A Career Change Support Group for Therapists

My Career Shifts: Navigating Professional Transitions & Change

I’m not someone whose career has followed a predictable path. I have experienced 3 significant career changes that have uniquely shaped me professionally. In 1995, I made a surprising leap from my training and early career in psychology into the business world. Then, in 2011, I received an unexpected offer for my dream job, a leadership role at a graduate training program, and left private industry for the world of higher education. Recently, an unforeseen change of events steered me away from private practice ownership and clinical work toward a new path in consulting.

Each career change had its own dramatic arc. All three brought unique challenges to my self-image, identity, and sense of confidence. And, these career transitions challenged me to let go of seeming certainties to embrace the unknown.

With career shifts came risks – big risks. In each situation, I found myself a beginner in an unexplored realm. There were fears, doubts and losses as well as new learning, amazing relationships and surprises. The positive aspects of career switching have encouraged integration of past experiences and the expansion of my sense of self. And even in the ways I failed or fell short, I became more whole as a result of switching careers.

By navigating professional transitions and career changes, I have deepened my ability to question assumptions (especially about my abilities, creativity and courage). I have grounded myself in my inner wisdom and learned to trust myself. I have had to make hard decisions and move forward without all of the information, skills or resources I would have liked. I have learned more about how I learn best. And I have come to see these career shifts as big adventures. That framing has enriched my understanding of how careers shape identity and of how dreams shape careers.

Drawing from my own career changes, I created Career Shifters – an in-person support group helping psychotherapists navigate their next professional move.

Introducing Career Shifters: A Career Change Support Group for Therapists

Reach out here if you are interested in join the next virtual Career Shifters Support Group.

Are you feeling the pull to move beyond the world of psychotherapy?

• You’re looking to pivot to a therapy-related role like teaching or writing
• Considering a move into a leadership, administrative or management role
• Planning to embark on a completely new career
• Easing into semi-retirement

Whatever your journey, change can be both exhilarating and daunting.

Benefits of Professional Support Groups

Support groups, like Career Shifters, provide a unique and invaluable opportunity for helping professionals to navigate career transitions.

• Connecting with peers facing similar transitions provides emotional support, reduces isolation, and sparks momentum.
• Through collaboration, we share insights and strategies while gaining fresh perspectives on our decisions.
• Research shows career support groups reduce stress, clarify goals, and improve decision-making.
• In a structured environment, members process transitions together, building resilience while expanding networks and achieving successful career changes.

Is a Career Change Support Group Right for You?

If you’re contemplating significant career change—cutting back your clinical hours, pivoting to other opportunities, moving on to greener pastures, or even going back to the drawing board—Traction Pods are for you. Whether you’ve decided or are still considering options, you’ll find support and inspiration among peers making similar changes.

Questions? Contact Cindy here or email: cindy@trawinskiconsulting.com