STELLA MALAGON,
INTERN
What’s something you would say to a potential client who’s on the fence about beginning
therapy?
Starting therapy can be very scary and intimidating knowing the fact that you are about to open up to a complete stranger, but it can also be very beneficial. Allow yourself to view your therapy sessions as a time that is being reserved just for you where you will be able to share anything you are comfortable with in a safe, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment. You’ll start to notice the sense of relief you’ll get to experience session by session as you start getting things off your chest. You’ll start learning more about yourself and creating that special connection within yourself. Starting your therapy journey is something so beautiful and something to be so proud of.
What is your favorite part of being a therapist?
Being able to be part of every client’s therapy journey and seeing their growth has to be my favorite. The fact that I get to experience their journey with them is an indescribable feeling. Being able to help guide clients through difficult times and allow them to truly see their potential is such a rewarding feeling.
Where did you go to school? What degree did you obtain from each?
I went to Northeastern Illinois University where I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Justice Studies with a double minor in Child Advocacy Studies and Criminology. I am currently enrolled at DePaul University and will be obtaining my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in a couple months (June 2023).
What’s your hope for each client when they leave your office?
My hope for each client when they leave my office is for them to feel better than how they came in. I want them to be able to feel calm and at peace within their bodies and minds. I also want them to be able to leave with a smile on their face and realize how much progress they are truly making and are capable of making.
Were you involved in any extra curricular activities either in high school or college?
Throughout high school, I was in a couple clubs and was part of a dance team. I used to do ballet, jazz, and hip-hop growing up and still love dancing. Throughout my undergrad years, I was in a sorority where we would spend time fundraising for our philanthropy, which was the American Cancer Society. The sorority that I was in also allowed me to network and create lifetime friendships. Throughout the beginning of my graduate years, I participated in a fundraising organization where I aimed to raise awareness and funds in one whole year by asking for donations in order to support children with pediatric illness being treated at Ann Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital. This fundraising organization then concluded with a 24-hour dance marathon where we honored the patients and their families as a way to celebrate them and all the funds that were raised by everyone in the organization.
How do you practice self-care?
I practice self-care by engaging in breathing exercises, by relaxing in a comfy spot in my room with a good playlist and a calming light projector on that I have, or by hanging out with my dog.
What is an unpopular opinion that you have? (About therapy or about life)
have a lot of unpopular opinions, but I’ll share two. First one, seeing people drink pickle juice out of the pickle jar is terrifying. Second one, yes… pineapple DOES belong on pizza. (:
What is something unique about you?
I’m allergic to cats
I’m lactose intolerant
I’ve gone skydiving