We are so excited to welcome Jolene Zaia to our practice and wanted to give you an opportunity to get to know more about her as well, so we asked her a few questions to get better acquainted.
What led you into becoming a therapist?
I became a therapist because I was drawn to helping people find their space in the world. I am passionate about everyone having someone with whom they can share their concerns and release their burdens. Working as a 911 telecommunicator showed me people in their hardest moments, which solidified my desire to become a therapist.
What part of the job do you find most rewarding?
Earning someone's trust is the most rewarding part of my job. I am honored that clients choose to share their stories with me and trust me to help them navigate what they are holding onto.
What part of the job do you find most challenging?
The most challenging part of the job is finding balance in holding space for others' emotions and managing my own emotional expense. Carving out time for my own self-care is a continuous process.
Who are your professional/ personal role models?
My professional role model is the social worker from the high school I attended as a teenager. She became a lifeline for me and helped shape my life goals. I am forever grateful for her guidance and support through high school. My father is one of my personal role models; he is the hardest working person I know and would help you instantly if needed. I strive to be as reliable as he is.
What's a guilty pleasure TV show or movie?
Any coming-of-age TV show on Netflix, like Never Have I Ever or XO Kitty; if it airs I am watching it! (and probably more than once!)
What's the most adventurous thing you've ever done?
This is a tie between shaving my head for St. Baldrick's and hosting two foreign exchange teenagers. When I shaved my head I needed to learn what my identity was without my hair and it became evident I had been using it as a security blanket for a long time. I think it was one of the best decisions I made. I hosted the two foreign exchange students while my husband was deployed and they were only a few years younger than me. I learned so much about patience, kindness and strength through this experience.
Give us two truths and a lie (answer at the bottom of the page**)
I love live music
I played basketball in college
I have been to Europe twice
What are you most looking forward to in your professional future?
I am most looking forward to learning more about the populations I want to work with. Systemic gaps exist in maternal mental health care and veteran/military mental health care, so I am looking forward to helping fill those gaps.
Now that you have learned more about Jolene are you ready to get connected and start your therapy journey? Reach out today to start working with Jolene!
**Answer: Although I enjoyed playing basketball, I stopped playing after high school and showed horses in college!