THIS WEEK ON THE BLOG…
We are thrilled to introduce you to Kaci Pullin. Kaci is another one of our LPC-Associates being supervised by Lauren Smith LPC-S. Kaci loves working with adolescents and young adults as well as teaching clients about the importance of nutrition in supporting mental health. We are so glad to have Kaci as part of our team, and we know she will continue to make a positive impact in people’s lives for many years to come.
Tell us a little about your journey to becoming a counselor. Where did you go to school? What are your degrees in? Are you originally from the Rockwall area?
I attended Collin College for my Associate’s degree, then transferred to Southern Methodist University where I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. I also completed my Master’s degree in Counseling at SMU. I was born and raised in Rowlett, TX and I currently live in Wylie, TX.
What type of therapy are you most passionate about? Why?
I’m most passionate about working with adolescents and young adults as they navigate the unique challenges, changes, and choices that arise during the period of transition between childhood and adulthood. Because adolescence is ripe with change, it can often be a period of considerable stress. I aim to provide a welcoming space for teens to process their emotions and learn skills to successfully manage stressors.
If you could have any job besides the one you have now, what would you want to be doing?
I’d want to be a dietician, helping people understand how they can utilize food and nutrition to promote physical and mental health, prevent and manage illness, and lead healthier, longer lives.
What do you feel the biggest struggle facing your clients is?
One of the biggest struggles facing my clients is getting stuck in unproductive, negative thinking and behavior patterns.
Who in your life do you most look up to? Why?
I have such admiration and respect for my maternal grandfather. He lived a life in service to others; he served his country in the military for 20 years, volunteered in his community and church, and was a pillar of strength and wisdom for his family. He passed away in 2016 but I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to know him.
What is one piece of advice you would give your younger self?
Strive for progress and growth, not perfection.
What would you say to someone who is considering starting therapy, but doesn’t know if it’s worth the time or money?
When I’m struggling with decision making, I like to do a cost-benefit analysis. Grab a sheet of paper, create two columns, and list out potential costs alongside potential benefits of starting therapy. Consider how important – or how much significance – each of these costs and benefits have, given your circumstances. My guess is that the benefits of therapy will outweigh the costs!
Are you a dog person or a cat person?
Dog person all the way! I have a 6 year-old goldendoodle named Charlie; he adds so much joy to my life!
Do pineapples belong on pizza?
For me personally, no! I’d rather have all the veggies on my pizza.
What’s your favorite place to go out to eat in Rockwall?
My favorite meal of the day is breakfast, so my go-to restaurant in Rockwall is Book Club Café!
What do you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy taking Charlie on long walks, tending to my many houseplants, baking and cooking new recipes, and going to the lake with my husband and family.
What’s your favorite time of year?
Fall! I love when the leaves begin to change colors and the air is brisk.
Tell us a little about your family.
I am an only child. I’m extremely close with my parents; we see each other for weekly dinners! I’ve been married to my husband for 2 years; he works in finance and loves to fish.
What is your favorite place to visit?
I love visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. It feels like a quaint, coastal European town but you don’t need a passport to visit; the scenery is just beautiful!
If you could have dinner with one person, living or dead, who would it be and why?
Rich Roll. I listen to his podcast weekly; I’m inspired by his story of recovery and admire how he uses his platform to facilitate conversations on all things health, fitness, nutrition, art, entertainment, entrepreneurship, and spirituality.
Are you more introverted, extroverted, or a mixture of both?
Introverted.