New Year, New Ambitions

For years I have had career ideas floating in my mind on how to share the experience and knowledge I have gained in numerous years as an educator and counselor combined. While I have the platform of sharing ideas via my county's school counselor association K-8 cohort which I co-facilitate, I have been eager to network, learn and share with other counselors on a wider scope.

Recently I was given the opportunity to present at a Legal One conference to do just that - share information, ideas and best practices specific to the role of a middle school counselor. It was an amazing experience which I truly enjoyed and received great feedback on the breakout session I led.

In just a bit shy of a month's time, with much reflection and encouragement from some of my "personal cheerleaders," I decided to create a website and blog to share every day ideas, projects, resources, and even challenges counselors may face in everyday adventures of being school counselors.

Feel free to leave comments or emails with questions and feedback! I'm excited to begin a new path in this career I enjoy so very much! Happy New Year to all!

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Vanessa De Jesus Guzman is an Educator and a Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked with children and families for two decades. Vanessa is the owner and CEO of Free to Be Mindful - a private practice located in Ridgefield, New Jersey.

Vanessa is passionate about helping moms, kids and educators with mindful living, mental health and personal growth through efforts including:

• Host of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast which provides bite-sized tips and guided meditations to anyone working with kids

• Founder of Amiga Moms, a supportive network for 21st century moms offering educational events founded in mindfulness

• Public Speaking and Professional Development for parents, educators and young adults on topics such as mindfulness, building healthy relationships with kids, self care, mental health and more.

Vanessa has been featured on the Today Show, Univision, Parents Latina and more, always sharing her passion of helping others Learn, Grow & Inspire… all with mindfulness in mind.