We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Verenice Hernandez-Herrera. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Verenice below.
Verenice, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
In my journey as the founder and CEO of Wishwell, I’ve had to navigate through the murky waters of imposter syndrome. It’s a feeling many of us are familiar with, but my story has a twist. With over 26 years in education and 20 years as a school counselor under my belt, you’d think I’d be brimming with confidence. But the truth was, I often doubted my own worth and expertise. This self-doubt, I realized, stemmed from a lack of confidence, a trait that didn’t align with who I am at my core. I’ve always been an advocate for empowerment, both for myself and others, and it was time I walked the talk.
I began to see my experiences in education and counseling not just as a career, but as a unique and invaluable bank of knowledge about human behavior, parenting, and mental health. I embraced the fact that admitting when you don’t know something is not a weakness but a strength. It’s what makes an expert, not an imposter. This shift in perspective was transformative. It allowed me to move forward with confidence, using my experiences as a source of strength. In doing so, I hope to inspire others who may be battling their own inner doubts. My message is clear: own your journey, learn every day, and wear your experiences proudly. Imposter syndrome is but a shadow when you step into the light of self-belief and empowerment.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
As the founder and CEO of WishWell Counseling and Empowerment Center, my mission has always been centered around nurturing and empowering kids and teens. At WishWell, we offer both in-person and virtual services, making our support accessible to a broader audience. WishWell is also a very unique service and approach to mental health. We are not your typical therapy or counseling center. What makes our center truly special is WishWell coaches’ life skills. We are a skills-based center. The only proactive service for mental health out there. Our approach is not just about counseling; it’s about creating an environment that feels like a warm hug, a safe haven where kids can explore, understand, and grow.
Our services are deeply rooted in my extensive experience in education and as a school counselor. This background has equipped me with a profound understanding of the challenges and needs of kids & teens. We focus on not just addressing immediate situational struggles but also on building resilience and self-esteem in our young clients. This holistic approach is what sets us apart.
As for what’s new and exciting at WishWell, we’re continuously evolving and expanding our services to meet the changing needs of our community. We are always exploring innovative ways to engage with our clients, whether it’s through new counseling and coaching techniques, workshops, or community events. Our aim is to not just be a center for counseling but a hub for overall empowerment and growth for the young generation. Stay tuned for upcoming events and initiatives, as we are always looking to bring something new and beneficial to our community. At WishWell, we’re not just a brand; we’re a movement towards a more understanding, empowered, and resilient future for our children and teens.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
I can pinpoint three key qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge that have been pivotal. First and foremost, empathy stands out as a cornerstone. It’s the ability to genuinely understand and share the feelings of others, especially the young minds we work with. This quality has been instrumental in connecting deeply with both the children and their families, allowing us to provide truly tailored and effective support. To those early in their journey, I’d say: actively listen, observe, and put yourself in others’ shoes. Empathy grows through understanding diverse perspectives and experiences.
Secondly, expertise in child and adolescent mental health and psychology has been invaluable. Understanding the intricate workings of young minds is crucial in our field. This expertise has helped me and my team to address the specific needs of our clients effectively. For those starting out, my advice is to immerse yourself in continuous learning. Stay on top of the latest trends, and social media app’s, research, attend workshops, and seek mentorship. Knowledge, especially in a field as dynamic as psychology, is never static.
Lastly, resilience is key. This journey isn’t always smooth; it’s filled with challenges that test your patience and determination. Resilience has helped me to navigate these challenges, learn from them, and emerge stronger. To build resilience, embrace failures as learning opportunities, maintain a positive outlook, and don’t be afraid to seek support when needed. You have to be comfortable in the uncomfortable. You have to be ok with failing forward. Resilience is not about never falling; it’s about learning how to get back up every time you do.
These three – empathy, expertise in child and adolescent psychology, and resilience – have been the bedrock of my journey with WishWell. For those embarking on a similar path, nurturing these qualities and skills will not only enrich your professional journey but also the lives of those you aim to empower.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I am always on the lookout for collaborative opportunities, especially as we embark on an exciting new initiative: the WishWell Well-being Network (WWN). This network is designed for like-minded businesses that are trauma-informed or wish to become so. At WishWell, we recognize the critical importance of understanding and addressing trauma in children and teens. This understanding is crucial for any business that works with young people.
We’re seeking to partner with businesses that share our commitment to prioritizing children’s mental health. Whether you’re already trauma-informed or eager to learn, we welcome you to join WWN. As part of this network, WishWell will provide trauma-informed training, ensuring that all members are equipped to identify and support children who may be struggling with mental health issues. It’s about creating a community where every member contributes to a supportive environment for our young clients.
The city of Chula Vista, CA has supported this initiative, recognizing the importance of a network of small businesses committed to this approach. If you’re reading this and feel that your business aligns with our mission, we would love to hear from you. Collaborating with us means joining a movement that places children’s mental health at the forefront of business operations. To connect and explore collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at WishWell at letstalk@wishwellcc.com. Together, we can create a supportive network that truly makes a difference in the lives of children and teens.
Contact Info:
- Website: wishwellcc.com
- Instagram: @wishwellcounseling
- Facebook: @wishwellcounseling
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wishwell-counseling/about/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@wishwellcounseling
- Other: Email: letstalk@wishwellcc.com
