Meghan E. DeClerck
Welcome!!
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Career connection in counseling and psychology involves intentionally linking academic training, clinical experiences, and professional identity to meaningful work that serves diverse populations. Through engagement with mentors, professional organizations such as the American Counseling Association, and real-world practice opportunities, emerging professionals translate theory into practice while building networks that support lifelong growth and ethical service.
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Ethics are foundational to counseling and psychology, guiding professionals to prioritize client welfare, autonomy, and dignity in every interaction. Grounded in standards such as the American Counseling Association Code of Ethics and the American Psychological Association Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct, practitioners are expected to maintain confidentiality, practice within their competence, and obtain informed consent. Ethical decision-making also requires ongoing self-reflection, cultural humility, and awareness of power dynamics within the therapeutic relationship. By adhering to these principles, counselors and psychologists foster trust, promote justice, and support the well-being of diverse individuals and communities.
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Emotional intelligence is essential in counseling and psychology, as it enables professionals to recognize, understand, and regulate their own emotions while accurately perceiving and responding to the emotions of others. By strengthening skills such as empathy, self-awareness, and interpersonal effectiveness—concepts popularized by Daniel Goleman—counselors build therapeutic rapport, model healthy emotional regulation, and foster meaningful client growth.
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Social justice in counseling and psychology involves actively addressing systemic inequities and advocating for equitable access to mental health care for marginalized communities. Guided by frameworks such as the American Counseling Association Advocacy Competencies and the American Psychological Association Multicultural Guidelines, professionals work to challenge oppression, promote cultural responsiveness, and empower clients within their broader social contexts.
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Self-care is a professional and ethical responsibility in counseling and psychology, ensuring that practitioners maintain their well-being to provide competent and effective services. Consistent with guidance from the American Counseling Association and the American Psychological Association, counselors and psychologists engage in reflective practice, boundary setting, and restorative activities to prevent burnout and sustain long-term professional effectiveness.
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Projects in psychotherapy and counseling—such as case conceptualizations, treatment planning, and clinical writing—demonstrate the integration of theory, research, and applied skills. Through evidence-informed approaches grounded in models like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy, these projects reflect professional growth, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate effectively in clinical practice.
My name is Meghan DeClerck and I am a Bachelor of Science Psychology major at Southern New Hampshire University, with an emphasis in Counseling. My academic journey is rooted in a deep commitment to understanding human behavior, promoting emotional well-being, and supporting individuals in navigating life’s challenges with resilience and self-awareness. I am particularly passionate about integrating evidence-based psychological practices with holistic approaches to mental health.
Ethical practice is central to my professional identity. I value integrity, confidentiality, cultural humility, and informed consent, and I am committed to upholding the ethical standards of the counseling profession. I believe that trust is the foundation of the therapeutic relationship and strive to create safe, inclusive spaces where individuals feel respected, heard, and empowered.
Emotional intelligence plays a significant role in both my academic and professional development. Through my studies and life experiences, I have cultivated strong self-awareness, empathy, and interpersonal sensitivity. I recognize the importance of attuning to clients’ emotional experiences while also maintaining appropriate boundaries and reflective practice. My ability to listen deeply and respond with compassion allows me to foster meaningful and supportive connections.
I am also dedicated to advancing social justice within the field of psychology. I believe mental health care should be accessible, equitable, and culturally responsive. My work is guided by an awareness of systemic barriers and the impact of social, cultural, and economic factors on psychological well-being. I am committed to advocating for marginalized populations and engaging in ongoing education to ensure my practice remains inclusive and informed.
In addition to my academic background, I bring over 20 years of experience teaching yoga, grounded in Eastern philosophy and mindfulness traditions. My study of yogic principles, meditation, and contemplative practices has deeply influenced my understanding of the mind-body connection. This foundation enriches my approach to counseling by integrating holistic wellness, breathwork, and self-regulation strategies alongside psychological theory. Eastern philosophy has shaped my appreciation for balance, compassion, and the interconnectedness of all individuals.
Self-care is both a personal value and a professional priority in my development. I actively engage in reflective journaling, mindfulness practice, continued yoga study, and ongoing professional growth to maintain balance and prevent burnout. I believe counselors must model healthy coping strategies and prioritize their own well-being in order to serve others effectively.
As I continue my education and professional training, I am committed to lifelong learning, ethical service, and fostering growth in those I support. My goal is to become a counselor who integrates scientific knowledge, emotional intelligence, and holistic wisdom to empower individuals toward healing, self-discovery, and meaningful change.