discussion was my new belief that this is actually do-able FOR ME!! You broke up the start up process into smaller parts or task THAT ARE NOT EASIER FOR ME TO APPROACH and move upon." Bettie, Modesto, CA.
"I was impressed with the prompt list serve responses from Miranda, as well as the warm encouragement, and the valuable information presented in her emails. I think Miranda provides a stellar service and it is my pleasure to offer my highest recommendation. Miranda is a valuable asset to our MFT community. She provides a unique and important service in supporting fellow clinicians in their journey and it is my pleasure to have worked with her." Mari Lee,http://marileetherapy.com
"The most important message I took away from our consultation time was the importance of me focusing more on the process of my studying vs. continuing to ramp up on the content. In particular, I like how you addressed how important it will be for me to deal with addressing the "amygdala-based" emotional stuff relating to my previous traumatic experience with the exam.
I feel like I have some new direction and motivation after we chatted. Ever since then, I've been coming up with testing-taking techniques/approaches/methods that will help me gain a better sense of calmness and control to (hopefully) contain all the emotions that I'm sure will surface when I set foot in the test center." Deb
"Your knowledge of Marriage and Family Therapist written clinical vignette study programs and your perspective and insight of the stress of the test and test preparation were valuable. The talk helped me to make a decision on which test materials would be the best fit for me. After we talked, I felt motivated to get going on my test preparation and inspired by your modeling of a business consultation approach." Sharon.