Just published my 100th blog post!

When I started writing about my journey as a counselor-in-training, I wasn’t sure where it would lead. A hundred posts later, I’m reflecting on what I’ve learned about writing and showing up with intention.

This milestone gave me the chance to look back on where I started, what’s surprised me along the way, and why I still write today.

Read the full post here: https://roqueneto.com/2025/04/15/one-hundred-blog-posts-later/

Textbooks shape how we see ourselves in the counseling profession. When they fail to reflect our identities, they send a message about who belongs. I wrote about that.
Read the blog: https://roqueneto.com/2025/04/08/my-case-for-representation-in-counseling-textbooks/
#Counseling #DiversityInEducation #RepresentationMatters #CounselorEducation #CounselorInTraining #MentalHealth #Textbooks

Spring quarter has begun, and I have passed the halfway point in my counseling program at Palo Alto University. This term, I’m focusing on Residency II, Child and Adolescent Counseling, and Crisis and Trauma Counseling while also applying for practicum and internship placement.

Read the full update here: https://roqueneto.com/2025/04/01/spring-quarter-begins-residency-ii-crisis-counseling-and-the-road-to-internship/

This quarter deepened my understanding of addiction, psychopharmacology, and the complexity of mental health care. From attending an AA meeting to studying psychotropic meds, each experience reinforced the value of meeting clients where they are.

As I prepare for practicum, I’m reflecting on how these lessons will shape my approach as a future counselor. Read more in my latest blog: https://roqueneto.com/2025/03/04/understanding-recovery-and-medications/

This blog post offers insights into how #caffeine can affect our mental health, what the DSM-5-TR says about it, and why it is important for us to understand these impacts: http://roqueneto.com/2024/05/14/from-beans-to-buzz-a-look-at-caffeine-intoxication/

#Addiction
#MentalHealth
#Coffee
#HealthyLiving
#DSM5TR
#CounselorInTraining

As the 2024 election approaches, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by stress and uncertainty. In my latest blog post, I share my thoughts on navigating election anxiety, finding hope, and the importance of self-care during this time. Voting is not just a right. It is a responsibility. I hope you will join me in taking care of our mental health and making our voices heard.

Read the full post here: http://roqueneto.com/2024/10/29/election-anxiety-stress-hope-and-self-care/

I’m sharing a beautiful blog post written by Edelysse Lopez, sharing her inspiring journey from Biology major to Clinical Mental Health Counseling student at Palo Alto University. At 40, she reignited her passion for learning and helping others, and her story shows that it's never too late to chase your dreams!
Read her full post here: http://roqueneto.com/2024/10/08/guest-post-my-pau-journey-by-edelysse-lopez/

I’ve just wrapped up my third quarter at Palo Alto University’s counseling program. From the complexities of diagnosing with the DSM-5-TR to exploring human development, this quarter was the heaviest yet.

I’m grateful for the collaborative spirit of my classmates and the guidance from our professors. Together, we’re preparing to make a meaningful impact in the lives of our future clients.

Check out my latest blog post: http://roqueneto.com/2024/06/11/my-third-quarter-in-the-counseling-program/

In this post, I explore how my journey as a counseling student has transformed my experience of therapy from the client’s chair. Whether you are a fellow student, a practicing therapist, or someone interested in mental health, I hope you will find my insights relatable.

http://roqueneto.com/2024/05/21/how-studying-counseling-changed-my-perspective-as-a-client/

Your thoughts and feedback are always welcome. Let’s continue the conversation about mental health and the journey of becoming a therapist.

I’m thrilled to introduce a guest post by my classmate Brandi Williams. Her journey to the Counseling program at Palo Alto University is inspiring and brings hope to those seeking to impact their communities.

From bartending to pursuing the role of a social justice-oriented counselor, Brandi’s story is a compelling read that I’m proud to share: http://roqueneto.com/2024/04/30/guest-post-my-path-from-hospitality-to-counseling-by-brandi-williams/

Check out my new blog post: http://roqueneto.com/2024/03/19/the-power-of-self-reflection/

As we navigate the complexities of life and career, hope remains essential. In my latest blog post, I explore the transformative power of hope in counseling, its impact on resilience, and its role as the cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship. Whether you are in the field, in training, or simply interested in the power of hope, this piece offers insights into the silent promise we all carry within us.

http://roqueneto.com/2024/02/27/thinking-about-hope/

I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences with hope in your own journey.

As my second quarter in the Counseling program wraps up, we have moved from theory to the hands-on practice of therapeutic skills and tackled the nuanced world of ethical dilemmas counselors face.

From the foundational ethical principles to the complexities of informed consent, this journey is shaping how I will think and act as a future counselor.

In this blog post, I discuss the challenges, the tools we use to navigate them, and the ongoing learning that’s shaping my path forward.

You can check my newest post here: http://roqueneto.com/2024/02/20/a-peek-into-the-legal-and-ethical-foundations-of-counseling/