Chelsea Solorzano M.A. '15
Occupation: Therapist
Chelsea Solorzano M.A. '15 shares her experience at Wheaton and how it prepared her for her calling.
Why did you choose Wheaton?
I learned about Wheaton's Marriage & Family Therapy Program through researching MFT programs at Christian schools. After speaking with the MFT Program Director, Dr. Van Dyke, I was impacted by the program's focus on relationship- including the importance of relationships professionally, personally, with the LORD, and with the faith community. The program's focus on sound clinical training in systems theory, heart for serving, and intentionality in integration of faith and theory all contributed to my decision to attend Wheaton's MFT program.
What skills have you learned from your program?
The MFT faculty taught practical clinical skills in the classroom. They also provided space to wrestle with the complex process of integrating Christian faith and systemic theory. However, time in supervision groups and personal and professional development groups were especially impacting. In these groups, faculty came alongside us students and helped us wade through the sometimes messy process of growing in our understanding of self and others and what it means to truly walk alongside others in relationship. The faculty encouraged us to lean into the process of growth, to be willing to take risks, to be flexible and open, to appreciate differences, to honor the experiences of self and others, and to appreciate the significance and beauty of relationship. I am not the same person now that I was when I first embarked upon this journey, and I am thankful for the personal and professional growth that has already occurred as well as for the growth that still lies ahead. The faculty inspired me with a desire to continue to work and grow outside of the programs well as a passion for walking alongside my own clients in their own respective journeys of growth.
What advice can you give for students who are also considering the M.A. Marriage & Family Therapy Program?
Come with a passion for relationships, a heart and mind open to learning, a sense of curiosity and playfulness, a deep sense of empathy, and a willingness to take risks and lean into the process of growth.
