MA Counseling Psychology Mental Health Center
- Robert Edinger
- Oct 11
- 2 min read
At 22, I am mature for my age. This has contributed to my dedication to the study of psychology. I am ready for graduate school and up to the rigorous challenge because of my intense motivation and dedication to my chosen field of study.
I hold a BA in Social Studies, with an overwhelming concentration in psychology, from ____ State College. I want very much to continue my education, and I am especially attracted to the curriculum and reputation of ____ University's M.A. Program for Counseling Psychology. 10 years from now I would like to have a PHD and work either in private practice or for a state-run facility as a mental health clinician working with all age groups. Holding the doctoral degree will enable me to gradually assume greater levels of professional responsibility that is commensurate with my professional experience.
I took a year from school after I graduated to gain some work experience. I currently work at ____ Mental Health Center as a Therapeutic Mentor. I work closely with clinicians to develop appropriate treatment plans for me to implement during our secessions. I have been working here since August of 2016. Seeing first-hand the progress and frustrations that come in this field has only strengthened my desire to continue my education so that I will be able to increase what I have to offer to my profession and my community.
My grades do not reflect the fact that I am a devoted student, because of not being able to decide until later in my progress through college what I really wanted to do with my life. Nevertheless, I am a hard worker, and I do have work experience that is directly associated with my career goals. I have a solid idea of what to expect in graduate school in psychology and I am certain that this will enable me to help make society a better place by developing new ways to cope with depression and anxiety. I especially look forward to intensive research in these areas, and I am particularly keen on strategies for alternatives to lifelong medication.
Working at ____ Mental Health Center has opened my eyes to the challenges and opportunities for psychology professionals. Serving as a therapeutic mentor has warmed my heart to the bounteous joys of giving, finding more in oneself because of giving more to others, particularly children. I especially enjoy working closely with other collaborators on each of my cases to assure that we provide the best treatment possible to the client. I take immense pride in developing treatment plans and goals for each client based on their needs and strengths.
Working with clients at home, at school, or out in the community, I always make it a point to stick with the treatment plan to the extent to which it is possible to do so. Towards this end, I have long worked to perfect my communication skills, particularly with respect to conflict resolution, emotional expression, and/or behavior management. I work with parents to develop better ways for them to handle tricky situations with their child and set a positive example in the home and in the community.
Thank you for considering my application to your program.
MA Counseling Psychology Mental Health Center
You emphasize being mature for your age and highly motivated, which conveys readiness for graduate-level study. You outline a long-term vision—earning a PhD, working in private practice or a state-run facility, and serving diverse age groups. This shows ambition and direction. Your role as a Therapeutic Mentor at a Mental Health Center provides practical exposure to treatment planning, collaboration, and client care. You highlight the joy of helping others, especially children, and the pride you take in developing treatment plans tailored to client needs. You mention communication, conflict resolution, emotional expression, and behavior management, which are essential counseling skills. You express interest in depression, anxiety, and alternatives to lifelong medication, which demonstrates intellectual curiosity.