this week on the blog…
Rockwall Counseling and Wellness would like to take an opportunity for you to get to know Jordan Clipson, one of our marriage and family therapy associates. Jordan is such an amazing asset to our team, and we know her clients are thankful for her expertise and compassion! If you’re interested in booking a session with Jordan, click the link at the bottom of this post to get connected with her!
Tell us a little about your journey to becoming a counselor. Where did you go to school? What are your degrees in? Are you originally from the Rockwall area?
I always had interest in and gravitated towards careers related to social services and ultimately discovered Marriage and Family Therapy in the beginning of college and immediately knew that was the path for me. I graduated from Kansas State University with a Bachelors in Family Studies and Human Services with a minor in Conflict Resolution and Trauma Studies and an additional certification in Conflict Resolution. I then went onto to Oklahoma State University where I earned a Masters in HDFS, Marriage and Family Therapy. I am originally from El Campo, TX though I moved to Paris, TX in middle school and now currently live in Paris.
What type of therapy are you most passionate about? Why?
I am most drawn to working with couples. Everyone deserves a healthy, supportive and loving relationship and it is the greatest honor to assist my clients in creating that relationship for themselves. I love making my sessions a comfortable and even fun environment to discuss the most vulnerable of issues and erase the stigma around couple’s therapy.
If you could have any job besides the one you have now, what would you want to be doing?
I would absolutely be a cosmetologist. They get to spend their day creating long standing relationships with their clients and being creative in their work. It would be much more standing than I do now, but it has always seemed fun and rewarding!
What do you feel the biggest struggle facing your clients is?
For my couples, most always cite communication as their biggest issue. Which makes so much sense, the dynamic in which we communicate impacts every aspect of our relationship (finances, parenting, intimacy, in-laws etc). Though, I find people typically communicate just fine it is empathetic listening that they may struggle with and that may perpetuate problems.
Who in your life do you most look up to? Why?
I look up to my mom the most. She wouldn’t agree, but I feel like she could write a book on parenting because she is so incredible at it. I hope that one day I can be half as empathetic, supportive, fun and guiding as she has been to me.
What would you say to someone who is considering starting therapy, but doesn’t know if it’s worth the time or money?
The thought of starting therapy can be so scary or overwhelming for many reasons, so I would validate having reservations. Therapy is also a big investment for a lot of people. Though, investing in healing your trauma, strengthening your mental well-being, and bettering yourself as a parent or partner may be the best money you ever spend.
Are you a dog person or a cat person?
I am 100% a cat person. I have a big, grumpy white cat named Georgie and he is just the best.
Do pineapples belong on pizza?
Pineapple on pizza is a crime and waste of a perfectly good pizza.
What’s your favorite place to go out to eat in Rockwall?
Ramen Head hands down!!!
What do you like to do in your free time?
I play a lot of golf, spend time with friends and family, love trying new recipes, crochet, pointed pen calligraphy, photography, travel, and recently just became a CASA advocate! Collecting hobbies is my hobby.
What’s your favorite time of year?
Summer! I love the warm weather and spending time by the water.
Tell us a little about your family.
I am one of 5 kids and come from a very large extended family. As well as several close friends that are family. Long term, close relationships are extremely important to me.
What is your favorite place to visit?
I studied abroad in Italy during college and the Amalfi Coast was incredible. The views, the food, the people. Close second would be the U.S. Virgin Islands.
If you could have dinner with one person, living or dead, who would it be and why?
Ruth Bader Ginsburg. I admire her life’s work as an advocate and trailblazer for women.
Are you more introverted, extroverted, or a mixture of both?
I would say I am an extrovert. I love being social and feel energized around others. I love meeting new people and making new friends!