We are very happy to introduce Erin Houchin, MA. We talked to Erin about their decision to join the Green House and what it means for them.
How did you first learn about the Green House?
I found Green House via google while looking for post-graduate/pre-licensure opportunities in Chicago. I moved here in July after finishing grad school in the spring and wanted a program to help bridge my experience from the academic to professional world.
What drew you to the Green House?
The Green House felt like a perfect match! My graduate program had a psychodynamic foundation, so I was excited to see the emphasis on depth therapy and self of the therapist work. Moreover, the focus on LGBTQIA+, kinky, CNM, and sex worker populations was a huge factor. These are populations I want to continue to work with, the lens through which I approached my studies, and reflect the professional and expert community to which I’d like to belong.
What are you hoping to gain form being in the Green House and how do you imagine it will impact your future?
I hope to learn, grow, and evolve! I imagine the Green House fellowship will deepen and broaden my understanding of counseling as a new professional and expand my knowledge and skills working with a wide range of populations near to my heart. I also hope to create strong mentor and peer connections as a recent transplant to Chicago.
In the short amount of time since you joined the Green House, what has surprised you most and why?
I have been impressed by the intentional, collaborative framework modeled on our kickoff day. We as cohort members were able to collectively establish our hopes and needs from the group experience which helped us get to know each other and also set the stage for our shared experiences to come.
Anything else professionally you are particularly looking forward to this year?
I’m looking forward to the whole experience! To what can’t be predicted, to the surprising challenges that will inevitably arise. Also to the fieldtrips/outings!
View Erin’s therapist profile: