Jasmyn Irvin (MA ’19, PsyD 2) shares what her experience at MSP has meant.
My time at MSP began in the Master’s program. For about five years after I finished undergrad, I waffled about whether I would pursue my dream of becoming a Clinical Psychologist. By waffling, I mean I was frozen in fear. Would I be able to get in? Would I even be a good therapist? After a long stint in higher education administration, I decided to face my fear and apply to MSP. Though my work in that field was valuable, I always felt something was missing. My love of the mental health field has always pulled at me. I wanted to do more personally meaningful work for myself and contribute to others. After being accepted, I remember going to my first class and thinking, “This is where I belong. I’ve found my people.” MSP quickly became my happy place. Being part of this community made me realize that my sensitivity was a strength, not a weakness, as I previously believed.
As a master’s student, I grew exponentially as a person and clinician. My fears about being a therapist turned out to be unfounded, and I realized that I was walking in my purpose. Being a therapist, though challenging, was congruent with my intuitive nature. For the first time in a long time, I no longer felt I was missing an essential piece of my puzzle. MSP has been a nurturing place for me to deepen my relationship with myself and further expand my sense of what’s possible for me. I have experienced MSP as a healing place that has helped me answer as many questions about myself as it has created.
As a doctoral student and part-time therapist, I have weathered several personal and professional storms and come out stronger. MSP is a central plot point on my journey to finding my authentic self, something that I try my best to help my clients experience. My education at MSP has enabled me to serve others in a very fulfilling way. I’ve met many clinicians I look up to and have supported me on my ever-evolving journey. I’ve found longtime friends and colleagues here. When I graduate in 2024, I know I will be equipped with the tools necessary to assist clients and future therapists on their paths to conquering their fears and finding peace.
